Real guacamole is about great avocados and restraint — lime and salt to season, onion, cilantro and chile for freshness and bite. Tomato is optional. Skip the gimmicks; let the avocado shine.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe avocados
  • ½ white onion, finely chopped
  • 1 serrano or jalapeño, minced (seeds out for less heat)
  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small tomato, diced (optional)
  • Juice of 1–2 limes
  • Salt to taste

Method

  1. Halve and pit the avocados, scoop the flesh into a bowl (a molcajete if you have one).
  2. Mash to your liking — chunky is traditional.
  3. Fold in the onion, chile, cilantro and tomato.
  4. Season with lime juice and salt. Taste and adjust — it should be bright and well-salted.
  5. Serve right away with tortilla chips, tacos or alongside tacos al pastor.

🥑 Keep it green

Guac is best fresh. To hold it briefly, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and add extra lime — air is what turns it brown.