The Best Guacamole Recipe

Dr Victoria -

In pursuit of an authentic guacamole recipe that’s both fresh and creamy, nutritious, and bursting with flavor? You’re in the right place!

This is your guide to creating the best homemade guacamole, inspired by a recipe I observed being made at a Mexican restaurant in the Distillery District in Toronto.

It’s not only a quick and easy dish but also packed with nutrients that support skin, hair, and nail health!

Why I Love This Recipe

This creamy and authentic guacamole is a perfect blend of avocado with the tangy, zesty flavors of lime and fresh tomatoes. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet it elevates any meal with its rich flavor and vibrant colors, much like a classic guacamole recipe.

As it's such a delicious recipe that utilises a range of fresh ingredients I used to make it several times a week when I first qualified as a doctor and worked long and exhausting hours at the hospital. I would often serve it with corn chips and that would be sufficient to fill me!

Fresh and Flavorful

The combination of ripe avocado, fresh cherry tomatoes, and lime juice creates a chunky guacamole that’s refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats, this salsa adds a burst of flavor that everyone will love.

A Nutrient-Packed Dish

Easy guacamole not only tastes amazing, but it also provides a range of health benefits. The ingredients are loaded with vitamins and minerals that support healthy skin, hair, and nails, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious.

The Best Guacamole Recipe Ingredients

  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
    Adds a sharp flavor that complements the creaminess of the guac.
  • 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
    Provides a sweet and tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the guac.
  • 1 lime, juiced
    Adds a zesty, fresh taste that enhances all the other flavors in the guac.
  • 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
    The star ingredient among the guac ingredients, offering a creamy texture and healthy fats. Ensure you use ripe avocados, characterized by a darker green shell and slight softness when pressed.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
    Enhances the flavors and adds a touch of spice.

Method

1. Prepare the Base

In a food processor or chopper, combine the chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh lime juice. If you are out of limes you can use a lemon or lemon juice in this step.

Pulse a few times until the ingredients are well combined but still slightly chunky. You don’t want to puree the mixture entirely, as some texture is key to making an authentic guacamole.

2. Mash the Ripe Avocados

Using a pestle and mortar, add the ripe avocado and mash it until it’s creamy and smooth to create your homemade guacamole. The mortar and pestle help to release the oils in the avocado, making the guac extra creamy.

3. Combine and Season

Transfer the mashed avocado to the tomato and onion mixture. Gently fold the avocado into the mixture and give it a good stir until everything is well incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste, adjusting as needed. If you like a bit more of a kick to your guac, depending on your heat preference feel free to throw in some chopped chilli.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the creamy avocado salsa to a serving bowl. Eat guacamole with your favorite tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or any dish that could use a fresh, flavorful boost.

Top Tips

  • Customize Your Salsa: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeño or chilli or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the guac.
  • Make It Chunky or Smooth: Adjust the texture of the salsa to your liking by controlling how much you pulse the onion and tomato mixture. For a chunkier salsa, pulse less, and for a smoother consistency, pulse more.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and freshly squeezed lime juice. This simple guacamole recipe emphasizes the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients, which will make a noticeable difference in the taste. Red onion can be substituted for a white onion.

Health Benefits of Creamy Avocado Salsa

This authentic guacamole isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly beneficial for your skin, hair, and nails:

  • Avocado: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados help improve skin health and reduce inflammation. They are also high in vitamins E and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Additionally, avocados contain biotin, which promotes healthy hair and nails.
  • Red Onion: Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, which help reduce inflammation and support skin health. Sulfur is a key element in producing keratin, a protein that contributes to the strength and elasticity of hair and nails.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, cherry tomatoes help boost collagen production and protect the skin from sun damage. The antioxidant lycopene in tomatoes also improves skin texture and reduces wrinkles.
  • Lime: High in vitamin C, lime juice aids in improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Vitamin C is also crucial for collagen production, which supports the strength and elasticity of hair and nails.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Unripe Avocados: Make sure your avocado is ripe but not overripe. An underripe avocado will be too firm and won’t mash smoothly so please allow the ripening process to take place. An overripe avocado can turn mushy and affect the guac's texture.
  • Over-Pulsing the Ingredients: Be careful not to over-process the onion and tomato mixture, as you want the salsa to have some texture. If it’s too smooth, it may lose its vibrant and fresh appeal. Following a traditional guacamole recipe, it's essential to make an onion paste before adding ripe avocados to ensure a flavorful and smooth guacamole while avoiding raw onion chunks.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, assuming 2 servings)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.6g
  • Carbohydrates: 15.6g
  • Sugars: 3.9g
  • Fiber: 7.1g
  • Protein: 2.4g
  • Sodium: 8.7mg (without your added salt!)

Frequently Asked Questions - Traditional Mexican Guacamole Recipe

Can I Make Guacamole Ahead of Time?

Yes, but avocado tends to brown when exposed to air. To prevent this, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocado before refrigerating it. This will help keep it fresh for up to 1 day.

Can I Add Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salsa by adding ingredients like chopped cilantro, minced garlic, or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

How Can I Keep the Avocado from Browning?

Besides the lime juice, which naturally helps prevent browning, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container with a thin layer of lime juice on top or press plastic wrap directly onto the guacamole's surface.

What Are the Best Ways to Serve This Salsa with Tortilla Chips?

This easy guacamole recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it with tortilla chips, spread it on toast, use it as a taco topping, or even as a garnish for grilled meats. It's can make an excellent accompaniment to a party spread!

How Long Does This Salsa Last in the Fridge?

This salsa is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. After that, the avocado may start to brown, although it will still be safe to eat.

Enjoy this nutrient-packed traditional guacamole as a delicious addition to your meals, and share the recipe with friends and family who are looking for a healthy and tasty treat!