Guacamole is a popular dip made from mashed avocados, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and lime juice. Its creamy texture and zesty taste make it a favorite among Mexican cuisine lovers.

The origins of guacamole can be traced back to the Aztecs who were said to have used mashed avocados as a base for many dishes.

Later, the Spaniards who arrived in Mexico during the 16th century were introduced to guacamole and they took it back to Spain where it became popular among the wealthy.

Today, guacamole is enjoyed all over the world and is often paired with tortilla chips or used as a condiment for burritos, tacos, and burgers.

It’s also considered a healthy option thanks to the numerous health benefits of avocados including their high fiber and healthy fat content that can help with weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease.

This pairs well with Mexican tostadas, tacos, black bean burritos, Pico de Gallo, tortilla chips, and many more Mexican recipes.

Why you will love this recipe:

1. It’s simple and easy to make – with just a few ingredients, you can have delicious homemade guacamole in minutes.

2. It’s packed with flavor – the combination of creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and spicy jalapenos creates a taste explosion in your mouth.

3. It’s versatile – guacamole can be used as a dip, a topping for grilled meats or fish, or even as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients Explained

1. Avocado – a fruit that is rich in healthy fats and fiber, and gives a creamy texture to the guacamole.
2. Onion – adds a sharp and pungent flavor to the guacamole.
3. Tomatoes – fresh and juicy tomatoes give a tangy and slightly sweet taste to the guacamole.
4. Cilantro – fresh herb that adds a bright and fresh flavor to guacamole.
5. Lime Juice – adds acidity and tanginess to the guacamole while also preventing browning of avocados.

Additional ingredients that can be added:
– Garlic: adds a strong and pungent flavor to the guacamole.
– Jalapeno: adds a spicy kick to the guacamole.
– Salt: enhances the flavor of all other ingredients in the guacamole.
– Black pepper: adds a slight spiciness and complements the flavor of other ingredients.
– Sour cream: smooths out the texture and adds a subtle tanginess.

How Long Does Guacamole Last?

Guacamole typically lasts about 2 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, it’s recommended to freeze the guacamole mix without adding any garnish or tomatoes, as these may break down when frozen and thawed.

To store guacamole in the fridge, transfer it to an airtight container and press plastic wrap onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent oxidation. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze guacamole, place it in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag, making sure all excess air is removed. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

To defrost frozen guacamole, transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw slowly overnight. Do not thaw it on the counter or in the microwave, as this can lead to uneven thawing and texture changes.

Once defrosted, stir the guacamole and add any desired fresh ingredients (such as diced tomatoes) before serving. Try to consume thawed guacamole within 1-2 days for best quality.

Method	Duration
Fridge	2 days.
Freezer	Not advised – but you can freeze guacamole for 2-3 months if you use freezer bags and extra lime.

Health Benefits

Guacamole is a delicious and healthy snack that is easy to make and packed with nutrients. The key ingredients of guacamole, avocado, tomato, onion, lime juice, salt, and cilantro all provide a variety of health benefits.

Avocado is a rich source of healthy fats, fiber, vitamins C, E, K and B6, folate and potassium. According to a study from the American Heart Association, including avocados in the diet can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, decrease blood pressure, and reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, including lycopene, which has been shown to reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, as well as enhance skin health. Onions contain prebiotic fibers that nourish the gut microflora, which is essential for good digestion, and have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

Lime juice is a good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation, boosts the immune system, and promotes skin health. Cilantro contributes to the herb’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the risk of certain diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Sources:

1. “Avocado consumption lowers bad cholesterol and reduces risk of heart disease,” American Heart Association, 2015.

2. “Tomatoes and Cardiovascular Health,” American Society for Nutrition, 2012.

3. “Onions and Other Allium Vegetables and Cancer,” National Cancer Institute, 2021.

4. “The Surprising Health Benefits of Cilantro,” Verywell Health, 2019.

Recipe Variations

1. Chunky Guacamole: This variation involves mashing ripe avocados with lime juice, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced garlic until it is thick and chunky.

2. Spicy Guacamole: Spicy guacamole is made by adding chopped jalapeños, serrano peppers, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.

3. Garlic Guacamole: This variation uses more garlic in the recipe to give it a more intense garlic flavor.

4. Fruit Infused Guacamole: By incorporating fruits such as mango, pineapple, and peach, fruit-infused guacamole is a refreshing twist on the classic recipe. The sweetness from the fruit pairs excellently with the creaminess of the avocado.

5. Bacon Guacamole: This variation adds cooked bacon crumbles to add a smoky and savory flavor to the recipe.

6. Greek Yogurt Guacamole: Greek yogurt is substituted for sour cream in the recipe to create a healthier variation of guacamole.

7. Salsa Guacamole: This variation mixes in your favorite salsa to add extra texture and flavor to the recipe.

8. Cream Cheese Guacamole: Cream cheese is used instead of the traditional ingredients of sour cream or Greek yogurt to create a creamy and tangy texture that pairs perfectly with the avocado.

9. Guacamole with Cotija Cheese: Cotija cheese is used as a topping or mixed-in ingredient to add a salty and tangy flavor to the guacamole.

10. Guacamole with Corn: Adding in corn to guacamole adds a sweet crunch that pairs well with the avocado flavor, and also adds color to the dish.

What To Serve With

– Tortilla or corn chips
– Sliced vegetables, such as carrots, cucumber, celery, or bell pepper
– Pita or naan bread
– Crackers or crostini
– Tacos, burritos or quesadillas
– Grilled meats or seafood
– Scrambled or poached eggs
– Nachos or loaded fries
– Margaritas or other cocktails