The Best Guacamole Ever!

Try my recipe for the best guacamole ever—bursting with fresh flavors, a little heat, and the perfect balance of creamy and zesty.

I’ve included some tips to help elevate it to the next level!

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe Hass avocados (the key to a creamy guac!)
• 1 medium tomato, finely diced (remove the seeds for less moisture)
• 1 small red onion, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (depending on your love for garlic)
• 1-2 fresh jalapeño peppers, deseeded and minced (use more for heat)
• 1 lime (juice only, fresh is essential)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, but adds that essential flavor)
• Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon, adjust as needed)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (a pinch)
• A pinch of ground cumin (optional, but it adds depth)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds a smoky undertone)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the avocados:
   • Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash gently with a fork, leaving it a bit chunky (you can also use a potato masher for smoother consistency if you prefer).
2. Add the fresh ingredients:
   • To the mashed avocados, add the diced tomato, onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Gently mix to combine.
3. Season:
   • Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. Add salt, pepper, cumin (if using), and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
4. Taste and adjust:
   • This is where you get to make it just right! Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning: add more lime juice for acidity, more salt for balance, or more jalapeño for extra heat.
5. Optional extras:
   • If you want a unique twist, fold in a handful of pomegranate seeds or finely diced mango for a touch of sweetness. These ingredients add color and a burst of flavor.
6. Finish with cilantro:
   • If you’re using cilantro, stir it in at the very end to keep it fresh.
7. Serve immediately:
   • Guacamole is best served fresh, so enjoy it right away with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Tips:

• For the perfect consistency: Mash the avocados to your desired texture. If you like it creamy, mash a little more. If you like it chunky, leave bigger pieces.
• Lime trick: To keep the guac fresh longer, store the pit from one of the avocados in the mixture. While this doesn’t stop browning completely, it helps slow it down.
• For more flavor: Try roasting the jalapeño before adding it to the guacamole for a smokier kick.
• Storage: Put into an air tight container, cover the guacamole with plastic wrap then secure the container lid. This helps to keep air out and prevent the guacamole from turned brown.