3-Step Paleo Guacamole Recipe
There are some recipes that simply taste better when you make them yourself—and guacamole is definitely one of them. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but when made fresh, it far surpasses any store-bought version in both flavour and nutrition. Most importantly, making your own means full control over the ingredients, so you can avoid unnecessary additives like preservatives, emulsifiers, or hidden sugars. You won’t find any nasties here.
This is my go-to guacamole recipe—fresh, simple, and totally Paleo-friendly. It’s perfect as a snack, a side, or a topping, and it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it at a party or adding it to a weekday lunch, homemade guac is always a winner.
Recipe: Guacamole Dip
Equipment
- Pestle and mortar
- Chopping Board
Ingredients
- 4 chillies finely sliced
- Small bunch coriander cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes finely diced
- Sea salt to taste
- 1 red onion finely diced
- Juice of ½ lime
- 4 ripe avocados
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Use a pestle and mortar to grind together the chillies, coriander (cilantro), tomatoes, sea salt, and onion until you reach a paste consistency.
- Add Lime Juice: Add the lime juice and a dash of water if required to make the mixture more fluid.
- Mash the Avocados: Just before serving, mash in the avocados to the mixture until well combined.
Why Fresh Is Best
Guacamole is one of those dishes that’s best enjoyed soon after it’s made. The flavours are bright, the texture is just right, and the nutrients are at their peak. While you can store it in the fridge for a short time, the appearance and taste are always best when freshly prepared. If you need to make it in advance, a little extra lime juice can help preserve the colour for longer. But ideally, whip it up just before serving for the freshest result.
Unlike store-bought versions that often contain preservatives or added sugar, this homemade Paleo guacamole relies on just a few quality ingredients—ripe avocados, lime, sea salt, and optional extras like garlic, onion, or fresh herbs. It’s clean, nourishing, and packed with flavour.
The Power of Avocados
Avocados are a cornerstone of many Paleo meals, and for good reason. They’re loaded with monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and help keep you feeling full. They’re also an excellent source of potassium, fibre, and a variety of essential vitamins—particularly vitamins C, E, K, and several B vitamins.
Pairing avocados with lime juice not only enhances the flavour of guacamole but also boosts vitamin C content and helps preserve the vibrant green colour. It’s a small but powerful combo that makes this dip as nutritious as it is delicious.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavour
Here’s what makes up the base of this guacamole:
- Avocados: Ripe but not over-soft. Look for a slight give when pressed gently.
- Lime juice: Adds brightness and slows oxidation.
- Sea salt: Brings out the natural flavours of the avocado.
- Optional add-ins: Garlic, coriander (fresh or ground), chopped red onion, tomato, or jalapeño for heat.
Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, you’ll find endless ways to customise it depending on your preferences and what you have on hand.
How to Customise Your Guacamole
Guacamole is one of the most adaptable dishes in any Paleo kitchen. Try these variations to keep things interesting:
- Add heat: Stir in finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of crushed chilli flakes.
- Make it smoky: A touch of smoked paprika adds depth and warmth.
- Herb it up: Add chopped coriander for a bright, fresh flavour.
- Give it crunch: Finely diced red onion or cucumber can add texture.
- Add a fruity twist: Try diced mango or pomegranate seeds for sweetness and colour.
Once you get comfortable with the basic version, guacamole becomes less of a recipe and more of a canvas for your favourite flavours.
Perfect Paleo Pairings
While guacamole is often thought of as a dip, it’s far more versatile than that. Here are some Paleo-friendly ways to enjoy it:
- As a dip for raw veggies like carrots, cucumber, capsicum, or celery.
- Spooned over grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a creamy, tangy topping.
- Paired with sweet potato wedges or baked plantains.
- As part of a Paleo bowl with leafy greens, roasted veg, and protein.
- Served with almond flour crackers or dehydrated veggie chips for a snack platter.
It’s also fantastic alongside homemade pâté, as the creamy texture of guacamole contrasts beautifully with the rich, savoury spread.
How to Store Guacamole (and Keep It Green)
We all know that guacamole turns brown quickly after being exposed to air, but there are a few tricks to help keep it looking fresh for longer:
- Use extra lime juice: A thin layer of lime juice on top helps prevent browning.
- Cover tightly: Press cling film directly onto the surface of the guac before sealing with a lid.
- Try the pit trick: Some swear by storing the avocado pit in the bowl to slow oxidation—it may not be foolproof, but it doesn’t hurt!
Keep refrigerated and consume within one to two days for best results. While the top layer might discolour slightly, you can scrape it off to reveal the vibrant green guac underneath.
Entertaining? Serve It Three Ways
Guacamole is ideal for sharing, and you can make a trio of versions to suit different tastes:
- Classic & Chunky: Hand-mash with a fork, keeping some texture. Add sea salt, garlic, and lime to taste.
- Spicy & Smooth: Blitz in a food processor for a creamy consistency and stir in jalapeño and cumin.
- Tropical Twist: Add diced mango, pineapple, or pomegranate seeds for a refreshing summer-style guac.
These variations also look beautiful on a platter and are sure to please everyone, from spice lovers to those who prefer a milder dip.
Guacamole on the Go
If you need a healthy snack while travelling, guacamole is a fantastic choice. Portion it into small reusable containers and pair with veggie sticks or Paleo-friendly crackers. It’s satisfying, full of good fats, and keeps you energised between meals.
Just be sure to keep it cool if you’re out for more than a couple of hours—an insulated lunch bag or cool pack works well.
Make It Part of Your Routine
Guacamole isn’t just for parties. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can become part of your regular meal prep. It takes just a few minutes to throw together and can be used throughout the week to add flavour and nutrition to your meals.
From breakfast to dinner, it complements eggs, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or simple bowls. It’s one of those recipes that helps make Paleo eating feel indulgent while staying clean and wholesome.
Final Thoughts
Guacamole is a brilliant example of how simple, natural ingredients can come together to make something truly special. It’s nutritious, delicious, and endlessly customisable. Whether you enjoy it chunky and rustic or silky smooth with a spicy kick, making it yourself means you’re always in control of what goes into your food—which is exactly what Paleo is all about.
So skip the plastic tub at the supermarket and make your own instead. It only takes a few minutes, and your taste buds (and your health) will thank you.
Do you have a favourite twist on guacamole? Whether it’s extra lime, a sprinkle of cumin, or a fruity addition, I’d love to hear your variations in the comments below!
Made this guacamole and it was excellent! So much better than store-bought.