Perfect Guacamole with the Right Onion
The best onion for guacamole tested—white, red, and yellow. Kitchen-tested classic Mexican dip made easy for US home cooks, with perfect ratios and pro tips.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe Hass avocados
- 3-4 tbsp finely diced white onion or 2-3 tbsp red onion, or 2-3 tbsp yellow onion, rinsed
- 1-1.5 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2-3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 small serrano or jalapeño minced (optional)
- 3-5 pinches kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut avocados in half, remove pits, and scoop flesh into a medium bowl.
- Prepare your chosen onion: For white onion, dice finely (2-3mm). For red onion, dice extra fine and macerate with 1 tsp lime juice for 5-10 minutes. For yellow onion, dice extra fine and rinse briefly under cold water or macerate with lime.
- Mash avocados to your desired consistency - chunky or smooth.
- Fold in the prepared onion and chopped cilantro.
- Add minced chile if using for heat.
- Season with lime juice and salt, starting with smaller amounts.
- Let the guacamole rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to integrate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning - add more onion in 0.5 tbsp increments, lime juice, or salt as needed.
- Serve immediately or press plastic wrap directly onto surface to prevent browning.
Notes
- White onion provides the most traditional, clean flavor
- Red onion adds bite and beautiful color
- Yellow onion contributes mild sweetness but needs careful balancing
- Always taste and adjust after the resting period
- Red onion adds bite and beautiful color
- Yellow onion contributes mild sweetness but needs careful balancing
- Always taste and adjust after the resting period