This Avocado Spread is creamy, versatile, and pairs well with almost anything. It’s a healthy snack that’s keto-friendly, vegetarian, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious.
Use it on toast, spoon it over grain or salad bowls, dollop it on tacos, or enjoy it straight from the spoon. It also makes a fantastic topping for baked chicken nachos or any recipe that benefits from a bright, creamy finish.
My fondness for avocados started when I began dating my husband, Cole. Not only is his guacamole a family favorite, but his family lives where enormous avocados grow abundantly — perfect for mashing into this spread. Since then, avocados have become a pantry staple in our kitchen and this spread is one of our go-to recipes.
How is avocado spread different than guacamole?
Avocado spread and guacamole are closely related, but the textures and purposes differ. Avocado spread is blended until completely smooth so it functions as a true spread. Guacamole typically contains chunky mix-ins like onion, tomato, or jalapeño, while an avocado spread is silky and uniform, meant for spreading, dipping, or swiping across ingredients without large pieces.
What you need to make avocado spread
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados. They should yield slightly when pressed and have no large indentations or dark spots under the skin.
- Fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavor and helps prevent browning. Bottled will work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Avocado oil or olive oil: A little oil helps create a silky texture. Avocado oil complements the flavor, but olive oil is a fine substitute.
- Sea salt: Just a pinch brings out the avocado’s natural richness and balances the acidity.
- Garlic: A teaspoon of minced garlic adds a savory note; increase to taste if you love garlic.
- Fresh cilantro: Cilantro adds color and a bright herbal lift; it’s optional but recommended for the classic flavor.
- Equipment: A food processor or blender makes the smoothest spread; you can also mash by hand for a chunkier texture.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
No problem — swap the cilantro and lime for fresh basil and lemon juice. The result is still bright and creamy, with a different but equally delicious herbal profile.
Other delicious add-ins
Customize the spread with extra ingredients for new flavors and textures:
- Roasted red pepper: Chop roasted red peppers and stir them in for a sweet, smoky note.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for tang and umami.
- Jalapeño: Diced jalapeño brings heat if you like a spicy kick.
- Everything bagel seasoning: Sprinkle this on top of avocado toast for a crunchy, savory finish.
Here’s a tip
If your blender or food processor struggles to make the spread smooth, add up to a tablespoon of water or a little extra lime juice to thin it slightly and help the blades do their work.
Storage
This avocado spread is best fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize browning, then stir before serving.
Great ways to use this avocado spread
This spread is extremely versatile. Some favorite uses include:
- Bowls: A dollop of avocado spread adds creaminess and richness to grain bowls, grain-free bowls, or protein bowls.
- Tacos: Use the spread as a sauce substitute on chicken, fish, pork, or vegetarian tacos.
- Toast: Spread it on toasted bread and top with seeds, microgreens, egg, or smoked salmon.
- Dip or condiment: Serve as a dip for vegetables or as a condiment for sandwiches and wraps.
Cilantro Lime Avocado Spread
Make any dish better with this smooth, flavorful avocado spread. It’s quick to prepare and works with countless meals and snacks.
Author: Lee Funke · Prep: 10 mins · Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe avocado
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, packed (optional)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon water to thin, if needed
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a high-speed food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick to blend evenly, add up to 1 tablespoon of water or a little extra lime juice to reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: add more salt, lime juice, or garlic if desired. Transfer to a bowl and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation per serving:
- Calories: 166 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Nutrition values are estimates and should be used for general guidance only.
