Guacamole with Mango & Jalapeno

~Jackie~

Guacamole, Yum! It’s my favorite food. I say that about a lot of foods, but I think guacamole is my ultimate favorite. My family, friends, and especially Steve can testify to this statement; they have even seen me get sick because I guac-out and eat so much in one sitting. I love guacamole. I might have a problem, but it’s not my fault that it tastes so good and is such a satisfying snack (or meal in my case sometimes). Lucky for me, this creamy and flavorful dip is also healthy and nutritional. 

Avocados are actually a fruit that contain a small amount of sugar and a large amount of fat, but are incredibly delicious and popular because of their health benefits. They contain more potassium than a banana and offer other essential vitamins and nutrients. I like to keep my guacamole as simple as possible while maintaining the most amount of flavor. The key ingredients to any basic guac are: ripe avocados, lime juice, and salt. You can double, triple, or quadruple this recipe easily by remembering that for each avocado add 1/2 lime juiced. So two avocados = juice of 1 lime. The mango in this recipe not only adds a sweet balance to offset the sour lime juice, it is also a great filler to add volume to the guacamole.

I have seen guacamole made several different ways, and honestly there is no wrong way to make it. Just make sure your avocados are ripe. We once tried to make it with unripe avocados and thought using a blender was a brilliant idea to make them smooth and creamy…this did not work, just don’t do it. Smash the avocados with the lime juice and salt, then add in whatever ingredients you like. I have found that mangoes, red onion, fresh garlic, and jalapenos are a popular mix. So for your next party make this guac, and skip the queso, your body will thank you. I love guacamole.