Pomegranate Seed Guacamole: A Festive Holiday Delight

Name: Pomegranate Seed Guacamole
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe avocados: Soft and ripe avocados are perfect for creamy guacamole.; 1/3 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a mild sharpness and crunch.; 1 jalapeño, minced: Adjust for your desired spice level.; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: For a herby, aromatic touch.; 1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds: Sweet and tangy bursts of flavor.; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice: Helps balance the flavors and prevents browning.; Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

A fresh, creamy guacamole with sweet, juicy pomegranate seeds for a burst of flavor!

Bowl of pomegranate seed guacamole surrounded by red and yellow tortilla chips on a wooden table, showcasing a vibrant and fresh presentation.

Discover a fresh twist with Pomegranate Seed Guacamole! Creamy, tangy, sweet, gluten-free, and dairy-free—this easy recipe is ready in minutes for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Inspiration and Origins

Pomegranate Seed Guacamole is a sophisticated twist on a classic recipe, perfect for bringing vibrant flavors and a festive flair to your table. Juicy pomegranate seeds paired with creamy avocado create a dish that’s visually stunning but also delicious and elevated.

The idea for this unique guacamole often comes from culinary innovations at Mexican restaurants, such as the celebrated Barrio Queen in Scottsdale, where their tableside guacamole featuring pomegranate arils is a customer favorite. This blend of sweet, citrusy, and creamy flavors also reflects the artistic and bold influences of arts communities like Jerome, Arizona, where chefs infuse Southwestern inspiration into every dish.

This recipe transforms simple guacamole into a holiday-worthy centerpiece, ideal for everything from holiday parties to elegant casual dinners.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

The beauty of this pomegranate guacamole lies in its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet remains accessible:

Ripe avocados provide a rich, creamy base.
Red or yellow onion adds a savory bite.
Cilantro enhances the vibrant, herbaceous notes.
Pomegranate arils add bursts of sweetness and contrast beautifully with the green guacamole.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a formal holiday gathering or enjoying a casual summer BBQ, this pomegranate guacamole fits the bill. Its vibrant green base, accented by the red jewels of pomegranate seeds, makes it especially ideal for the holiday season, adding a touch of festivity to your spread.

To save time during busy moments, use pre-packaged pomegranate arils, which simplify preparation while maintaining the dish’s fresh flavor. The result is a quick, nutritious, and highly adaptable dish that works year-round.

Why You Will Love Pomegranate Seed Guacamole

Bursting with Flavor

A perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors.
The juicy pomegranate seeds add a delightful burst of sweetness that complements the ripe avocados and fresh cilantro.
Hints of citrusy and tangy undertones elevate the dish with every bite.

Quick and Easy to Make

Minimal prep time—just a few fresh ingredients, and you’re ready to go!
Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday parties, or last-minute gatherings.
Using pre-packaged pomegranate arils further simplifies the process.

Nutrient-Packed and Healthy

Avocados provide heart-healthy fats and a creamy texture.
Pomegranate seeds add antioxidants and refreshing sweetness.
Packed with nutrients, this recipe is as healthy as it is indulgent.

Elegant and Memorable

The addition of pomegranate seeds adds a touch of sophistication and uniqueness.
The red and green contrast creates a show-stopping presentation, making it the centerpiece of your spread.
With its bold flavors and festive appeal, this dish will leave your guests talking about it long after the meal.

Ingredients

3 ripe avocados: Soft and ripe avocados are perfect for creamy guacamole.
1/3 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a mild sharpness and crunch.
1 jalapeño, minced: Adjust for your desired spice level.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: For a herby, aromatic touch.
1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds: Sweet and tangy bursts of flavor.
2 tbsp fresh lime juice: Helps balance the flavors and prevents browning.
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

Directions to Make Pomegranate Seed Guacamole

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Scoop the flesh of the ripe avocados into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the avocados are fresh, slightly soft, and green inside. Finely chop the onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Keep the pomegranate seeds chilled if you want an extra refreshing crunch.

Fresh ingredients for guacamole, including avocados, cilantro, lime, jalapeño, pomegranate seeds, and onions, on a wooden surface. — Fresh guacamole ingredients arranged neatly on a wooden surface: avocados, seasoning, cilantro, lime, jalapeño, pomegranate seeds, and onions.

