Grilled Guacamole
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There is an abundance of guacamole recipes on the internet – but THIS grilled guacamole recipe takes it to the next level. The subtly smoky flavor of the grilled veggies meld with the zesty, creamy avocados. While the smoky flavor of the grilled veggies is subtle, it changes everything about the guac – in the best possible way!
With its creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and fresh ingredients, guacamole will always be a winning party appetizer or taco topper in my book. When I want to take it up a notch, I grill the veggies before mashing everything together.
That quick trip to the grill adds a beautiful char and a subtle smokiness that transforms the whole bowl. The creamy avocados soak up all that flavor, and every time I serve it, someone inevitably asks, “What’s going on with this guacamole? Why is it so good?”
Ingredients needed
Grilling the lime, jalapeño, shallots, and tomatoes changes the flavors of the ingredients, adding a smoky, charred twist. This is what you need:
- Limes: Smoky citrus? Yes please! The zesty flavor is enhanced, brightening up the guac.
- Shallots: They become more subtle when cooked, imparting a smoky sweetness.
- Jalapeño peppers: They lose some of its heat when cooked, so you can use and taste more without the burn.
- Cherry tomatoes: Softened on the grill, they blend right into the guacamole.
- Cooking oil: Prevents sticking.
- Ripe avocados: Our creamy base that holds all the smokiness perfectly.
- Sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Feta: Optional feta cheese adds a tangy, savory finish.
How to pick a ripe avocado
Selecting a ripe avocado is crucial for achieving that creamy, flavorful goodness. Here are some tips for picking the perfect avocado:
- Color: While colors can vary by variety, ripe avocados generally have dark green to almost black skin. Hass avocados turn dark purple or black when ripe.
- Feel: Gently push your thumb into the avocado without applying too much force. It should yield slightly, but not feel mushy. The avocado should feel consistent throughout.
- Stem end: Check the small stem at the top of the avocado. Push it off and check if it is green underneath, meaning it’s ripe. If it is brown, or hard to remove, it indicates over ripeness.
- Smell: A ripe avocado has a slightly sweet aroma but doesn’t smell off or have a fermented aroma.
- Size: Choose an avocado that feels heavy for its size – this indicates a creamy interior.
What to serve with grilled guacamole
Serve this alongside some grilled tortillas or some vegetable sticks, or next to some corn salsa for an incredible appy station bursting with vibrant flavors.
Dollop some grilled guacamole on top of your Mexican fries or sweet potato nachos. Make a meal by laying it down next to some grilled shrimp skewers and spicy mexican rice.
It’s also the perfect topping for your Mexican hot dog, bbq chicken quesadillas, green chicken enchiladas, in a guacamole burger, or on your favorite type of taco.
Wash it down with a Mexican mule or a cucumber margarita!
Recipe FAQs
Can I grill my tortilla chips, too?
Absolutely, you can grill your tortilla chips, and we’re thrilled you picked up on that detail in the pictures! It adds a whole new level of specialness to this appetizer. Start with high-quality tortillas, preferably small, home-style ones. Stack them up, cut them into six pieces, generously coat them in oil, and throw them onto the grill. Cook them over low heat, giving them a few flips until they’re just right. Keep in mind they’ll crisp up a bit more as they cool down, so be mindful of overcooking. It’s a bit more effort, but the result is worth it!
Can I use any other ingredients?
Sure! Adjust as needed depending on your preferences or what is available. You can top the grilled guacamole with some fresh cilantro or add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten it up. Mix through some roasted cloves of garlic, use red onions instead of shallots, or add a crack of black pepper before serving.
I don’t have a BBQ, can I still make this grilled guacamole?
Sure – simply use a grill pan! It won’t have quite the same smoky flavor, but it will still be delicious!
Grilled Guacamole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 limes (cut in half)
- 2 medium shallots (peeled and cut in half)
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 1 handful cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 3 large ripe avocados
- Optional: ¼ cup feta cheese
- Sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Oil and preheat your grill to medium-high. Place the limes, shallots, jalapenño pepper, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl and toss with the oil.2 limes, 2 medium shallots, 1 jalapeño pepper, 1 tablespoon cooking oil, 1 handful cherry tomatoes
- Place the limes on the grill cut side down. Toss the rest of the veggies on the grill. Remove the veggies when grill marks appear on ONE side. You want the smoky flavor but you don't want them to be completely cooked.
- When the shallots, pepper, and tomatoes are cool enough to touch, roughly chop them.
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Squeeze the grilled limes into the bowl and add the chopped veggies and, if you’re using, the feta cheese. Using a fork, mash the avocados and mix in the veggies. Taste the guacamole and season to taste with sea salt.3 large ripe avocados, Optional: ¼ cup feta cheese, Sea salt
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
The two guacamole recipes look great. Will be trying both tonite taco Wednesday!
I’m so happy to hear that! I hope you love them as much as I do!
This looks so good!
Thank you so much! It really is delicious. 🙂
You’ve got to try this one! I swear I never want to get off this grilling everything (except avocados!) trend I’m on.