BASIC GUACAMOLE RECIPE

Start to finish: 10 minutes
Servings: 12

4 Hass avocados, skins and pits removed
4 teaspoons lime juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

In a medium bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash avocados. The guacamole should be mostly smooth, but with visible chunks. Mix in the lime juice, cumin, salt and pepper. Proceed with the recipe using one of the following mix in combinations.

 Guacamole is best served right away and at room temperature. If you must make it ahead and refrigerate it, cover it with plastic wrap, gently pressing the wrap over the entire surface of the guacamole. This, combined with the acid of the lime juice, should prevent the guacamole from browning.