Are you ready to elevate your avocado game? Forget the usual tomato-laden guacamole; today, we're exploring a vibrant, fresh take on this beloved dip. This guacamole recipe, made without tomatoes, showcases the creamy richness of avocados in its purest form, allowing the other flavors to truly shine. It's the perfect healthy appetizer, snack, or side dish for any occasion. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea, homemade cooking at its best, and guaranteed to become one of your best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe avocados
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Avocados: Gently scoop the flesh of the ripe avocados into a medium-sized bowl. Avoid overripe avocados as they will be too mushy.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and garlic powder to the bowl.
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Mash and Mix: Using a fork, gently mash the avocados until they reach your desired consistency. Some people prefer chunky guacamole, while others like it smoother. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
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Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious, tomato-free guacamole immediately with tortilla chips, or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled chicken. For an extra special touch, garnish with a sprinkle of extra cilantro or a few lime wedges.
Tips for the Perfect Guacamole:
- Avocado Ripeness: The key to great guacamole is using perfectly ripe avocados. They should yield to gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Lime Juice is Key: Lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps to prevent the avocados from browning.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder guacamole, remove the seeds and membranes before mincing.
- Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the chopped onions, jalapeño, and cilantro ahead of time. However, it's best to mash the avocados and mix everything just before serving to prevent browning.
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange juice for a zesty variation.
- Herby Goodness: Experiment with other herbs like parsley or chives.
- Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on avocado size and additions)
- Fat: High in healthy monounsaturated fats
- Fiber: Good source of dietary fiber
- Protein: Moderate source of protein
This delicious and healthy guacamole recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create truly memorable dishes. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights and a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy texture of this tomato-free guacamole!