When you think of guacamole, Italy might not be the first place that comes to mind. Yet, this unique twist on the classic dip brings a bit of Mediterranean flair to the table. The creamy avocado meets the salty tang of feta cheese for a delightful fusion you didn’t know you needed. Perfect as a party starter or a fresh side dish, this guacamole adds a surprising and delicious twist to any meal.
Steps
- Begin by preparing the avocados: peel and remove the pits from three ripe avocados. Place them in a mixing bowl.
- Mince two large cloves of garlic and finely chop one jalapeno, ensuring to remove the stem and seeds. Add these to the mixing bowl.
- Core and finely chop one roma tomato, or alternatively use three tablespoons of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add the tomato to the bowl.
- Finely chop half a cup of red onion and a quarter cup of fresh basil leaves. Add both to the mixture in the bowl.
- Add one tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice, half a teaspoon of coarse sea salt, and a pinch of coarse black pepper to the bowl.
- Use a fork to mash all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the guacamole immediately, or cover it with plastic wrap that touches the surface of the guacamole to prevent browning, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 2 large cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 jalapeno, stem and seeds removed, finely chopped
- 1 roma tomato, cored and finely chopped (or substitute with 3 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- Pinch of coarse black pepper
FAQ
- Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice in Italian guacamole?
- Yes, you can substitute lime juice for lemon juice in Italian guacamole. Either citrus will work well, depending on your taste preference.
- What can I use instead of fresh basil if I don’t have any?
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you could try using other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a different twist, though the flavor will be distinct from the original recipe.
- How can I keep my guacamole from turning brown?
- To prevent guacamole from browning, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the entire surface of the guacamole. This minimizes exposure to air, which causes browning.
- Can I add any other ingredients to enhance the Italian flavor?
- Absolutely! Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or Parmesan cheese for an extra Italian flair.
- Is Italian guacamole suitable for vegan diets?
- Yes, Italian guacamole is vegan-friendly as it contains only plant-based ingredients. Just ensure any additional toppings or accompaniments also adhere to a vegan diet.
Tips
- Experiment with Herbs: Try substituting fresh cilantro with fresh basil for a unique twist. This simple swap can give your guacamole a refreshing Italian flavor profile.
- Lemon vs. Lime: Use lemon juice instead of lime to add a different citrus note. Both work well, but lemon pairs nicely with the basil and garlic.
- Enhance with Add-Ins: Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh romas for a richer taste, and sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or Parmesan cheese for extra Italian flair.
- Prevent Browning: If not serving immediately, cover the guacamole tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the entire surface to minimize oxidation and keep it fresh.
Equipment
- Avocado Masher or Guacamole Bowl with Masher – If you do not have a fork or prefer a specialized tool for mashing avocados.
- Chef’s Knife – A high-quality chef’s knife for chopping ingredients like garlic, jalapeno, tomato, red onion, and basil.
- Cutting Board – A durable cutting board for preparing the ingredients.
- Garlic Press – If you prefer to use a press to mince the garlic instead of chopping by hand.
- Citrus Juicer – For extracting juice from lemons or limes efficiently.
