Nothing complements a Mexican meal like fresh, flavorful guacamole and zesty salsa verde. These two classic condiments bring vibrant taste and texture to everything from tacos and burritos to grilled meats and tortilla chips. Best of all, they’re easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or just craving a taste of authentic Mexican flavors, these homemade recipes will take your dishes to the next level.
The Perfect Homemade Guacamole
Guacamole is a creamy, flavorful avocado-based dip that adds richness to any dish. The key to great guacamole is using ripe avocados and balancing the flavors with fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a little heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- Juice of 1-2 limes
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash them with a fork until you reach your desired consistency—chunky or smooth. Stir in the lime juice, onion, tomato, jalapeño, cilantro, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend, then serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos and burritos.
Pro Tips:
- If you want extra creaminess, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the guacamole’s surface before refrigerating.
Homemade Salsa Verde
Salsa verde, or “green salsa,” is a tangy, slightly spicy sauce made with tomatillos. Unlike red salsa, which is made from tomatoes, salsa verde gets its unique flavor from roasted or boiled tomatillos, blended with garlic, jalapeños, and cilantro. It’s perfect for drizzling over tacos, dipping chips, or serving with grilled meats.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1-2 jalapeños (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-15 minutes, until the tomatillos soften and develop a slight char. Let them cool slightly before transferring everything to a blender or food processor. Add cilantro, lime juice, and salt, then blend until smooth. If the salsa is too thick, add a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.
Pro Tips:
- For a smoky flavor, roast the ingredients on a dry skillet or grill instead of baking.
- Salsa verde pairs wonderfully with enchiladas, tacos, or grilled chicken.