Hey there, fellow food adventurers! Are you ready to take your taste buds on an exhilarating ride? Forget everything you thought you knew about classic dips because today, we’re diving headfirst into a recipe that’s guaranteed to become your new obsession: guacamole with everything bagel seasoning. That’s right, we’re merging the creamy, zesty perfection of homemade guacamole with the irresistible crunch and savory punch of your favorite bagel topping. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, promising a burst of flavor and texture with every single scoop.
I remember the first time I stumbled upon this idea. I was making my usual batch of guacamole for a casual get-together, and as I reached for the salt, my eyes landed on a jar of everything bagel seasoning. A mischievous little thought popped into my head: "What if…?" The rest, as they say, is history. The result was a revelation – the nutty sesame, pungent garlic and onion, and flaky sea salt from the seasoning elevated the humble avocado to an entirely new level. It was an instant hit, and since then, my guacamole with everything bagel seasoning has become the most requested dish at every potluck, picnic, and impromptu snack session. It’s easy, it’s fresh, and it’s packed with so much flavor, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Ready to make some magic? Let’s get mashing!
Guacamole with Everything Bagel Seasoning: Recipe Details
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes (It’s a dip, after all!)
- Servings: 4-6 people (or 1 very hungry person, no judgment here!)
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this glorious everything bagel guacamole:
- 3 ripe Hass avocados: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Not too soft, not too hard.
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion: Red onion adds a beautiful color and a sharp, fresh bite.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: For that essential herby, vibrant lift. If you’re not a fan, see the substitution section below!
- 1-2 small jalapeños, finely minced (seeds removed for less heat): Adjust to your spice preference. Start with one, taste, and add more if you dare!
- 1 large lime: You’ll need the juice for brightness and to prevent browning.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste): Just a little, as the everything bagel seasoning also contains salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): For a subtle warmth.
- 2-3 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning: This is our star! Adjust based on how much crunch and flavor you desire.
- Optional garnish: Extra cilantro sprigs, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a dash more everything bagel seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Guacamole with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Follow these simple steps to create the best guacamole with everything bagel seasoning you’ve ever tasted!
Step 1: Prep Your Avocados
Carefully cut each avocado in half lengthwise around the pit. Twist the halves apart. Remove the pit by gently tapping it with the blade of a sharp knife (be careful!) and twisting, or by scooping it out with a spoon. Scoop the creamy green flesh into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Tip: If your avocados are a bit firm, place them in a brown paper bag with a banana or apple overnight. The fruit releases ethylene gas, which helps ripen the avocados faster.
Step 2: Mash the Avocados
Using a fork or a potato masher, gently mash the avocado flesh to your desired consistency. Some people prefer it super smooth, while others love a chunky texture. I lean towards a slightly chunky consistency for this recipe, as it provides a lovely contrast to the crunch of the seasoning.
- Tip: Don’t over-mash! A few small chunks add character and a satisfying mouthfeel.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics and Spice
To the mashed avocado, add the finely diced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, and minced jalapeño. These ingredients are crucial for that fresh, authentic guacamole flavor.
- Tip: For less pungent onion flavor, rinse the diced red onion under cold water for a minute or two after chopping, then pat dry before adding to the bowl. This mellows their bite.
Step 4: Introduce the Citrus and Seasonings
Halve your lime and squeeze the juice directly over the avocado mixture. Start with the juice of one lime, then add the sea salt and black pepper. The lime juice not only brightens the flavor but also helps prevent the avocado from browning.
- Tip: To get the most juice from your lime, roll it firmly on the counter for a few seconds before cutting. You can also microwave it for 10-15 seconds for even more juice.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
Using a spoon or spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Taste a small spoonful. This is your chance to adjust the salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference. Remember, you’ll be adding everything bagel seasoning, which contains salt, so be conservative with added salt for now.
- Tip: Always taste and adjust! Every avocado and lime is different, so trust your palate to get the balance just right.
Step 6: The Star of the Show: Everything Bagel Seasoning
Now for the exciting part! Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the everything bagel seasoning over the guacamole mixture. Gently fold it in. The goal is to distribute it throughout, adding both flavor and texture.
- Tip: Don’t just dump it all in! Start with 2 tablespoons, mix, taste, and if you want more of that iconic crunch and flavor, add the third tablespoon. You want it present, but not overwhelming.
Step 7: Final Taste and Garnish
Give your everything bagel guacamole one last taste. Does it need more salt? More lime? A little more kick from the jalapeño? Adjust as needed. Once perfect, transfer the guacamole to your serving bowl.
