How To Turn Leftover Guacamole Into A Creamy Salad Dressing

The perfect combination of creamy, salty, and zingy, guacamole is always a favorite. Whether you're making the best basic guacamole recipe or switching things up with extra ingredients for a new take on the classic, its versatility means the dip is something you never get bored of eating. However, if you've made too much, or you've got leftovers after a party, it also makes a useful ingredient to transform other dishes, such as salads.

Using guac as the base for a salad dressing makes sense for several reasons. It adds a creamy richness to the dressing, and complements the flavors of all sorts of different ingredients, from chicken or bacon to leafy green vegetables such as spinach or kale. As an added advantage, the acid in the lemon juice or vinegar in the dressing also slows the browning of the avocado, ensuring it retains its attractive, fresh green color for longer.

But the real beauty of guacamole salad dressing is how easy it is to use it as a base for lots of different styles and flavors. Whether you're craving gentle creaminess or a hit of spice, there's a guac dressing that will tick all the boxes and help take your salads to the next level.

One of the simplest salad dressings to make with leftover guacamole is a basic vinaigrette. Simply whisk together two parts guacamole to one part each of olive oil and vinegar, seasoning to taste. Sherry vinegar is particularly effective due to its rounded, nutty flavors. For an enhanced creamy avocado taste, consider substituting olive oil with avocado oil for an additional boost.

If you're in the mood for something creamy yet tangy, blend the guacamole with sour cream, garlic, lime, salt, and aromatic cilantro. This combination pairs wonderfully with a taco salad. Alternatively, mix the guacamole with mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, white vinegar, and seasonings for a unique twist on ranch dressing. The avocado lends extra richness and a pleasing texture to the tart, creamy dressing.

In search of a spicier option? Try a Mexican-style salad dressing by blending the guacamole with fresh cilantro, lime juice, onion, heavy cream, and half a hot serrano pepper. This creates a burst of bright, zesty flavors with a heat kick, perfect for enhancing any simple salad. Or, for a vegan-friendly dressing, use the guacamole as a dairy substitute by blending it with water, olive oil, fresh lime juice, salt, garlic, and some chopped and seeded jalapeño chiles.

While salad dressings are a great way to use up leftover guacamole, there are plenty of other ways to incorporate this green goodness into other dishes too. One option is using it as a substitute for mayonnaise. Try replacing mayo with guac for a creamy egg salad or chicken salad, adding plenty of flavor and texture. Or, spread the leftover guac on sandwiches; it pairs well with everything from tuna or turkey to the ultimate BLT sandwich recipe, and it's delicious in a grilled cheese sandwich.

For a refreshing lunch, blend leftover guacamole with water, milk, and some fresh lemon juice to create a chilled avocado soup. You could also elevate a pizza by spreading guac on the base instead of tomato sauce, and garnishing it with your favorite toppings.

Guac can even be used for a creamy, dairy-free pasta sauce. Simply mix it with fresh garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, add a little pasta water, and toss it with spaghetti for a rich sauce. Feel free to add extra vegetables for texture. Alternatively, try baking with it; incorporating it into the mix for scones or muffins makes for a tasty lunchbox treat or snack.