Guacamole

Guacamole is always the hit of the party. Well, that and the margaritas! Whether it's a backyard cookout, a game day snack, or Taco Tuesday, everyone will love this classic avocado recipe. Along with perfectly ripe avocados, you just need onion, tomato, cilantro and lime juice. Like your guac with an extra kick? Add some diced jalapeño for a bit of heat. Scoop it up with tortilla chips for a party dip or use it as the topping on a platter of nachos. Either way, it's the perfect addition to a Tex-Mex meal. 

How do you make guacamole from scratch?

1. Start with your seasoning. Combine the lime juice, onion, and salt in a bowl, and let sit for five minutes. This will help take the raw bite out of the onion so it's flavorful without being overpowering.

2. Use ripe avocados. The key to making the best guacamole is using perfectly ripe avocados. They should have a slight give when squeezed, but without being too hard or too mushy. To cut the avocados, halve them lengthwise using a sharp knife and carefully remove the pit. Then, scoop out the flesh using a spoon.

3. Mash it! If you don't have a molcajete y tejolete (Mexican mortar and pestle) handy,  just grab a fork and bowl and start mashing. Add the avocado to the bowl with the onion, and use a fork to mash until combined but still chunky. Then, add the tomatoes, cilantro and jalapeño, and fold everything together.

How do you make guacamole taste better?

You could eat mashed avocados with salt and lime juice and call it a day, but adding mix-ins like red onion, tomato, and cilantro brings even more flavor and texture to the dish. 

What else can you add to guacamole?

You can customize guacamole many different ways! Consider this version a classic, but don't be afraid to try other mix-ins. A little chopped garlic is a nice aromatic addition. Ree Drummond is a big fan of adding grilled corn to guacamole. If you really want to branch out, make bacon goat cheese guacamole. It's tangy, smoky, and so darn delicious!

What keeps guacamole from turning brown?

Lots of lime juice! It not only gives the guacamole a fresh, bright flavor, but helps to slow the oxidation (or browning) of a cut avocado. The guacamole may still turn brown over time, but the lime juice helps keep it green for longer. 

What's the best way to store guacamole?

You always want to store guacamole in an airtight container in the fridge, but to slow down browning try this trick: press some plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole before placing the lid on the container. This should help preserve its freshness and green color for a bit longer. When stored properly and made with enough citrus juice, guacamole will usually last a day or two, though it's always best eaten on the same day.