Guacamole
Creamy, chunky, and bursting with bright lime and fresh cilantro. This classic Mexican avocado dip comes together in under 10 minutes with just a handful of simple ingredients. Perfect as a party starter with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos and nachos.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prep the fresh ingredients.
1.Dice the tomato: halve, scoop out seeds, and finely chop.2.Finely mince the onion and jalapeno.3.Roughly chop the cilantro leaves. - prep · ~2 min
Cut and scoop the avocados.
1.Halve avocados lengthwise, remove the pits.2.Score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern while still in the skin.3.Scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.TIPTo safely remove the pit, whack it gently with the heel of a chef's knife, twist, and lift it out. - mix · ~2 min
Mash the avocado.
Add lime juice and salt to the avocado. Mash with a fork to your desired consistency — leave some chunks for a rustic texture or mash smooth for a creamier dip.
- mix · ~1 min
Fold in the remaining ingredients.
Add the diced tomato, minced onion, jalapeno, cilantro, black pepper, and cumin powder to the mashed avocado. Gently fold everything together until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice.
TIPDon't overmix — a light hand keeps the guacamole fluffy and the add-ins distinct. - serve
Serve the guacamole immediately.
Transfer to a serving bowl. If not serving right away, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning, then refrigerate for up to an hour.
TIPA thin layer of lime juice or water on top also creates an air seal to keep it vibrant green.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use avocados that yield to gentle pressure for the creamiest texture.
- 2Remove the tomato seeds to prevent the guacamole from becoming watery.
- 3Smash a quarter of the avocado first, then fold in the rest for ideal chunkiness.
- 4Add salt early to help break down avocado fibers and boost flavor.
- 5For extra zing, let the minced onion and jalapeno sit in lime juice for 5 minutes before adding.
- 6Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning for up to 2 hours.
- 7Serve in a stone molcajete to keep it cool and add rustic flair.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Chipotle
Replace jalapeno with 1-2 teaspoons of minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. Great for those who prefer a deeper, earthier heat.
Mango HabaneroMango Habanero
Swap the tomato for 1/2 cup diced mango and use habanero instead of jalapeno (remove seeds for less heat). Adds sweet tropical flavor that balances spicy heat.
High ProteinHigh-Protein
Fold in 1/2 cup of cooked black beans or crumbled queso fresco for added protein and heartiness without sacrificing the classic guacamole texture.
VeganVegan
This recipe is already vegan. To enhance, replace the pinch of cumin with smoked paprika and add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocados are packed with monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins from other ingredients.
High in Fiber
A single avocado provides about 10 grams of fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full longer.
Packed with Antioxidants
Tomatoes and cilantro supply lycopene and quercetin, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
Low in Added Sugar
This guacamole relies on natural flavors from fresh produce and spices, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed gently near the stem end—they should feel like the palm of your hand, not rock-hard or mushy.