2. Mash the Avocados

Gently mash the avocado in the bowl using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a creamy texture while leaving some small chunks for added bite. If you prefer a smoother consistency, mash thoroughly.

Hands mashing ripe avocados in a ceramic bowl with a fork, surrounded by halved avocados, creating a creamy guacamole texture. — A close-up of hands mashing ripe avocados in a ceramic bowl with a fork, preparing creamy guacamole, with halved avocados in the background.

3. Season the Guacamole

Add the chopped onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the mashed avocados. Mix them well to distribute the ingredients evenly. Pour in the fresh lime juice and sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your taste. Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning as needed for a perfect balance of flavors.

4. Fold in Pomegranate Seeds

A bowl of pomegranate seed guacamole being mixed with a spoon, garnished with cilantro, red onion, and vibrant pomegranate seeds. — A close-up of pomegranate seed guacamole being mixed with a spoon, topped with cilantro, red onion, and ruby-red pomegranate seeds.

Carefully fold in the pomegranate seeds using a spoon or spatula. Be gentle to avoid crushing the seeds, as they add a delightful pop of sweetness and texture to the guacamole.

5. Serve Fresh and Enjoy

Transfer the guacamole to a serving dish. For a visually appealing presentation, garnish with a few extra pomegranate seeds and a sprig of cilantro. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

A bowl of pomegranate seed guacamole garnished with cilantro, served with a side of tortilla chips and extra pomegranate seeds. — A bowl of pomegranate seed guacamole topped with cilantro and served alongside tortilla chips and extra pomegranate seeds for dipping.

Tips for Variations and Substitutions

Pomegranate seed guacamole is a versatile recipe that you can customize to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to tweak the flavors and add your personal touch:

Spice It Up

Add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle your favorite hot sauce to elevate the heat.

Fruit Swaps

Replace pomegranate seeds with diced mango, pineapple, or strawberries for a tropical or sweeter twist.
Enhance the fruity flavors with a drizzle of balsamic dressing for a tangy balance.

Herb Alternatives

If you do not like cilantro, substitute it with parsley for a milder, herbaceous flavor.

Include Cheese

Add a creamy and tangy element with feta cheese, goat cheese, or shredded parmesan.
Try using copper kettle cheese to complement the guacamole’s sweetness for a bolder flavor.

These substitutions and variations allow you to experiment and make your guacamole bold, sweet, or unique, ensuring it’s always a hit at the table!

What to Serve with Pomegranate Seed Guacamole

This pomegranate guacamole is versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes:

Classic Pairings: Serve with tortilla chips for a traditional, satisfying option. To elevate the experience, opt for sea salt lime chips, Tostitos scoops or thin’ n crisp tortilla chips.
Healthy Options: Pair with veggie sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers for a light, nutritious choice.
As a Topping, Add a dollop to tacos, burritos, salads, grilled chicken, a turkey sandwich, or mahi mahi fish tacos for a flavorful boost.
Mexican-Inspired Meals: Use it to complement ground chicken enchiladas, shrimp fajitas, or street tacos.
Party Perfect: Pair with Cilantro Lime Rice or create a festive spread for holidays or summer gatherings.

Its light, creamy, and refreshing flavors make it ideal for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant parties.

Storage Tips

To store guacamole, transfer it to an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure, which prevents browning. Keep it refrigerated for up to two days. Fresh guacamole tastes best, so consume it quickly for maximum flavor.

Tools to Eat Pomegranate Seed Guacamole

Scoop and Dip: Use sturdy tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for scooping.
Serving Utensils: Small spoons or forks work well when using guacamole as a topping.

Try It Today!

Experience the magic of pomegranate guacamole for yourself! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fresh addition to your weeknight meals, or experimenting with new recipes, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Make it your own with creative variations, and let us know your favorite way to serve it in the comments below. Enjoy this festive, flavorful, and healthy recipe with friends and family!

If you like this recipe make sure to check out some of my other favorites for taco night!

