Easy-Peasy Guacamole
fresh, slightly tangy and simply delicious!
. . .
a perfect combination of creaminess and flavors to serve as a starter or alongside grilled veggies (or anything else you might be grilling)!
Guacamole originates from Mexico and it is believed that it dates all the way back to the 1500s. I, however, discovered it in more recent years and has been a favorite of mine pretty much from the moment I decided I like cilantro! And yes, that took a couple of years, but here I am now … loving cilantro so much so that I cannot imagine my life without it!
I should note that traditional recipes include tomatoes in the guacamole, but I skip them in my recipe simply because I prefer to have a tomato salsa on the side. If you like to include tomatoes, simply half the tomato, scoop out the watery seeds and cut into small cubes.
Avocados are versatile, delicious and a good source of key nutrients. Turns out avocados are considered to be berries, native to Mexico and Central America, but have gained a world-wide reputation over the last decade thanks to their versatile nature, nutritious qualities and creamy deliciousness. Avocados are a good source of fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system, healthy fats, vitamin C & vitamin E (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds), vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and folate. Avocados can be incorporated into both sweet and savory recipes like smoothies, desserts, soups, salads, and burritos. They can also be enjoyed on their own with a sprinkle of lemon, salt and pepper. {source}
Red onions contain various vitamins, minerals, and potent plant compounds that have been shown to promote health in many ways. They are high in nutrients, including vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium, as well as rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful plant pigments that may protect against heart disease, certain types of cancer, and diabetes. Red onions can be used in a variety of dishes and will only add deliciousness to any plate! {source}
Cilantro (or Coriander) is a fragrant, antioxidant-rich herb that has many culinary uses and health benefits. It is full of antioxidants that demonstrate immune-boosting, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Coriander may protect your heart by lowering blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. A spice-rich diet appears to be associated with a lower risk of heart disease. The antioxidants in coriander may reduce brain inflammation, improve memory, and reduce anxiety symptoms, though more research is needed. Coriander may reduce unpleasant digestive symptoms like bloating and discomfort often experienced by people with IBS. Coriander exhibits antimicrobial effects that may help fight foodborne illnesses and pathogens like Salmonella. {source}
This guacamole recipe is simple and straightforward, but also fresh, creamy and delicious! Although guacamole can be paired-up with any number of other food, it can also hold its ground and be absolutely stunning all on its own.
needed ingredients
preparation details
Like I mentioned above, this is by far one of the simplest recipes ever and takes very little time to prepare, BUT the only thing you need to make sure is that the avocados are juuust ripe enough. Typically for me that means buying them a couple of days in advance (or always having some avocados handy) and letting them hang out on the counter. You know they are ready when they are very slightly soft to the touch.
To prep the avocados cut them in half then using a small knife carefully apply a little bit of pressure on the pit (please be very careful because the knife can easily slip and you will stab yourself instead of the pit … speaking from experience here :)) after which twist to one side and the pit should pop right out; then using a spoon, scoop out the flesh and place into a wide bowl.
You can prep the guacamole one of two ways - manually, like I am doing here, or you can use a food processor. If you go with the lather, roughly chop all of the ingredients, add the spices and pulse a few times until the desired consistency is achieved.
If you decide to go the manual route or do not have a food processor, I find that using a potato masher is the easiest way to mash all of the avocados. If you do not have a potato masher, using a fork works as well.
You can cut up the onion and cilantro as fine or as rough as you like, I like mine kind of in the middle. I would only suggest that you clean the seeds of the jalapeno and chop it rather finely because otherwise you (or one of your guests) may get a very unexpected spicy surprise in a bite.
I love guacamole! I eat it on its own, add it to salads, in sandwiches, as a side to a main dish - it is easy to prepare, but brings so much brightness and freshness to the table!
recipe
Easy-Peasy Guacamole
Easy to prepare, this guacamole is fresh, slightly tangy and simply delicious! Whether you have it on its own or as a side to any main dish, it will bring brightness and freshness to any table.
{vegetarian and vegan friendly}
Author: The Kitchen Plot
Prep Time: 15 min.
Cook Time: -
Overall Time: 15 min.
Serves: 4 (as side dish)
Perfect for: appetizer, side dish
Keeps for: fridge - 1-2 days
Ingredients:
4 avocados (* see note about ripeness under method)
1/2 medium-size red onion, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper (or any other spicy pepper), finely chopped
1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juice
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 - 1 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp hot pepper flakes (for the fans of spicy food), optional
Method:
* Note on ripeness: make sure the avocados are just the right amount of ripe - very slightly soft to the touch. I find that buying avocados and letting them sit on the counter for 2-3 days achieves the perfect ripeness. Also note that any avocados that will not be used after hanging out on you counter for a couple of days should be placed in the fridge.
Start out by scooping out the avocados into a large bowl then using a potato masher or a fork, mash them to the desired consistency.
* If using a food processor - place the avocados in it, roughly chop the onion and cilantro, add the spices and pulse a few times until the desired consistency is achieved. Taste and adjust the taste to your liking.
Add the chopped onion, jalapeno, cilantro, spices and mix well. Taste and adjust to your liking.
Transfer the guacamole into a serving plate and serve with tortilla/ corn chips (or whatever other chips you have handy).
Guacamole can also be served as a side dish to grilled veggies (or anything else from the grill), added to your salad and/ or sandwich.
Bon Appétit!
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