You can never go wrong with a classic, simple, healthy guacamole. Fresh avocados, cilantro, vegetables, spices and a squeeze of lime make this guac outstanding even in its basic form.
This recipe was originally posted in February 2015 and updated in February 2020. Photos and text were refreshed; the recipe remains the same.
I still remember reading articles years ago that claimed guacamole was unhealthy because it was high in calories and fat. One magazine even suggested swapping guac for salsa to save calories. Those repeated messages painted guacamole in an unfair light.
But newsflash, guacamole is healthy, my friend.
Guacamole is simply mashed avocados mixed with vegetables, herbs and spices. It’s made from whole fruits and veggies, so calling it unhealthy doesn’t add up. Avocados are nutrient-dense, providing healthy fats, fiber and a range of vitamins and minerals.
Here’s my favorite simple, healthy guacamole. If you make guac at home, chances are yours will be just as nutritious and delicious. Enjoy every last bite.
You won’t need many ingredients—just a handful of fresh items and simple seasonings.
What you will need to make this guacamole:
- Avocados: ripe and soft to the touch.
- Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes work well; dice them.
- Onion: red onion is my favorite, finely chopped.
- Cilantro: the recipe lists 1/2 cup packed; add more if you love cilantro.
- Garlic: one clove minced (add a second if you prefer).
- Crushed red pepper: start small and adjust to taste.
- Lime juice: juice of 1/2 lime; lemon can work in a pinch.
- Salt and pepper: season to taste; about 1/2 tsp cracked pepper and salt as desired.
- Optional: jalapeño, a dash of cumin, extra lime or lemon to help slow browning.
Want to know a great trick to keep guacamole from browning quickly?
To extend freshness, place the guacamole in the storage bowl and press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface so it contacts the entire surface. Then add the lid or a second layer of plastic. If stored overnight using this method, you may scrape off a very thin top layer, but the rest will remain bright and green.
Enjoy!
Love avocados? Try other avocado recipes for variety.
- Spicy Mango Guacamole
- Havarti Grilled Cheese with Mashed Avocado + Baby Arugula
- Easy Avocado Toast with Honey + Pistachios
- Avocado Ranch Tuna Salad
- Avocado Pesto Pasta
- Cowboy Caviar with Avocado
- Vegan Black Bean Avocado Quesadillas
- Watermelon Avocado Salad with Feta
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and let me know! I love to see your creations—tag @lemonsandzest on social media.
Healthy Guacamole Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ripe avocados, soft to the touch
- 1 large or two small Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, packed
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (adjust for spice)
- Juice of 1/2 a lime
- Sea salt and cracked pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pits and scoop avocado flesh into a bowl. Gently mash to your preferred texture.
- Add tomatoes, onion, cilantro, garlic, crushed red pepper, lime juice, salt and pepper. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
I love cilantro and often add more than the 1/2 cup listed. If you’re unsure, start lighter and increase to taste.
Nutrition
Calories: 252 kcal, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 3 g, Fat: 22 g. Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
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