Homemade Guacamole Recipe
Homemade Guacamole Recipe is a simple and tasty dip perfect for any occasion. It's creamy avocado mashed up with fresh lime juice, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and a little bit…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Homemade Guacamole Recipe is a simple and tasty dip perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy avocado mashed up with fresh lime juice, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and a little bit of salt and pepper to keep things flavorful. The chunky, fresh textures combined with the bright, zesty taste make it such a crowd favorite.
I love making this guacamole whenever friends come over because it’s so easy and you can tweak it just the way you like it. Sometimes I add extra garlic or a pinch of chili flakes to give it a little kick. The best part is that it comes together in just minutes, and you know exactly what’s going into it, which feels so much better than store-bought versions.
My favorite way to enjoy this guacamole is with crispy tortilla chips on a cozy evening at home, but it’s also fantastic on tacos, burgers, or even just spread on toast. Every time I make it, there’s a little bit left over to snack on later, which is never a bad thing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Ripe avocados are the heart of guacamole. Look for ones that yield slightly when pressed gently. If you can’t find ripe avocados, try waiting a day or two at room temperature before using.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice keeps the guacamole bright and helps prevent browning. If lime isn’t available, lemon juice works, but lime gives the best authentic flavor.
Tomatoes: I like using Roma tomatoes because they’re firm and less watery. If you want, you can skip tomatoes or swap in diced mango for a sweet twist.
Onion: White onions add a sharp taste without overpowering. Red onions are a good substitute if you want a slightly sweeter flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a herbaceous touch. If you don’t enjoy cilantro, try fresh parsley, though it will change the flavor somewhat.
Jalapeño (optional): Great for a little heat. If you want it milder, remove the seeds before adding. For more spice, try serrano peppers.
How Do You Get the Perfect Guacamole Texture and Prevent Browning?
Mashing avocado is all about personal preference. Use a fork or potato masher to mash gently so you can control whether it’s chunky or smooth. Avoid over-mixing to keep some texture.
- Add lime juice right after scooping avocados to slow down browning.
- Store guacamole airtight with plastic wrap touching the surface. This reduces air contact to keep it vibrant longer.
- If your guacamole browns, just scrape off the top brown layer to reveal fresh green underneath.
Simple steps like these help you enjoy fresh-tasting guacamole without worry about it going brown too quickly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining all your ingredients in one place without spills.
- Fork or potato masher – lets you mash avocados easily to the texture you like.
- Knife – sharp for dicing tomatoes, onions, and chopping cilantro cleanly.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace tidy and safe while prepping ingredients.
- Lime juicer (optional) – squeezes fresh lime juice quickly and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist that balances out the creaminess.
- Mix in crumbled queso fresco or feta for a salty, tangy flavor boost.
- Stir in some roasted corn for a crunchy, smoky touch I love in summer.
- Try adding chopped bacon for a smoky, savory version that’s great for party dips.
How to Make Homemade Guacamole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup finely chopped white onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This guacamole recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy—no cooking needed! Just chop, mash, mix, and it’s ready to enjoy right away.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Cut each avocado in half and carefully remove the pit. Scoop the creamy flesh into a medium mixing bowl.
2. Add Lime Juice:
Pour the fresh lime juice over the avocado to keep it bright green and add a fresh, tangy flavor.
3. Mash the Avocados:
Use a fork or potato masher to mash the avocado to your liking. You can leave it chunky for texture or mash it smooth, depending on what you prefer.
4. Mix in the Veggies and Herbs:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, and fresh cilantro to add freshness and flavor.
5. Season and Spice it Up:
Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want a little heat, gently fold in the finely chopped jalapeño.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your guacamole a taste, and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if you want a bolder flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately with tortilla chips for dipping, or use as a delicious topping for tacos, burgers, or salads. If you’re not eating it right away, cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressing against the surface to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
Can I Use Frozen Avocados for Guacamole?
Yes, you can! Just thaw the frozen avocados completely in the fridge or at room temperature before mashing. Keep in mind the texture might be a bit softer, but the flavor will still be great.
How Long Does Guacamole Stay Fresh?
Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh but can last about 1-2 days in the refrigerator. To keep it from browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and store it in an airtight container.
Can I Make Guacamole Ahead of Time?
You can prepare it a few hours ahead, but it’s best to add the tomatoes and cilantro closer to serving to maintain their fresh texture. Always cover it tightly to slow down browning.
What Can I Use Instead of Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or leave it out altogether. The guacamole will still be delicious but with a milder herb flavor.