Introduction
While traditional guacamole has been a beloved party staple for decades, I’ve discovered an exciting twist that’ll revolutionize your dip game. By adding sweet green peas and nutty hemp hearts to the classic avocado base, you’ll create a vibrant, nutrient-packed spread that maintains all the creamy goodness you love.
I started experimenting with this recipe when looking for ways to stretch my avocados during price spikes, and I was amazed by the results. You’ll find this version stays fresher longer than traditional guac, thanks to the peas’ natural preservation properties. Plus, it’s packed with extra protein and vitamins that you won’t get from regular guacamole. Whether you’re health-conscious or just love trying new flavors, this green pea guacamole is sure to become your new go-to dip.
Recipe
Green Pea Guacamole is a modern twist on traditional Mexican guacamole that combines the creamy richness of avocados with the sweet, fresh taste of green peas. This unique variation maintains the beloved texture of classic guacamole while adding extra nutrients and a vibrant green color.
The addition of hemp hearts brings a subtle nutty flavor and boost of protein, while lime juice adds brightness and helps preserve the dip’s color. This versatile spread can be used as a dip for vegetables and tortilla chips, or as a creamy addition to sandwiches, wraps, and Mexican dishes.
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
- 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
- 1 lime, juiced
- 3 tablespoons hemp hearts
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Begin by placing the thawed green peas in a food processor and pulse until smooth. Add the avocado flesh, lime juice, hemp hearts, and sea salt to the processor. Pulse the mixture until well combined but still maintaining some texture, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lime juice if desired. Transfer the finished guacamole to a serving bowl.
For best results, verify the peas are completely thawed and drained of excess water before processing. To prevent browning, place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole before refrigerating. The pea content helps maintain the bright green color longer than traditional guacamole, but it’s best consumed within 24 hours. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a small amount of lime juice or water to achieve desired consistency.
Prep Time
This easy pea guacamole comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect last-minute party dip or quick weeknight spread. You’ll spend about 5 minutes thawing and draining the peas, which you can do while gathering your other ingredients. Taking the time to properly drain the peas prevents your guacamole from becoming watery later.
The actual hands-on prep work is minimal. You’ll need 2-3 minutes to halve and pit your avocados, juice your lime, and measure out your hemp hearts. Once everything’s ready, it’s just 5-7 minutes of processing – first the peas until smooth, then adding the remaining ingredients until you’ve reached your desired consistency. I like to pause and scrape down the sides of the processor bowl once or twice for even blending.
Equipment needed
Making this vibrant pea guacamole requires just three essential pieces of kitchen equipment. You’ll need a food processor or high-powered blender to achieve that perfectly smooth texture for your peas and avocado mixture. Don’t worry if you’ve got a smaller processor – it’ll work just fine!
You’ll also want a good cutting board and a sharp knife for prepping your avocados. I learned the hard way that a dull knife can turn avocado prep into a messy situation. Finally, grab a rubber spatula – it’s perfect for scraping every last bit of that green goodness from your processor bowl and folding in any final ingredients. If you’re planning to store your guacamole, you’ll also want an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid.
Basic Cooking Method and Time
Preparing this vibrant guacamole takes just 10 minutes from start to finish, with no actual cooking required! You’ll start by pulsing your thawed peas in the food processor until they’re smooth – this should take about 30 seconds. Next, add your ripe avocado flesh, fresh lime juice, hemp hearts, and salt to the processor.
Give everything another quick pulse until it’s well combined but still has some texture – about 15-20 seconds. I like to keep mine slightly chunky, but you can process longer if you prefer it smoother. Just remember not to overprocess, or you’ll lose that perfect consistency. Once you’ve reached your desired texture, do a quick taste test and adjust the seasoning. That’s it – you’re ready to serve or store!
Cooking Steps
Let’s plunge into creating this colorful and nutritious dip!
To make your green pea guacamole, start by thawing your frozen peas completely and draining any excess water. Place them in your food processor and pulse until they’re smooth but not completely pureed. Next, scoop out the flesh of your ripe avocados and add them to the processor, along with fresh lime juice, hemp hearts, and sea salt.
Process everything until you’ve reached your desired consistency – I like mine slightly chunky for added texture. Remember to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Give it a taste, and feel free to adjust the seasonings. You’ll love how the peas add a subtle sweetness while keeping that classic creamy texture we all crave in guacamole.
Step 1. Thaw Frozen Peas Completely
While it might be tempting to rush ahead with partially thawed peas, taking the time to properly thaw your frozen peas is essential for the perfect green pea guacamole. You’ll want to start by placing your frozen peas in a colander and running them under cool water for about 2 minutes. Once they’re no longer frozen, let them drain completely – I usually give them a gentle shake and let them sit for 5-10 minutes.
