One of the most popular dishes to make from avocados is guacamole. It is an easy to make side that can be eaten as a dip, spread on a sandwich or topped on a salad. The key to making good guacamole is to start with perfectly ripe avocados. Look for avocados that are dark in color and firm, but yield to gentle pressure when you press them (they shouldn’t feel soft or mushy).
Easy to make and good for you, this classic guacamole is the ticket to wild popularity at any party you bring it to.
How to make guacamole
Ingredients
- 3 large avocados, halved and pitted
- 1½ tablespoons lime juice, from 1 lime, plus more to taste
- heaping ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 3 scallions, white and light green parts only, very thinly sliced
- ¼ teaspoon minced garlic, from 1 clove (optional)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (about 2½ tablespoons; see note)
- 1 small tomato, seeded and diced
- 3 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Hold an avocado half in the palm of your hand and, using a butter knife, cut a grid into the flesh. Use a spoon to scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Repeat with the remaining avocado halves.
- Add the lime juice, salt, cumin, scallions, garlic (if using), and jalapeño.
- Using a fork, mash the mixture until blended but still very chunky.
- Add the tomatoes and cilantro and fold until combined, being careful not to overmix (you want the guacamole to be chunky).
- Transfer to a bowl and serve with tortilla chips.
Health benefits of Avocados
A great source of potassium:
Just one avocado can contain almost 15 percent of the daily recommended potassium intake. That’s as much potassium as in one-and-a-half large bananas. Potassium works to combat high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.
High in fiber: Avocados are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Dietary fiber is known to create a feeling of satiety, which can prevent snacking throughout the day.
