Best Bites: Homemade Guacamole
By Donna Erickson
Make Homemade Guacamole as a Weekend Treat
It's a rare day when I don't have an avocado "in waiting" on my kitchen counter. And when it's just ripe, guacamole is bound to be on the dinner menu as an appetizer with tortilla chips or as a final crowning dollop on a quesadilla, a taco or grilled fish.
PHOTO CREDIT: Donna Erickson
You can add some zip to a weekend meal with the yummy taste of guacamole. Who can resist the tempting combination of creamy avocado, fresh garlic, seasonings and zesty lime?
And while you are at it, let your school-aged kids pitch in to help with an easy step or two. As they squeeze the last wedge of lime, invite friends over for an impromptu get-together. It just might be the relaxing antidote everyone needs after a busy workweek.
HOMEMADE GUACAMOLE
Makes about 2 cups
2 ripe Haas avocados, peeled and pitted
2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (see note below)
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 medium tomato, seeded and diced (optional)
1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)
Mash avocados in a mixing bowl with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks. Add lime juice, onion, jalapeno, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir well.
Fold in tomato and add cilantro or parsley, if you wish. Serve immediately, or place plastic wrap directly on top of the guacamole. Leave on the counter to enhance the flavors until it's ready to serve within an hour or two.
Cook's Tips:
Stretch the recipe by stirring in a 1/2 cup of small-curd cottage cheese just before you spoon it into a serving bowl.
For a quick dip, mash an avocado and add a tablespoon or two of your favorite salsa. Stir together and serve.
Note: The juice of jalapeno peppers can be irritating. Wear plastic deli-style gloves when handling. Avoid hand contact with your eyes.
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Donna Erickson creates relationships and community through food and fun. Find more to nourish and delight you at www.donnaerickson.com.
(c) 2025 Donna Erickson
Distributed by King Features Synd.