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Flavorful Layered Guacamole Dip Recipe with Pico de Gallo and Cotija Cheese for Easy Entertaining

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A fresh and creamy layered guacamole dip featuring a smooth avocado base, vibrant pico de gallo, and salty cotija cheese, perfect for parties and casual snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup white onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Optional: a handful of sliced black olives or chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Guacamole Base: In a medium bowl, scoop out the avocado flesh. Add the lime juice, kosher salt, ground cumin, and minced garlic. Mash together with a fork or potato masher until desired consistency is reached, smooth with a few chunks. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. (5-7 minutes)
  2. Make the Pico de Gallo: Combine diced Roma tomatoes, chopped onion, minced jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a separate small bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes to meld flavors.
  3. Layer the Dip: Spread the guacamole evenly on the bottom of a serving dish in about a 1-inch thick layer.
  4. Add the Pico de Gallo: Spoon the pico de gallo evenly over the guacamole layer without mixing to keep layers distinct.
  5. Top with Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese generously over the pico layer. Add optional black olives or green onions if desired.
  6. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. It can be served immediately if short on time.
  7. Serve with Chips: Scoop with sturdy tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice to prevent browning and enhance flavor. Cover dip tightly with plastic wrap touching the surface to minimize air exposure. Adjust jalapeño seeds for heat preference. If guacamole is too thick, add a splash of water or more lime juice. Drain excess juice from pico de gallo to avoid soggy chips. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; stir gently before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: guacamole, layered dip, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, party dip, easy appetizer, Mexican dip, fresh dip