Guacamole is a “go-to” dip for parties, game days, or as an appetizer. It’s creamy, tangy, and best of all, it’s really easy to make. The best Guacamole recipe should be simple, made using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and doesn’t contain unnecessary ingredients such as mayonnaise or sour cream.
Is Guacamole Healthy?
The main component of Guacamole is Avocados. Avocados are a great source of fiber, healthy fat, minerals, and several vitamins; it offers many health benefits to the heart and skin and help with weight management, among other health benefits. (1)
- Heart-healthy fats: Avocados are full of fat called (Oleic Acid). Oleic Acid is considered to be one of the good fats that have been linked to several heart health and fat loss benefits. (2)
- High Fiber Content: The high fiber and good fat content in avocados makes you feel full for longer which in turn helps with weight loss. (3)
- Essential Vitamins: Vitamin C & E, are considered to be Antioxidants that play a major role in keeping your heart and circulation healthy! (4)
Can Guacamole be bad for me?
Guacamole is usually served as a dip with tortilla chips or a topping for tacos and burritos that contain fatty meat; these foods have a higher caloric density and are full of carbohydrates and unhealthy fats.
To avoid high calories and unhealthy fats, try dipping vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers instead of chips. Also, avoid adding sour cream or mayonnaise to your Guacamole. It’s just not right!
Homemade Guacamole is fast, easy to make, and healthier than store-ready Guacamole, containing preservatives and artificial flavors.
Best Guacamole Recipe Ingredients:
- Avocados: Ripe but firm and not mushy.
- Red Onions: Adds crunch and savory flavor.
- JalapeΓ±os (optional): JalapeΓ±os add a bit of heat that I really like! You can also use Serrano peppers for an even stronger kick.
- Cilantro: Adds freshness and is a staple of the Mexican cuisine.
- Fresh Lime and Lemon juice: Both add a tangy taste and bright flavor.
- Ground Cumin: Enhance the flavor.
- Sea salt: To taste.
How to choose Avocados to make the best Guacamole?
Picking the right Avocados can make or break your Guac! Look for ripe Hass avocados ( Dark brownish green and bumpy skin); they have a creamier texture than the green Avocados (Bright and shiny skin).
Gently squeeze the Avocado; it should feel soft but firm, not mushy. If it was too hard, then it’s not ripe yet, and if it was too soft, it’s probably too ripe and will be mostly brown on the inside!
How to Make the Best Guacamole recipe?
- Dice the red onions and jalapeno and finely chop the Cilantro.
- Slice each avocado in half and carefully remove the pit. Use a spoon to scoop it into a large bowl.
- Mash the Avocados with a potato masher (affiliate link) or a fork to reach your desired consistency (chunky or smooth).
- Add the diced onions, jalapeno, chopped Cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime and lemon juice.
- Mix all together.
Tips to prevent Guacamole From Turning Brown:
- Make it directly before serving; as Avocados are like bananas and apples, they start to oxidize (turn brown) as soon as they are exposed to air!
- Use Acids: Lemon juice and lime juice are part of this recipe. The acid is essential to prevent the oxidation process.
- Keep it away from air! Use an air-tight container, and put a layer of plastic wrap directly over the surface to keep the air away.
How to store the Guacamole?
Store in an air-tight container for up to 3 days. Use an air-tight container and cover it directly with a layer of plastic wrap over the surface to keep the air away.
I don’t recommend freezing the homemade Guacamole because it will change into brown even if it is well sealed, plus the onion will be watery and, the taste will change.
What to serve with Guacamole?
- Tortilla Chips.
- Sliced Veggies, such as carrots or bell peppers.
- Tacos and Burritos.
- Pita Chips