Great Guacamole!

I am an avocado super fan – and while I have no problem eating them by themselves – there is nothing better than a delicious guacamole and ice cold beverage (beer pairs very nicely). Summertime is fast approaching so master the art of guacamole and don’t be afraid to get adventurous!

Here is my basic Guacamole recipe:

(This is enough for me and my 4 kids so adjust accordingly if serving a crowd).

• 4 Haas Avocados
• Juice of 1 lime (2 if they are small)
• 1/2 cup of diced red onion – more or less depending on how much you like onion flavor
• 1 jalapeno diced – seeds and rib removed for less heat (my kids are fine with it – but might be too spicy for kids)
• 1/2 cup of diced grape tomatoes (you could use any tomato but I feel like these are best because they aren’t too juicy)
• 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro (again, more or less depending on your preference)
• 1 tsp of garlic powder (you can certainly use fresh, but I prefer the milder taste of the powder)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients. Don’t over mix it. If I feel it’s too dry I will add a splash of olive oil. It’s best prepared immediately before consumption but if you need to make it ahead and refrigerate, make sure you get plenty of lime juice in there to help with oxidation (no one likes brown guacamole). Then take a piece of plastic food wrap and press it directly on top of the guacamole to further prevent oxidation before placing the lid on your food storage container.

Now that you have the basic recipe, here are some fun ways to spice it up!

Fun Guacamole Recipes

Rachel at A Southern Fairytale has a great guacamole recipe with radishes included! I have never thought of using radishes and I can’t wait to try this.

One word: BACON. Savoring The Thyme has tons of amazing recipes, but this Bacon Guacamole might be my favorite.

Epicurious has a rather fancy guacamole recipe- Mango Pomegranate Guacamole, definitely party-worthy.

What’s Gaby Cooking has a fantastic Cajun Shrimp Guacamole recipe – that would almost upgrade guacamole from appetizer to main course!

Rick Bayless is definitely an authority on Mexican cuisine. Try is recipe on Live Well Network for Grilled Garlic and Orange Guacamole. Delish!

What’s your favorite guacamole recipe?