Video: How To Make 3 Kinds Of Guacamole

Avocado is a perfect entity all on its own. You don't need more than a spoon to enjoy it. But when you mash it with acid and salt, something really special happens: guac. Even that simple formula of acid + salt doesn't need any improvements. Someone with chip in hand is not going to turn away perfectly respectable standard guacamole. But that doesn't mean you can't have a little fun and experiment with the many different flavors and textures that can take your guac from basic to baller.

Here are three easy ways to amp up your guac:

(1) Blend the avocado until super smooth, then stir in sour cream, olive oil, finely minced garlic, cilantro, lime juice and salt for the silkiest guacamole ever.

(2) Grill the avocado, a red onion and a jalapeño until deeply charred. Then chop and mash with crushed cumin seeds, lime juice and salt for a guacamole that's chunky, spicy and smoky.

(3) Mash avocado with diced mango and pineapple, fish sauce, chopped basil, lime juice and salt for a tropical-island guacamole.

For more ideas to upgrade your guac, see "A Guac to Remember." 

Get more guacamole recipes and tips:
- The Best Basic Guacamole
- Try This Award-Winning Guac
- Tips and Tricks for Perfect Guacamole