I remember visiting my grandma during summer breaks. The aroma of onions, cilantro, and ripe avocados always filled her kitchen. She’d be whipping up her famous guacamole. It’s that memory that inspired my simple 4 ingredient guacamole recipe.
This easy guacamole is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also a great quick snack for game day. This version gives you the taste of real guacamole. And it does it without all the extra work! You’ll love how fresh and flavorful it is. It’s become a staple in our house, especially with my twin girls, Lily and Mia. They can’t get enough of it!
Ingredients to make your 4 ingredient guacamole
The Essentials
This 4-ingredient guacamole recipe really shows off the best flavors of this dip. You only need four simple things: ripe avocados, lime, onion, and cilantro.
Avocados should be slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy. Give them a gentle squeeze. If they yield just a little, they’re perfect. For the lime, fresh juice is always best. It gives the guacamole a bright, zingy flavor. I sometimes buy extra limes and freeze the juice in ice cube trays for convenience.
When choosing an onion, I like using white or red onion. They have a nice sharp bite that complements the creamy avocado. Yellow onion works too, but I find it can sometimes be a bit overpowering. Finally, make sure your cilantro is fresh and vibrant green. It adds a fresh, herby flavor. If you’re not a cilantro fan (I know some people aren’t!), you can substitute with parsley.
Optional Add-ins
This guacamole is amazing just as it is. But, if you want to add a little extra something, here are a few ideas. A small jalapeño, seeded and minced, will add a kick of heat. Diced tomatoes give a burst of freshness. Or, try a pinch of ground cumin for a smoky flavor. A sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper also adds a nice touch of heat. It’s all up to you!
Making the 4 Ingredient Guacamole
Preparing the Ingredients
First, dice the onion finely. I like to use a small dice so the pieces aren’t too big. If the onion flavor is too strong for you, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain. Next, chop the cilantro. I prefer a rough chop, but you can make it finer if you like.
Now, for the avocados. Carefully cut them in half lengthwise, going around the pit. Twist the halves to separate them. To remove the pit, carefully whack the blade of your knife into the pit. Then twist the knife to lift the pit out. Scoop the avocado flesh into a bowl. I like to use a heavy, wide bowl so it’s easier to mash.
Mashing and Mixing
Now comes the fun part! I like to use a fork to mash the avocados. If you like chunky guacamole, don’t mash them completely. Leave some bigger pieces. For smoother guacamole, mash until it’s creamy. You can also use a potato masher if you prefer.
Add the diced onion and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Squeeze in the juice of one lime. Give everything a good stir to combine. I like to taste the guacamole at this point. You can add more lime juice if you want it more tart. A pinch of salt also helps bring out the flavors. Mix again, and your guacamole is ready!
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
Of course, tortilla chips are the classic choice for serving guacamole. I like to use sturdy chips that can hold up to the dip. But there are so many other delicious ways to enjoy this 4-ingredient guacamole!
Try it with grilled chicken or fish. It adds a creamy, flavorful element to your meal. You can also use it as a topping for tacos or nachos. Or, get creative and spread it on a sandwich or wrap. It’s surprisingly delicious with turkey and bacon!
Baked potatoes are another great option. Top them with guacamole, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a hearty and flavorful meal. You can even use guacamole as a dip for vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It’s a healthy and tasty snack. My kids love it!
Storing Your Guacamole
If you have leftover guacamole, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh. Avocados tend to brown when exposed to air. Here are a few tricks to prevent that.
The best way to store guacamole is in an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to create a seal. This helps keep the air out. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Sometimes I’ll put the avocado pit in the guacamole before covering it. I’m not sure if it really helps prevent browning, but it’s an old trick I learned!
Another method is to add a thin layer of water to the top of the guacamole before sealing the container. The water acts as a barrier against the air. Just pour off the water before serving. This method can keep the guacamole green for a little longer.
Tips and Variations
Getting the Best Flavor
Here are a few of my tips for making the most flavorful 4-ingredient guacamole. First, always use fresh lime juice. Bottled lime juice just doesn’t have the same bright, fresh taste. If you don’t have fresh limes, you can use lemon juice in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of onion and cilantro to your liking. If you love cilantro, add a little extra! If you’re not a big fan of onion, use less. It’s all about finding the balance that works for you. Tasting as you go is key!
My grandma always said a little salt enhances the flavors of any dish, and she was right! A pinch of salt in your guacamole can really make a difference. I like to add it after I mash the avocados and then taste and adjust as needed. Sea salt or kosher salt works best.
Variations on the 4 Ingredient Guacamole Recipe
While this 4-ingredient recipe is delicious on its own, there are lots of ways to customize it. Try adding different herbs and spices. A pinch of garlic powder or cumin can add a nice depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also be a nice addition. Sometimes I like to add a little smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
Roasted garlic is another delicious variation. Roast a whole head of garlic until soft and caramelized, then squeeze out the cloves and mash them into your guacamole. It adds a sweet and savory flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use jarred roasted garlic.
If you like spicy food, try adding some serrano peppers to your guacamole. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat, or leave them in for a fiery kick. Just remember to start with a small amount and add more to taste. You can also use a dash of your favorite hot sauce. I like to add a little bit of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat.
Why This 4-Ingredient Guacamole is Special
This guacamole stands out because it’s so simple, yet so flavorful. I love that I can make it with just four basic ingredients that I usually have on hand. It’s perfect for those times when I need a quick and easy appetizer or snack. Plus, it’s healthier than a lot of other dips and snacks because it’s made with fresh, whole ingredients.
For a fun Easter treat, try making these Easter cookies or some festive Easter egg fruit pizzas.
FAQ
What are the ingredients for guacamole?
The basic ingredients for guacamole are ripe avocados, lime juice, onion, and cilantro. These four ingredients create a simple, delicious guacamole.
What is traditional guacamole made of?
Traditional guacamole often includes a few more ingredients. Along with avocados, lime juice, onion, and cilantro, you’ll often find tomatoes and chili peppers. Some recipes also include garlic, cumin, or other spices.
What is the secret to good guacamole?
The secret to good guacamole is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ripe avocados are key! Also, finding the right balance of flavors is important. Fresh lime juice adds brightness, and a touch of salt enhances all the other flavors.
How to make guacamole simple?
A simple guacamole recipe sticks to the basics. Avocados, lime juice, onion, and cilantro are all you need for a delicious and easy dip. This 4-ingredient guacamole recipe is a perfect example of how simple guacamole can be.
This 4-ingredient guacamole recipe proves that simple can be delicious! It’s quick, easy, and full of fresh flavors. It’s the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Whether you’re having a family get-together or a last-minute gathering with friends, this guacamole is always a hit. It’s even kid-approved! Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a regular in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. My twin girls Lily and Mia ask for it all the time now!