The one drawback of guacamole, like some passionate relationships, is that it doesn’t last long. Things turn ugly fast, but at least this dish is so popular you probably won’t have any leftovers to remind you of the past. Now that you’ve learned how to properly cut an avocado, it’s time for a fiesta! Though some Latin American purists might disagree, the popularity of this Tex-Mex staple as a topping or simply with tortilla chips is undeniable. However the sad containers that they sell as prepared guacomole in the grocery store are almost guaranteed to have a strange consistency, even stranger colors, and lack of flavor. Try it fresh and you won’t go back.

2 ripe avocados
1/2 small red onion
1/4–1 whole jalapeno pepper
1/2 bunch cilantro
1 Tablespoon lime juice
salt and pepper

1. Cut the avocado into roughly one-inch pieces (click here for how to video). Chop red onion and pepper into small pieces. Roll the cilantro into a tight bunch and chop finely.
2. Using a mortar and pestle or the back of a fork, mash the avocado until only slightly lumpy.
3. Mix in the onion, pepper, cilantro, and lime juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.