Low-carb Guacamole dip that’s tasty, filling, and fast to make! Serve it with antojitos as a delicious appetizer. Plus, I’ve got a handy tip for storing it so it stays fresh and doesn’t brown the next day. Enjoy!

Guacamole (Avocado Dip): Low Carb

Have you ever wondered how to make a low-carb version of guacamole, a delicious avocado dip often served in Mexican restaurants? It pairs perfectly with nachos, tacos, burritos, or anything else you want to dip into. I also have plenty of ideas for dippers, which are listed below.

You may be surprised that guacamole is fantastic for anyone like me who is watching their carbs. Even if you are not, you’ll love the benefits of eating this delicious dip regardless. Did you know avocados are the star ingredient and are naturally low in carbs? That is a big win!

Quick Guacamole recipe with fresh ingredients

Since store-bought guacamole can contain extra ingredients like sugar, the carb count tends to increase. That’s why I love making guacamole from scratch! It only takes about 10 minutes, especially if you have ripe avocados sitting on your countertop. We always do – we love avocados in our house!

Whenever my younger daughter comes home for the weekend, I make it a tradition to whip up some guacamole from scratch. She loves my homemade version! I’ve discovered that it takes just the right mix of ingredients to make it truly delicious.

What’s the secret to a good guacamole?

You’ll need a few ripe avocados, a red onion, lime juice, and fresh garlic to make delicious guacamole. Since avocados have a buttery, earthy flavour, you can mash them for a quick dip.

In this recipe, I’ve added red pepper and a bit of heat with red pepper flakes and green chilies, which is our preferred style. However, you can omit the peppers and add some diced tomatoes if you prefer a more traditional approach.

What are the Benefits of Guacamole?

Rich in Avocados

Guacamole’s delicious taste comes from the avocado, a nutrient-rich fruit known for its health benefits. Avocados are high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, and provide essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and potassium. This makes guacamole a tasty and healthy addition to any meal.

Naturally Low-Carb Guacamole

Another key benefit of guacamole is its inherently low carbohydrate content. This makes it a fantastic option for those following low-carb or keto diets. Rather than opting for carbohydrate-rich dips like salsa or creamy dressings, guacamole provides a satisfying alternative that can help maintain steady blood sugar levels while still delivering great taste.

Adaptable Dip

Guacamole is versatile and can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary needs. You can add ingredients like chopped tomatoes for freshness, diced red peppers for crunch, or zesty lime juice, garlic, and onions. This flexibility lets you create a guacamole that complements your meal or stands out as an appetizer, spread or salad ingredient.

How to Pick Avocados for Guacamole

1. Check for Firmness

To check if an avocado is ripe, gently squeeze it. It should give a little, but shouldn’t feel too soft or mushy. A firm avocado will take a few days to ripen, while a very soft one might be overripe. Pick a slightly soft one if you want to use the avocado today. If you can wait, choose a firmer avocado and leave it on your countertop for a day or two to ripen.

2. Inspect the Colour

Depending on the variety, avocados can range in colour from dark green to almost black when ripe – generally, the darker the skin, the riper the fruit.

3. Look for Blemishes

Avoid avocados with dark spots or blemishes on the skin, which may indicate overripeness or spoilage.

4. Check the Stem

I didn’t know this, but if the stem or cap is still attached, gently flick it off. The avocado is ripe if it comes away easily and reveals green underneath. If it’s brown, the avocado may be overripe.

5. Buy in Bulk

Buying a mix of ripe and unripe avocados is a good idea if you plan to use avocados within a week or two. This way, you’ll have some ready to eat and others that will ripen over time. Typically, avocados sold in bulk also offer better value for money.

Carbs and Servings in this Guacamole Recipe

This delightful avocado dip recipe produces approximately six generous servings. Each serving is low in carbohydrates, containing just 7.4 grams of carbs. Moreover, it boasts a healthy amount of dietary fibre at 4.8 grams, resulting in remarkably low net carbs of only 2.6 grams per serving!

under 5g net carbs per serving

• 4.7g of carbohydrates
• 4.8g of fibre
• 2.6g of net carbs

Perfect for those watching their carb intake while still wanting to enjoy a satisfying dish.

Ingredients and Notes

Ripe Avocados:

• Avocados are creamy, green fruits renowned for their rich, buttery texture and mild flavour. The color of the avocado flesh directly influences the hue of your guacamole. In my images, the avocado flesh was slightly lighter, but they were very ripe, resulting in a guacamole dip that had a light green shade.

Small Red Onion:

• Red onions boast a vibrant purple hue and a slightly sweet, tangy taste, making them a popular choice for fresh guacamole and salsas. Finely diced, they add a satisfying crunch and enhance the overall flavour profile of this dip without overpowering other ingredients.

Red Pepper/Capsicum:

• Since I don’t add tomatoes, as they make the guacamole soggy, I substitute diced red pepper instead to add a pop of color.

