How to Keep Guacamole From Turning Brown: 4 Different Solutions for The Perfect Guacamole

Guacamole—fresh, creamy, and beautifully green—might just be the king of Mexican dips. But let’s be honest, it’s like you’re in a race the moment you make it, trying to beat the clock before it turns into a brown, less-than-appetizing mess. Why does this happen? It’s all about oxidation. When avocados hit the air, they react and start to brown. While it’s still safe to eat, no one wants to serve guac that looks like it’s seen better days. So, how do you keep it looking as vibrant as it tastes? Luckily, there’s more than one way!

How to Keep Guacamole Bright Green in The Fridge

For those who want to store guacamole in the fridge without it turning brown, try the old avocado pit trick. Once you’ve made your guacamole, nestle a few of the leftover pits into the dip before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or sealing it in an airtight container. The pits slow down the oxidation process. Add an extra squeeze of lime juice for good measure, and it can last fresh for up to two days. Just remove the pits before serving!

How to Keep Your Guacamole Green Overnight

If you’re prepping guac ahead of time and want it to stay green overnight, olive oil is your best friend. After making the guacamole, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before covering it with plastic wrap or putting it in an airtight container. The oil acts as a protective seal, blocking out oxygen. The next day, simply pour off the oil or stir it into the guac for a little extra flavor. Easy, and it works like a charm!

How to Keep Guacamole From Turning Brown During a Party

Serving guacamole at a party and worried it’ll brown before your guests finish it? Cover it with lettuce! Simply lay a couple of large leaves of romaine or butter lettuce over the top of the guacamole while it’s sitting out. The leaves act as a barrier between the dip and the air, keeping it fresher longer. Once you’re ready to serve, just lift the lettuce off, give the guac a stir, and enjoy! Plus, it adds a nice little visual element when guests ask what the lettuce is for.

How Do Mexican Restaurants Keep Guacamole So Green?

So, how do Mexican restaurants keep their guacamole from turning brown while serving it all day long? The secret is all in using lime juice and water. Before storing or serving guacamole, many restaurants will smooth it out and then pour a thin layer of lime juice or water over the top. This extra liquid layer creates a barrier that keeps the air from getting in, while the acidity of the lime juice helps slow oxidation even further. To replicate this at home, smooth out your guacamole in a container or dish, pour a little water or lime juice on top, and then simply pour it off or stir it in before serving.