This creamy avocado dip is a tasty treat that’s easy to whip up! Just mash ripe avocados and mix in some lime juice, salt, and spices for a bright flavor.
It’s perfect for snacking with chips or veggies. I love making it for movie nights. Honestly, you might want to double the recipe—it’s that good! 🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Ripe avocados are essential for a creamy dip. Look for ones that yield slightly to pressure. If you can’t find ripe avocados, you can ripen them at home by placing them in a brown bag with an apple or banana for a day or two.
Lemon or Lime Juice: Fresh juice brightens the flavors and prevents browning. If you’re out of lemons or limes, a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Cilantro & Chives: These fresh herbs add a lot of flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley instead. Green onions can also work well if you don’t have chives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice kick. For a milder taste, you can reduce the amount or opt for garlic powder. Just remember it’s less potent, so use about 1/8 teaspoon.
Ground Cumin: This is optional but adds a warm, earthy tone. If you want to kick things up, try smoked paprika instead, or omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Dip?
Getting the right texture is key to a great avocado dip. You want it creamy with a few chunks for interest. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start by mashing the avocados gently with a fork or potato masher—this lets you control how smooth you want it.
- Mix in the lemon juice right away to keep that vibrant color and add a little zing.
- When you add your herbs and spices, fold them in gently rather than stirring too vigorously. This keeps some of the avocado chunks intact.
Adjusting the texture can be based on personal preference, so don’t hesitate to taste and add more ingredients until you’re happy!
Avocado Dip
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for drizzle)
- Tortilla chips or pita chips for serving
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious avocado dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy! Just mix, taste, and enjoy. Perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Start by cutting the avocados in half. Carefully remove the pits and scoop the green flesh into a medium mixing bowl. Be gentle to keep some chunks for texture!
2. Add Lemon Juice:
Immediately squeeze in the lemon juice. This adds a zesty flavor and helps prevent the avocado from browning, keeping your dip fresh and vibrant.
3. Mash the Avocado:
Take a fork or a potato masher and gently mash the avocado to your liking. Aim for a creamy consistency with a few chunky bits for a delightful texture.
4. Mix in Flavor:
Stir in the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and chives. These fresh herbs add tons of flavor to your dip!
5. Season to Taste:
Add in the salt, black pepper, and cumin if you’re using it. Mix everything well. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, it should be flavorful!
6. Drizzle and Combine:
Pour in the olive oil and give it a final stir to combine everything nicely. This will make the dip smooth and creamy.
7. Serve It Up:
Transfer your avocado dip into a serving bowl. Drizzle a touch of olive oil on top for a beautiful finish.
8. Garnish:
Top with chopped herbs and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a pop of color and a little kick.
9. Enjoy!
Serve immediately with warm tortilla chips or pita chips. Don’t forget some lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Dig in and enjoy this herbaceous, creamy avocado dip—it’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer at any gathering!
Can I Use Overripe Avocados for This Dip?
Yes, overripe avocados can work, as long as they’re not brown or mushy beyond recognition! Just make sure they’re still edible and have a decent flavor. If they taste off, it’s best to skip them.
How Can I Prevent My Dip from Browning?
To keep your avocado dip looking fresh, add lemon juice as soon as you mash the avocados. If you have leftovers, cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it against the surface to minimize air contact, and refrigerate immediately.
Can I Make This Dip Vegan?
This avocado dip is already vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based, so you can enjoy it guilt-free. It’s a great option for vegan gatherings or parties.
What Other Herbs Can I Use?
If you don’t have cilantro or chives, feel free to swap them out for other fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or even basil for a unique flavor profile. Just make sure the herbs you choose complement the other ingredients!