Green Chilli Peppers:

• If desired, remove the seeds from the green chillies and finely chop them to add to the guacamole. However, leaving them out is fine if you prefer a milder flavour. I sometimes skip the chillies when my older daughter is home, as she doesn’t like overly spicy food.

Lime Juice:

• Freshly squeezed lime juice is zesty and invigorating, bringing a burst of acidity and brightness to guacamole. It enhances avocados, balances richness, and adds a refreshing element to freshly made guacamole.

Cilantro/Coriander leaves:

• Also known as coriander, cilantro has a fresh, citrusy flavour that can elevate many dishes. Its vibrant green leaves provide a pop of colour and enhance the aroma and taste, making it a key herb in salsas, guacamole, and other flavourful concoctions.

Red Pepper Chilli Flakes:

• I always have crushed red pepper chilli flakes on hand. They provide varying degrees of heat, allowing me to spice up my guacamole as desired. A little sprinkle can add warmth and a kick of flavour, making them a staple in many savoury recipes like roasted asparagus and giving a delightful zing to sauces and dips.

Garlic Clove:

• For this recipe, using a fresh, minced garlic clove is essential; however, garlic powder can be a suitable alternative. If you choose to use garlic powder, substitute it with about 1 teaspoon and taste the mixture after combining. Additionally, if you opt for garlic powder, begin with less salt and adjust to taste afterwards.

Salt & Pepper:

• Salt balances and elevates the flavours of other ingredients, making it a crucial element in any recipe. Adjust to taste if using garlic powder.
• Ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity to guacamole.

How to Make Guacamole

1) Prepare Avocados and ingredients: Cut the ripe avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Chop up and prepare the remaining ingredients as desired. First, mash the avocados with a fork or add the finely diced red onion, red pepper, green chilies (if using), freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

2) Mash it all up: Use a fork to mash the avocados and fresh ingredients to your desired level of creaminess. You can leave it slightly chunky or make it smooth depending on your preference. Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning if needed (add more salt, lime juice, or chili flakes).

3) Serve or store: Transfer the guacamole to a serving bowl and garnish it with cilantro, onions or chillies. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately with tortilla chips, on tacos, or alongside your favourite Mexican dishes. If you have leftovers, cover the guacamole with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to minimize oxidation, and refrigerate and consume within 2 days.

Tips on Making the Best Guacamole

Following these tips will create a delicious and visually appealing guacamole that everyone will love!

• Choose the Right Avocados: Look for ripe avocados that give slightly when you apply gentle pressure. They should not be too firm or overly soft. The perfect avocado will have dark green skin with a slightly bumpy texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshness is key in guacamole. For the best flavour, use fresh cilantro, ripe deseeded tomatoes or substitute with diced red pepper, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Avoid pre-packaged ingredients whenever possible.
• Balance Your Flavors: Start with mashed avocados and add lime juice for a zesty kick. Season with salt, then incorporate diced onions, chopped cilantro, and tomatoes. Taste as you go to ensure the flavours are balanced and to your liking.
• Texture Matters: Depending on your preference, mash the avocados to your desired consistency. Leave some larger pieces of avocado for a chunkier guacamole. For a smoother texture, mash it thoroughly.
• Don’t Forget the Heat: If you like spice, add finely chopped green chili peppers, jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper. Just be cautious with the quantity to avoid overwhelming the other flavours.
• Store Properly: To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before sealing it in an airtight container. Adding an extra layer of lime juice on top can also help maintain its vibrant green colour.
• Serve with Style: For an appealing look, serve your guacamole in a bowl and garnish it with extra cilantro leaves or diced tomatoes. Pair it with tortilla chips and fresh vegetables, or use it as a topping for tacos and nachos.

Dipper Ideas for Guacamole

When serving guacamole, several delicious low-carb dippers can elevate your experience while keeping your carb count in check. These low-carb dippers offer fantastic options for enjoying guacamole healthily and satisfyingly!

Low-Carb Tortillas:

Look for tortillas made from almond flour or coconut flour. These provide a satisfying crunch and are perfect for scooping up guacamole. You can cut them into triangles and bake or fry them for a crispy chip alternative.

Low-Carb Crackers:

Many brands offer low-carb or keto-friendly crackers made from cheese, seeds, or nuts. These can add a delightful crunch and complement the creamy texture of guacamole.

Tacos:

Use low-carb taco shells made from lettuce wraps or coconut flour for a refreshing kick. Fill them with your favourite protein and top them with delicious guacamole.

Cauliflower Rice Burrito Bowls:

Start with cauliflower rice as the base, then add your favourite toppings, such as grilled chicken, cheese, and sautéed veggies. For added creaminess and flavour, spoon some guacamole on top.

Salads:

Enhance your green salads by adding a generous dollop of guacamole. It is a delicious dressing alternative with a rich flavour that pairs well with various salad ingredients.

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