Name: The BEST Guacamole
Prep time: PT-487722H46M20S
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: ½ small red onion, finely diced; Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp); ¼ tsp sea salt flakes, plus extra to taste; 2 large avocados (or up to 3 if preferred); 1 small Roma (plum) or truss tomato; 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves and soft stems; 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This guacamole strikes the ideal balance of creamy avocado, fresh lime zing, and a hint of heat. Quick to make and deeply flavorful, it’s a go-to dip or side that never fails to impress. Plus, those quick-pickled onions soften harshness and elevate the overall taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ small red onion, finely diced
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
¼ tsp sea salt flakes, plus extra to taste
2 large avocados (or up to 3 if you prefer)
1 small Roma (plum) or truss tomato
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves and soft stems
1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced (optional)

Directions

Place the diced red onion in a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the lime juice and the salt. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes—the quick “pickle” mellows the onion’s bite.
Meanwhile, halve the avocados, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a separate bowl. Mash gently with a fork until chunky with some creamy texture.
To prepare the tomato for best results, cut it in half lengthwise and gently scoop out its seeds and watery pulp with a small spoon—this avoids a soggy guac. Lay the tomato halves cut-side down, slice into thin strips, then turn and dice into small cubes.
Add the tomato, finely chopped coriander, diced jalapeño (if using), remaining lime juice, and the pickled onion to the mashed avocado. Fold everything together gently. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or lime juice if desired.
Serve immediately with corn chips, or use as a topping for tacos, nachos, burrito bowls, enchiladas, or quesadillas.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Serves 4 as a dip; adjust up to 6 depending on portion size
Prep Time: ~10–15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Variations

Spice Customization: Omit jalapeño for a milder version or add chopped serrano or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
Tomato Substitutes: Use cherry tomatoes—halved or quartered—for a pop of sweetness and color.
Herb Alternatives: Swap coriander with finely chopped parsley or omit entirely if you’re not a fan.
Creamier Texture: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or crème fraîche for added creaminess.
Add-Ins: Stir in diced mango, roasted corn, or pomegranate seeds for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: To slow browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate. Consume within 1–2 days.
Reviving: Stir in a little fresh lime juice and top with a sprinkle of chopped tomato before serving again to refresh the flavor.

FAQs

Why “Quick-Pickle” the Onion?

It softens the sharp bite and adds a subtle tang without overpowering the avocado’s flavor.

Can I Skip the Tomato?

Yes—but tomato adds moisture and freshness. Without it, you may want to add a splash of extra lime juice.

How Do I Keep Guacamole From Browning?

Press cling film directly onto its surface and refrigerate promptly. The lime juice helps with preservation, too.

Is It Better Chunky or Smooth?

That’s personal preference—this recipe leans toward chunky, but mash more if you like it smoother.

What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lime?

You can use lemon juice as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.

What’s the Best Way to Serve It?

Serve fresh with corn chips, or as a topping or side for Mexican dishes like tacos, nachos, and burritos.

Can I Make It Ahead?

Yes—make it up to a day ahead, store it properly, and keep tasting and adjusting the lime or salt before serving.

Is It Vegan and Gluten-Free?

Yes, this guacamole is naturally vegan and gluten-free—just confirm your chips or sides are compatible.

How Do I Adjust for More Guests?

Simply scale up the ingredients proportionally and ensure proper coverage to slow browning.

Why Not Use Garlic?

Garlic can overpower guacamole’s fresh flavors. If you’d like, use a half clove of minced garlic sparingly to taste.

Conclusion

This guacamole is your ticket to vibrant, creamy, and perfectly seasoned delight. With minimal effort and fresh ingredients, it elevates every meal—snack or feast—with zesty, bright flavors. Enjoy it immediately, and watch it become a favorite crowd-pleaser, every time.