- Tip: For an extra flourish, sprinkle a little more everything bagel seasoning on top just before serving, along with a few cilantro sprigs or a thin slice of jalapeño. This makes it look as good as it tastes!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your amazing guacamole with everything bagel seasoning immediately with your favorite tortilla chips, vegetable sticks, or as a topping for tacos, burgers, or toast. Prepare for rave reviews!
- Tip: If you’re not serving immediately, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent air exposure and browning. See storage tips below.
Extra Tips & Tricks for Perfect Guacamole with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Cooking Tips:
- Choosing Ripe Avocados: The best guacamole starts with perfectly ripe avocados. They should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed but not mushy. If they’re too hard, they won’t mash well. If they’re too soft, they might be overripe and stringy.
- Preventing Browning: The enemy of fresh guacamole is air! The lime juice helps, but for longer storage, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole, ensuring no air bubbles are trapped. You can also add an avocado pit to the bowl (though this is more superstition than science, it doesn’t hurt!).
- Adjusting Spice: If you love heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, omit the jalapeño entirely or use a less spicy pepper like a bell pepper.
Variations & Substitutions:
- Additions:
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved or quartered cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color.
- Corn: Fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels add a lovely sweetness and texture.
- Black Beans: Rinsed and drained black beans make it heartier and more of a meal.
- Feta Cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta can add a salty, tangy counterpoint.
- Cilantro Haters: If you’re one of those who find cilantro tastes like soap, don’t fret! You can substitute it with finely chopped fresh parsley or omit it entirely. A little finely chopped fresh chives can also work.
- Lime Substitute: If you don’t have fresh limes, lemon juice can work in a pinch, though it has a slightly different flavor profile.
- Onion Substitute: If red onion is too strong, finely chopped green onions (scallions) or even chives offer a milder alternative.
Serving Ideas:
Beyond the obvious tortilla chips, your guacamole with everything bagel seasoning is incredibly versatile!
- Veggies: Serve with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or celery.
- Breakfast/Brunch: Spread it on toast or bagels (fittingly!), serve alongside scrambled eggs, or as a topping for breakfast burritos.
- Main Meals: Dollop it on tacos, burritos, quesadillas, grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy burger. It makes a fantastic sandwich spread too!
- Snack Bowls: A healthy and satisfying snack by itself or with some crunchy rice cakes.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per Serving)
Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on exact ingredient amounts and brands. This calculation is based on 6 servings.
- Calories: 220-250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18-22g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5-3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250-300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12-15g
- Dietary Fiber: 8-10g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Vitamin C: 20-25% DV
- Vitamin K: 25-30% DV
- Potassium: 600-700mg
FAQ About Guacamole with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Q1: Can I make guacamole with everything bagel seasoning ahead of time?
A: Guacamole is always best fresh, but you can make it a few hours ahead. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole, ensuring there’s no air between the dip and the wrap. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 1-2 days, though the color might darken slightly.
Q2: How do I store leftover guacamole?
A: The best way to store leftover everything bagel guacamole is to transfer it to an airtight container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole, then seal the container. Refrigerate for up to 1-2 days. If it browns slightly on top, just scrape off the top layer, and the guacamole underneath should still be good.
Q3: Is everything bagel seasoning healthy?
A: Everything bagel seasoning typically consists of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt. In moderation, it’s a flavorful addition. It contains healthy fats from the seeds and beneficial compounds from garlic and onion. The main consideration is the sodium content, so if you’re watching your salt intake, choose a low-sodium version or use it sparingly.
Q4: Can I freeze guacamole?
A: While technically possible, freezing guacamole is generally not recommended as the texture can become watery and unappetizing upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two from the fridge.
Q5: What kind of everything bagel seasoning should I use?
A: Any brand of everything bagel seasoning will work! You can find it in most grocery stores in the spice aisle. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own by combining black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and flaky sea salt.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Guac!
And there you have it, friends! Your very own batch of the most delicious, texture-rich, and utterly addictive guacamole with everything bagel seasoning. This isn’t just a dip; it’s an experience. The creamy avocado, the zesty lime, the subtle heat of the jalapeño, and that incredible crunch and savory depth from the everything bagel seasoning all come together in perfect harmony. It’s a game-changer, I promise you.
So, go ahead, grab those avocados, and get mashing. Once you try this guacamole with everything bagel seasoning, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for plain guac again. Don’t forget to share your creations with me, and let me know in the comments below how much you loved this recipe. Happy dipping!