What is Guacamole?
Guacamole is an avocado-based dip, spread or sauce, and there are lots of ways to make and enjoy it. California Avocado growers may have almost as many ways to make guacamole as there are grower families. The Wilkie family’s go-to guacamole recipe is one of the simplest with just two ingredients: California Avocados and garlic salt. Other California Avocado guacamole recipes, including some created by renowned chefs, may have a dozen or more ingredients. But what makes the best guacamole? That’s a personal question because what makes the best guacamole for one person may not be what makes it the best guacamole for you. It’s the beauty of guacamole…you can create it and customize it based on what you like!
What are the Ingredients in Guacamole?
Avocados are of course the most important ingredient in guacamole. To make the best guacamole, in addition to avocados, many guacamole recipes contain combinations of ingredients with salty and acidic flavor profiles as well as heat/spice and aromatics. Table salt, sea salt, seasoned salt, garlic salt, onion salt and other specialty salts can be used… or skipped for a low sodium guacamole. Favorite acidic ingredients include lime juice, lemon juice and tomatoes. Other citrus juices and vinegars can be used for guacamole, and acid can be skipped altogether. Diced or minced jalapeños and serrano peppers are common sources of heat for guacamole, as are other fresh or dried chiles and hot sauces.
Many different varieties of onions are popular from the aromatics family, as is garlic. Cilantro is the most controversial aromatic, being a must-have ingredient for cilantro lovers and a flavor killer for those who dislike the herb. Other debated ingredients include dairy (like sour cream and cheese), fresh and dried fruit, veggies, other fruits like pineapple or mango and crunchy toppings. Here’s a chart of some of the most-common guacamole ingredients that you can add, omit or combine to make your own best guacamole. There are more than half a million different guacamole recipes that can be made using California Avocados plus the various combinations of these tasty add-ins.
What can you eat with guacamole?
Fried corn tortilla chips are the classic accompaniment to guacamole, but there are as many uses for guacamole as there are ways to make it. Flour tortillas and flour tortilla chips are great variations, as are potato chips and other salty snacks. For a healthy option try using cut vegetables as dippers. Carrot sticks and chips, celery sticks, jicama sticks and peppers cut into scooper shapes work great. Other raw dipping vegetables include broccoli and cauliflower florets.
Guacamole makes a great topper for Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, fajitas and tortas. California burgers, wraps and other sandwiches get extra zing with guacamole, as do main dishes such as grilled or roasted meats and fish. Many California Avocado guacamole recipes are vegetarian or vegan, and are delicious with plant-based proteins. You also can use guacamole in place of salad dressing and other spreads.
How long does guacamole last?
Guacamole is best when freshly made. To store guacamole, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate. Depending on what other ingredients are in the guacamole, it may last a day or two in the refrigerator. If the top turns brown simply scoop off the top layer and discard it.
Can you freeze guacamole?
Fresh-made guacamole has the best quality. You can freeze guacamole the same way you freeze mashed avocado. Other ingredients in the guacamole can affect how long the guacamole will last. It is recommended to defrost and enjoy frozen guacamole within a week or two.
Guacamole Recipe Inspiration
A few of our favorite guacamole recipes to get you started. Looking for more? Check out our full collection of over 100 guacamole and dip recipes.
A true homemade guacamole recipe handed down from generation to generation.
A traditional guacamole filled with wholesome ingredients and heart-healthy avocado is simply delicious and comes together in just a couple of minutes.
Behold the definitive recipe for the best guacamole you’ll ever taste.
Ripe California Avocados and just a few more fresh ingredients are all you need to create this Quick and Easy Guacamole.
Creative Guacamole Recipes
Grilling avocado takes guacamole to a whole new level intensifying its rich, buttery flavor. The sweet and juicy grilled mango pairs perfectly with the warm dip and balances out its spiciness.
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