One pan chicken tacos

Easy Beef Taquitos Recipe

Fresh Pico de Gallo

beef tacos recipe

Print Recipe

Pomegranate Seed Guacamole: A Festive Holiday Delight

Cooking Method: Mixing, Raw Cuisine: American, Mexican Courses: Appetizer Recipe Keys: Cold Dairy Free Gluten Free Keto Paleo Raw Soy Free Whole30

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 120

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year, Summer, Fall

Description

Discover a fresh twist with Pomegranate Seed Guacamole! Creamy, tangy, sweet, gluten-free, and dairy-free—this easy recipe is ready in minutes for any occasion.

Directions

1. Scoop avocado flesh into a bowl.
2. Mash with a fork until creamy.
3. Mix in onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Fold in pomegranate seeds.
5. Serve fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g16%
Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Protein 2g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Pomegranate Seed Guacamole, Mexican Pomegranate, Guac With Pomegranate, Guacamole and Pomegranate Recipe, Pomegranate Seed Recipes

Recipe Card powered by

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

1. How do you store homemade guacamole?

To store homemade guacamole and keep it fresh, place it in an airtight container to minimize air exposure, which causes browning. For extra protection, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before sealing the container. Adding fresh lime juice on top can also help slow oxidation due to its acidity. Always refrigerate guacamole if not consumed immediately, as it can stay fresh for 2–3 days. If slight browning occurs, scrape off the top layer, stir, and enjoy the fresh guacamole underneath.

2. How to pick the perfect avocado?

To pick the perfect avocado, start by checking its firmness. A ripe avocado should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed but not mushy. Avoid avocados with overly squishy spots or indentations, which may indicate bruising or over-ripeness. The skin should be darker, almost black-green, for most varieties like Hass avocados, though this can vary. Another tip is to flick the small stem at the top gently—if it comes off easily and reveals green underneath, the avocado is ripe. If it's brown, the fruit inside may be overripe. Always inspect for any cracks or blemishes on the skin and choose one that feels heavy for its size, which often indicates freshness and quality.

3. How do you de-seed a pomegranate?

To de-seed a pomegranate using this method, cut off the pomegranate's crown with a knife. Next, score the skin from top to bottom into sections, making shallow cuts through the skin without cutting into the seeds. Submerge the pomegranate in a water bowl, and use your fingers to gently pull apart the sections and detach the seeds from the white membrane. The seeds will sink to the bottom while the membrane floats to the top, making it easy to skim off. Once done, drain the water, and your pomegranate seeds are ready to enjoy!

4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this pomegranate guacamole recipe can be considered keto-friendly when consumed in moderation. The main ingredients, like avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice, are all low in carbs and rich in healthy fats, which align with a keto diet. While pomegranate seeds contain some natural sugars, their carb content is minimal when used sparingly as a garnish in the recipe. To keep it fully keto-compliant, serve the guacamole with low-carb options like veggie sticks (e.g., celery, cucumber, or bell peppers) instead of tortilla chips. Always be mindful of portion sizes to maintain your daily carb limits.

5. What can I substitute for lime juice?

If you don't have lime juice, you can substitute it with other acidic ingredients to maintain the tangy flavor in your guacamole. Lemon juice is the best alternative, offering a similar bright and citrusy taste. Apple cider or white vinegar can also work in smaller amounts, providing acidity without overwhelming the dish. If you want a milder option, try a splash of orange juice, which adds a subtle sweetness alongside the acidity. These substitutes will help preserve the guacamole's fresh flavor and prevent the avocado from browning.

6. Can I freeze guacamole?

Yes, you can freeze guacamole, but it's important to do it properly to preserve its flavor and texture. To freeze guacamole, ensure it doesn't include ingredients like tomatoes or pomegranate seeds, as these can become watery after thawing. Instead, freeze the base with avocado, lime juice, and seasonings like salt, onion, and cilantro. Place the guacamole in an airtight container, leaving as little air as possible, or seal it in a freezer bag with the air pressed out to prevent browning. Frozen guacamole can last up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator, stir well, and add any fresh ingredients like tomatoes or pomegranate seeds just before serving.

Pomegranate Seed Guacamole: A Festive Holiday Delight

Inspiration and Origins

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Perfect for Every Occasion

Why You Will Love Pomegranate Seed Guacamole

Ingredients