Classic Guacamole

It has been raining non-stop for what feels like the past three weeks here in Atlanta. Considering it’s only March, I shudder to think how many April showers we might be in for next. 😬We have some beautiful Azalea bushes in the front yard, and I’m counting on all this rain to get them primed and ready for Spring! Last year when they bloomed, we only got to enjoy them for a few days before a giant rainstorm knocked them all down. Not this year! We’re getting all this weather out of the way EARLY. Or so I keep reminding it.

Spring means birds and flowers and warm sunshine and al fresco dining. So far, I can only check off birds on that list. Setting up feeders on the back deck was the best decision I could have made. I get to see them visiting all hours of the day (but especially around dinnertime), and I’ve started talking to the regulars like they’re members of my family. More specifically? Our cardinal pair, goldfinch pair, and a rather large Woodpecker who isn’t afraid to take on a squirrel or two in pursuit of his breakfast.  

They remind me that warmer days are on the way and my menu card better be ready! The perfect kickoff snack for outdoor dining is absolutely a cold margarita with some quality chips, salsa, and guacamole. Surprisingly, I didn’t actually like 🥑🥑🥑 until close to a few years ago. I know, I know – grab your pitchforks now! They seemed very foreign and fatty and bland. Plus, my hardcore love of salsa pretty much overshadowed any other tortilla chip condiment out there (including queso).

Oh, the error of my ways! All avocados need is some quality seasoning, flavorful mix-ins, and a vehicle to shove as much into your face as humanly possible. Enter the humble tortilla chip. The perfect canvas for dressed up, dressed down, or classic guacamole. Even if you can’t eat outside on a patio just yet – spread out a fun tablecloth, warm up some chips, and start the season with a bright green party in a molcajete. It’ll banish any rainy-day blues in a snap. Guaranteed.

Classic Guacamole

Serves 8 | Hands-On: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 ripe avocados
• ½ a medium red onion, diced
• 1 lime, juiced
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp. garlic paste
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Steps

1. Cut avocados in half and remove skins and pits. Mash with a fork in a medium bowl, leaving a few chunks for texture.
2. Add red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic paste. Mix well.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix.
4. Add additional fresh cilantro and diced onion for garnish if desired.
5. Enjoy!

Optional Mix-In Ideas  

• Diced Tomato
• Jalapeno
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese
• Diced Mango
• Charred Corn Kernels