Guacamole is ripe avocado mashed with lime, salt, and a few fresh add-ins like onion and cilantro. The best versions are simple and balanced, with enough acid and salt to bring the avocado to life. This method gives you a fresh dip in just a few minutes.
What you'll need
- Ripe avocados
- A lime
- Salt
- Onion
- Cilantro (optional)
- A chili or jalapeno (optional)
- A bowl and fork
Step by step
- Choose ripe avocadosPick avocados that yield to gentle pressure but are not mushy, which means the flesh is soft enough to mash.
- Scoop out the fleshHalve each avocado, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl with a spoon.
- Mash to your likingUse a fork to mash the avocado, leaving it chunky or making it smooth depending on your preference.
- Add lime and saltSqueeze in fresh lime juice and add a good pinch of salt, then taste and adjust.
- Stir in the extrasFold in finely chopped onion, cilantro, and chili if using, mixing just until combined.
- Taste and serveCheck the balance of salt and lime, adjust if needed, and serve fresh with chips or as a topping.
Handy tips
- Add lime juice early, as the acid slows browning and brightens the flavor.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface if storing, to limit contact with air.
- Taste as you go; guacamole almost always needs more salt and lime than you expect.
FAQ
How do I keep guacamole from turning brown?
Browning comes from air exposure. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface or add a thin layer of lime juice on top before refrigerating.
How do I ripen avocados quickly?
Place them in a paper bag at room temperature, adding a banana or apple to speed it up. They usually soften over a day or two.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It is best fresh, but you can make it a few hours ahead if you cover it tightly against air. Give it a stir and a squeeze of lime before serving.