Can You Freeze Guacamole?
Yes, but it’s important to have realistic expectations.
Nothing tastes better than fresh guacamole that is bursting with flavor from the combination of fresh produce, zesty lime juice, and buttery avocados.
Whether served alongside a batch of freshly made corn chips, on top of fajitas, or as a topping for a taco bar, guacamole is undeniably delicious. But what happens when the party's over and there’s still half a bowl of guacamole leftover? Can it be frozen?
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
The short answer is yes, you can freeze guacamole. The longer explanation for how to do it and what to expect is a bit more complicated.
Meet The Expert
Chelsea Edwards is a Registered Dietitian and the owner of Huntsville Nutrition Collective in Huntsville, Alabama.
What To Know About Freezing Guacamole
Thankfully, you can freeze guacamole, but it takes a few important steps and an important disclaimer. “Avocados that have been frozen and then defrosted lose their buttery texture during the defrosting process,” Edwards explains. “So, while you can freeze guacamole, it's not going to taste as good. Additionally, some of the ingredients many people put in guacamole, like tomatoes, do not freeze well.”
For best results, Edwards recommends only freezing basic guacamole recipes that do not include ingredients like tomatoes to avoid a watery mess – and broken texture – when thawed.
How To Freeze Guacamole
Place guacamole in an airtight plastic bag, removing all extra air, and freezing flat.
Make sure to label and date the bag before placing it in the freezer.
The USDA’s FoodKeeper app says that frozen guacamole should be consumed within three to four months, if frozen from the date of purchase.
Related: My Mom's Easy Trick For Keeping Guacamole Green Works Every Time
How To Defrost Guacamole
Edwards tells Southern Living that guacamole can easily be defrosted in the refrigerator 12 to 24 hours before consumption.
“The lime juice in guacamole tends to help it from browning for up to a day or two, but it is best consumed when made fresh, hence why table side guacamole tends to be so enjoyable,” Edwards says.
Bottom line: Avocados are always in season, so while it might be convenient to have frozen guacamole on hand when you need it, the quality of your guacamole will likely suffer.
“Just because you can freeze something doesn't mean you should,” Edwards says.
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Read the original article on Southern Living.
