1medium-size ripe tomato(cored, seeded, and chopped; about 2/3 cup)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper(to taste)
2teaspoonsfresh lime juice
½ to 1teaspoonchopped seeded jalapeño pepper(optional)
½ to 1teaspoonchopped fresh cilantro(optional)
Lots of tortilla chips(for serving)
Instructions
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and use a knife to cut the avocado flesh into chunks right in the skin, cutting in one direction and then crosswise in a gridlike fashion. Use a spoon to scoop out all of the flesh into a medium-sized bowl.
Add the onion, tomato, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Use a fork or a potato masher to combine the ingredients and mush up the avocado, leaving it as chunky or as blended as you like. Stir in the lime juice, then adjust the seasonings.
You can serve the guacamole as is with tortilla chips or use on tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or other dishes.
Notes
Jalapeños are hot, and cilantro is a serious love-hate herb. There are various versions of the guacamole you can make. If you don't know if you have cilantro haters or heat-averse people in the crowd, make the guacamole without the jalapeños and cilantro, then divide the mixture into two bowls. Leave one batch plain and spike the other with the more strongly flavored ingredients. Make sure to label the bowls if you do this.What the Kids Can DoThey can cut the crosshatches in the avocados, which does not have to be done neatly or require a sharp knife. You could let littler kids scoop out chunks of the avocado with a spoon instead and mash away.