Here’s a pro tip I’ve learned from experience: pat the peas dry with a paper towel before adding them to your food processor. Excess moisture can make your guacamole too runny and dilute those amazing flavors we’re trying to create. Trust me, this extra step is worth the effort!
Step 2. Pulse Avocado Until Smooth
Once you’ve got those perfectly thawed peas ready, it’s time to tackle the star ingredient – your avocados. Cut each avocado in half lengthwise, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into your food processor. You’ll want to look for avocados that yield slightly when squeezed for the smoothest texture.
Start pulsing the avocados in short bursts, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. You’re aiming for a consistency that’s creamy but still has some small chunks – this gives your guacamole that perfect texture we all love. Don’t overprocess, or you’ll end up with a paste rather than a dip. I’ve learned from experience that 5-7 pulses usually does the trick, but you can adjust based on your preferred consistency.
Step 3. Add Lime Juice Now
After you’ve achieved that perfect avocado consistency, it’s time to add the lime juice for that essential citrusy kick. I’ve found that one fresh lime is enough to both brighten the flavor and help prevent browning, thanks to its natural preservative properties. You’ll want to squeeze it directly over your mixture, making sure to catch any seeds with your free hand.
Don’t skimp on this step – the acid from the lime juice isn’t just about taste. It’s actually working double duty by keeping your guacamole fresh longer and enhancing the flavors of both the peas and avocado. If your limes are a bit firm, try rolling them on the counter under your palm first to help release more juice.
Step 4. Add Hemp Hearts Gradually
Since hemp hearts add both texture and nutrition to this unique guacamole, I’ve learned it’s best to sprinkle them in gradually while stirring. When I first started making this recipe, I dumped all the hemp hearts in at once, which created uneven clumps throughout the dip. Now I add one tablespoon at a time, gently folding them into the avocado-pea mixture.
You’ll notice the hemp hearts create tiny pops of nutty crunch that complement the smooth texture perfectly. I love watching my guests try to guess the secret ingredient! If you’re concerned about texture, try crushing the hemp hearts slightly before adding them – it’ll give you a more uniform consistency while still maintaining their nutritional benefits. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference in the final result.
Step 5. Season to Taste Carefully
While traditional guacamole relies heavily on salt and lime, I’ve discovered that seasoning this pea-based version requires a more delicate touch. The natural sweetness of the peas means you’ll want to start with just half the recommended salt, then adjust gradually to find your perfect balance.
I’ve found it’s best to add lime juice in small increments, tasting after each addition. Since both peas and hemp hearts bring their own subtle flavors, you don’t want to overwhelm them. When I make this for friends, I’ll often reserve a pinch of hemp hearts to sprinkle on top – it adds a nice visual touch and lets guests know what’s inside. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away!
Customization Options
Three delicious ways to customize this green pea guacamole have become my go-to variations when I’m looking to switch things up. First, try adding 1/4 cup of fresh mint and a handful of pistachios for a Mediterranean twist that’ll wow your guests. You can also spice things up by mixing in a diced jalapeño and some fresh cilantro – I love this version on fish tacos! For a protein-packed variation that’s perfect for breakfast toast, fold in some crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. I’ve found these add-ins work beautifully with the base recipe while keeping that signature creamy texture you’re looking for. Just remember to taste and adjust the salt level when trying these variations.
Ingredients list (with precise measurements)
The essential ingredients you’ll need for this vibrant green pea guacamole come together quickly with items you might already have in your kitchen. You’ll want to gather:
- 2 ripe avocados, flesh scooped out
- 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed completely
- 1 fresh lime for juicing
- 3 tablespoons hemp hearts
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
I’ve found that choosing avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure will give you the creamiest texture. Don’t worry if you can’t find hemp hearts at your regular grocery store – they’re usually stocked in the health food section or near the nuts and seeds. Make sure your peas are thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent excess water from making your guacamole too runny.
Storage Information
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s make sure your green pea guacamole stays fresh and vibrant. The great news is that this version lasts longer than traditional guacamole, thanks to those bright green peas!
To store your dip properly, you’ll want to transfer it to an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole – this prevents air from getting in and causing that dreaded brown color. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though it’s always best served fresh. If you notice any liquid separation after storing, just give it a quick stir before serving. Trust me, the hemp hearts and peas help maintain that gorgeous green color much longer than classic guac!
Health Benefits or Special Features
While traditional guacamole already packs a nutritious punch, this green pea version takes the health benefits to a whole new level! You’ll get a protein boost from the hemp hearts, plus extra fiber and vitamin C from those bright green peas. The combination helps keep you feeling full longer while supporting your immune system.
