Avocado Relish with Lemon and Paprika

Introduction

You mash 2-3 avocados with lemon juice, paprika, and salt, then let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the seasoning settles in. The result is a simple avocado relish that works as a dip, sandwich spread, or quick side for grilled meat or eggs.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2-3 avocados
• Paprika, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Remove the avocado flesh from the peel and pit.
2. Mash the avocado flesh with the remaining ingredients.
3. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Replace the paprika with smoked paprika if you want a deeper, more savory flavor.
• Increase the 1 teaspoon lemon juice to 2 teaspoons for a sharper taste and a slightly looser texture.
• Mash the avocados less in step 2 if you want a chunkier relish that works better spooned over toast or grilled meat.
• Add a small amount of finely diced red onion for crunch and a stronger savory bite.
• Stir in chopped cilantro at the end for a fresher, greener finish.

Tips for Success

• Use avocados that give slightly when pressed; firm avocados will stay lumpy and taste flat.
• Mash after adding the lemon juice, paprika, and salt so the seasoning spreads evenly through the avocado.
• Taste after the first mash, then adjust the salt and paprika while the mixture is still easy to mix.
• Let it sit the full 5-10 minutes before serving; the paprika and salt become more balanced after a short rest.

Storage and Reheating

Store the relish in an airtight container in the fridge with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to limit browning. It keeps best for 1 day and is still usable on day 2, though the color and texture will decline.

FAQ

Can you make this ahead of time?

You can make it a few hours ahead, but it is best the same day. Press wrap directly onto the surface to slow browning.

Can you use lime juice instead of lemon juice?

Yes. Lime juice gives a slightly sharper, more assertive citrus flavor but works the same way in the recipe.

How smooth should the avocado be?

That depends on how you plan to serve it. Keep it slightly chunky for topping and more fully mashed if you want a spread or dip.

What if the avocados are very large or very small?

Start with the listed lemon juice, paprika, and salt, then adjust after mashing. Larger avocados usually need a little more seasoning to avoid tasting bland.