Lime Zest Guacamole: A Fresh Twist on the Classic

This tangy guacamole utilizes the whole lime to add zesty flavor to every bite.

or read on for step-by-step instructions with photos

Why use citrus zest?

I love to incorporate the zest of citrus fruits into my cooking. Often overlooked, zest contains a high concentration of flavor from its essential oils, adding a burst of freshness to foods. It would be a shame to juice the fruit without zesting it first.

The lime zest in this recipe takes your classic guac to the next level. It intensifies and brightens up the dip making it absolutely addictive!

What you’ll need

Ingredients

• 4 ripe avocados

• 1 plum tomato, finely diced

• ¼ large white onion, finely diced

• 1 green onion, finely chopped

• 1 jalapeno, deseeded and finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• ½ bunch cilantro with stems, finely chopped

• 2 limes, zested and juiced

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• salt & pepper to taste

Equipment

• Knife & cutting board

• Mixing bowl & spoon

• A fork or hand masher

Makes: 3 cups (750 ml) Prep: 15 min

How to make it

Step 1

Mash the avocados.

Halve, pit, and scoop the flesh of the avocados into a mixing bowl. Then, smash with a fork or hand masher to your desired consistency - I like mine on the chunkier side.

Step 2

Prep and mix in the other ingredients.

Prep the plum tomato, white onion, green onion, jalapeno, garlic, cilantro, lime zest & juice, and add it all to the bowl. Then add the olive oil, salt, and pepper, and mix well.

Step 3

Season and let it rest.

Taste to adjust with more salt, pepper, and lime zest & juice if necessary. I like to make mine pretty zippy. Then, eat it right away or chill in the fridge for a few hours to let the ingredients meld together.

My tips

• How to keep guacamole green? 

  Using olive oil and a high amount of lime juice helps keep this guacamole from browning. In addition, store it with plastic wrap pressed right onto the surface to minimize air exposure.

• How to serve - aside from tortilla chips, serve guacamole as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for tacos, fajitas, burritos, or salads.  

• Pair it with a drink - serve with a refreshing non-alcoholic drink such as sangrita, a fresh fruit agua fresca or jamaica (iced hibiscus tea), or an alcoholic drink such as a classic margarita, mezcal cocktail, or an ice-cold Mexican beer to complete the experience.

Substitutions

• Lime zest & juice - other citrus fruits such as lemon or orange can be substituted for a slightly different flavor. Apple cider or white vinegar could also be used in a pinch.

• Onion - If you don’t like strong onion flavor, use only green onions or omit onion altogether.

• Tomato - diced mango, pineapple, corn, black beans, or roasted red peppers can be used in addition or instead of tomato to add sweetness, acidity, and texture to your guacamole.

• Cilantro - if you're not a fan of cilantro you can substitute with fresh parsley or chives for a different herbaceous flavor.

• Jalapeño - substitute with serrano, poblano, or green bell peppers to adjust the heat level. Hot sauce could also be used instead if fresh peppers are not available.

• Seasonings - experiment with spices to add to your guacamole such as cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, or ground coriander.

Storage

• Stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the dip, this guacamole should last up to 3 days in the fridge.

• Leftover guacamole can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the texture and flavor will change slightly.

• Defrost frozen guacamole in the fridge overnight and stir to redistribute any liquids that have separated during freezing before serving.

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Egg-free, Vegan, Vegetarian, Low-carb

That’s it, enjoy!

I used my leftover guacamole as a sandwich spread with chicken, bacon, tomato, and goat cheese on a toasted ciabatta roll. It was incredibly messy and satisfying.

I hope you enjoy this zesty guacamole as a dip, spread, or any other way you can think of!

Summary

Easy Authentic Guacamole Recipe

Elevate your favorite game-day snack with a zesty twist. Quick, easy, and healthy!

Makes: 3 cups (750 ml) Prep: 15 min

Ingredients

• 4 avocados

• 1 plum tomato, finely diced

• ¼ large white onion, finely diced

• 1 green onion, finely chopped

• 1 jalapeno, deseeded and finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• ½ bunch cilantro with stems, finely chopped

• 2 limes, zested and juiced

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Mash avocados. Scoop avocado flesh into a bowl, mash to desired consistency.

2. Prep and mix ingredients. Chop tomato, onion, jalapeno, garlic, and cilantro, and add to bowl. Mix in lime, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Season and rest. Adjust seasoning, chill to meld flavors before serving.

Top Tips

• Keep guacamole green by adding olive oil and plenty of lime juice, and store it with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to reduce air exposure.

• Pair guacamole with refreshing drinks like sangrita, fruit agua fresca, margarita, or Mexican beer to complete the experience.

• Serve guacamole not only with tortilla chips but also as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for tacos, fajitas, burritos, or salads.

What's your favorite game-day snack? Share your top picks in the comments.

Enjoy!