What I love about this recipe is how it delivers omega-3 fatty acids from both the avocados and hemp hearts. You’re also getting a good dose of potassium, vitamin K, and antioxidants. If you’re watching your calories, you’ll appreciate that the peas help stretch the avocado content while reducing the overall fat content per serving. Plus, the lighter texture makes it perfect for those who find traditional guacamole too rich.
Prep Time
Getting this vibrant green pea guacamole ready takes just 10 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 3 minutes thawing and draining the peas, 2 minutes gathering and measuring your ingredients, and 5 minutes combining everything in the food processor.
While your peas are thawing, you can prep the other ingredients. I like to cut and scoop the avocados, juice the lime, and measure out the hemp hearts. Once everything’s ready, you’ll simply add the ingredients to your food processor in order – peas first, then avocado, lime juice, hemp hearts, and salt. Give it a few quick pulses, and you’re done! The whole process is so quick, you’ll have time to slice up some veggies or grab your favorite chips for dipping.
Cook Time
The beauty of this green pea guacamole is that there’s zero cooking required! You’ll only need to thaw your frozen peas completely before getting started – I usually let mine sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. While traditional guacamole recipes often call for roasted garlic or charred jalapeños, this version keeps things wonderfully simple.
Just make sure your peas are thoroughly drained of any excess water before processing. I’ve learned from experience that wet peas can make your guacamole too runny. The only “cooking” decision you’ll need to make is whether to let your hemp hearts toast slightly – though I prefer them raw for maximum nutritional benefits. From start to finish, you’re looking at a no-cook recipe that’s ready in minutes.
Total Time
From prep to table, you’ll need just 15 minutes to whip up this vibrant green pea guacamole. I love how quickly this recipe comes together, especially when you’ve planned ahead and thawed your peas beforehand. The actual hands-on prep work takes about 10 minutes, while the remaining 5 minutes involve tasting and adjusting the seasonings to your liking.
If you’re making this for a party, you can even prepare it a day in advance – the peas help maintain that gorgeous green color longer than traditional guac. Just remember to factor in thawing time for your frozen peas, which usually takes about 30 minutes at room temperature or a few hours in the fridge. You’ll save time by having all your ingredients ready to go before you start processing.
Yield
While this quick 15-minute recipe is perfect for busy schedules, you’ll be pleased to know it yields a generous amount – about 2½ cups of creamy green pea guacamole. That’s enough to serve 8-10 people as a party appetizer or keep your family snacking happily throughout the week.
I love how versatile this portion size is. You can divide it into smaller containers for packed lunches, or serve it all at once for a gathering. If you’re hosting a larger party, just double the recipe – it scales up beautifully. And since this version stays fresh longer than traditional guacamole, you won’t have to worry about making it at the last minute. The recipe’s yield is ideal for meal prep too, giving you plenty of healthy spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Final Thoughts
After experimenting with countless guacamole variations, I’m convinced this green pea version deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection. You’ll love how the peas add a subtle sweetness while keeping the dip’s signature creamy texture. I’ve found that even guacamole purists eventually come around to this twist on the classic.
Beyond the amazing taste, you’re getting extra nutrition from the peas and hemp hearts – something I really appreciate when serving this to my family. The fact that it stays fresh and green longer than traditional guacamole is just a bonus. Whether you’re making it for a party or meal prep, this recipe’s got you covered. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll wonder why you didn’t add peas to your guacamole sooner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Chia Seeds for Hemp Hearts in This Recipe?
You can substitute chia seeds for hemp hearts, though you’ll get a different texture and slightly nutty flavor. Use 2 tablespoons instead of 3, since chia seeds expand when moistened.
Will This Guacamole Taste Significantly Different From Traditional Mexican Guacamole?
You’ll notice a difference – the peas add sweetness and the hemp hearts bring nuttiness to the mix. While it’s still creamy and fresh-tasting, it’s milder than traditional Mexican guacamole.
How Spicy Is This Version of Guacamole?
Unlike traditional spicy guacamole, you’ll find this version isn’t hot at all – there aren’t any jalapeños or chilis. You can easily add heat by mixing in your favorite spicy ingredients.
Can I Use Canned Peas Instead of Frozen Peas?
You can use canned peas, but they’ll give a mushier texture and less vibrant color. For best results, stick with frozen peas – they’re fresher and maintain better flavor and consistency.
Does This Recipe Work Well for Meal Prep Containers?
You’ll find this works great for meal prep! The peas help prevent browning, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 24 hours when stored with plastic wrap directly touching the surface.
Conclusion
You’ve just revealed a fresh spin on guacamole that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Like a chameleon adapting to its surroundings, this versatile dip works perfectly from casual snacking to elegant entertaining. With its vibrant color, protein boost from hemp hearts, and longer-lasting freshness, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this genius pea-avocado combo sooner. Give it a whirl – your chips will thank you!
