Guacamole, a simple mashed avocado dip, is originally from Mexico, dating back to the Aztecs, where it was revered for its high vitamin and fat content. Avocados, which were originally mashed with a type of mortar and pestle called a molcajete to make guacamole, are rich in lots of healthy ingredients including vitamin C, E, B6, potassium, and heart healthy mono-unsaturated fats, so there's no reason to feel guilty when enjoying some rich, creamy guacamole with your favorite Mexican food.
Guacamole is delicious as a dip for tortilla chips, as a filling for fresh tortillas, and as a topping for tacos, burritos, and tostadas. With the ability to calm down spicy foods, it's a natural with a wide variety of Mexican dishes and is even delicious spread on a turkey sandwich. Guacamole is so easy to make, there's no reason not to enjoy it often. I've gathered a couple of my favorite easy guacamole recipes here for you to enjoy.
The key to these easy guacamole recipes is using perfectly ripe avocados. You'll want to use Hass avocados, the dark greenish brown kind with the rough, bumpy skin. Check for ripeness by gently pressing the avocado with your thumb. If there is no give, the avocado is not ripe enough. If there is a little give, the avocado is ripe and perfect for your guacamole. If there is a lot of give and it squishes beneath your thumb, the avocado is probably past ripe and already turning brown inside.
Remember to use these easy guacamole recipes only as a guide, and to season it to suit your tastes and preferences. Feel free to adjust the amounts and add or delete ingredients as you see fit. However, the one ingredient that shouldn't be left out is the fresh citrus juice, since in addition to providing bright flavor, it helps prevent the guacamole from turning brown. And don't over mash the avocados - the best guacamole is slightly chunky.
****************************************
Easy Guacamole Recipe
3 ripe avocados
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup diced red or white onion
2-3 jalapeno or Serrano chiles, stemmed, seeded, and finely diced
2-3 tablespoons fresh lime or lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh out with a spoon into a medium size mixing bowl. Mash the avocados with a fork until chunky. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well to combine. Enjoy immediately or cover with plastic wrap placed against the guacamole's surface and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Easy Guacamole Recipe Variations:
*Add 1/2 cup plum tomatoes, seeded and diced
*Add 1 clove garlic, minced
****************************************
Super Easy Guacamole Recipe
Mash together the flesh of 2-3 ripe avocados and 1/2 cup well drained salsa until well combined and still a little chunky.
Want a nifty tool to make Squeezing Limes a breeze?
Need a versatile Chip and Dip Set to serve your guacamole and chips in style?
