Fresh Guacamole with a Twist: Orange Juice Instead of Lime
Sneak Peek: This fresh guacamole recipe ditches the usual lime or lemon juice for a splash of fresh orange juice, giving it a unique, subtly sweet twist. It’s chunky, flavorful, and completely customizable—no raw onions here (unless you want them)!

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Who doesn’t love a little secret ingredient that takes a classic recipe to the next level? If you’re a guacamole fan, this one’s for you! Instead of lime or lemon juice, this recipe uses fresh orange juice for a slightly sweeter, more balanced flavor.
I picked up this trick from the servers at Boudro’s, a fantastic spot on the San Antonio Riverwalk. Trust me—it works!
Happy Cooks Speak Up:
Just made this. It was really excellent. Topped it of with a beer of my choice. Thanks for the recipe! — Chris
What’s the Best Way to Buy Avocados?
Avoid bruised or overripe avocados with these tips:
- Buy them firm: Choose green, rock-hard avocados a few days before you need them.
- Ripen on the counter: Let them sit at room temperature until they yield slightly at the stem end.
- Store in the fridge: Once ripe, keep them in the produce drawer to slow further ripening.
- Same-day shopping? Head to a high-end grocery store or fresh market where avocados are handled with more care.
You can read more about how I buy avocados here.
Can I Use Something Other Than Orange Juice?
Absolutely! If you prefer a more traditional taste, swap in:
- Lime juice
- Lemon juice
- A mix of both
How Do You Like Your Guacamole?
Guacamole is as personal as a favorite meatloaf or potato salad recipe. Some like it chunky, others smooth. I’m a fan of a heartier texture, so I chop my avocados instead of mashing them completely.
What Can You Add to Guacamole?
Make it your own with these flavorful additions:
- Heat it up: A few dashes of hot sauce (like Tabasco Green or Frank’s Red Hot)
- Boost the flavor: Fresh garlic, garlic powder, or chopped onions
- Make it extra fresh: Pico de gallo or a spicier salsa
Serving Ideas
Sure, guacamole and chips are a classic, but don’t stop there!
- Spread it on BLTs or a San Antonio Bean Burger.
- Use it as a toast topper.
- Pair it with tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
Serve guacamole as a dip with corn or tortilla chips. I also like guacamole on sandwiches like a BLT or a San Antonio Bean Burger. Try guacamole on toast (spread like jelly) or use it as a condiment alongside other Texas Tamale Pie or Green Chile Enchiladas.
How To Make Fresh Guacamole with Orange Juice

How Should I Store Leftover Guacamole?
The best way I’ve found is to flatten a piece of plastic wrap on top of the guacamole (to keep out the oxygen) in a small Mason jar. Use a portable vacuum sealer to seal the jar. I’ve tried other methods, but this works best for me.
Final Thoughts
This guacamole is fresh, vibrant, and slightly unexpected. If you’ve never tried orange juice in guacamole before, now’s the time. Give it a go and let me know what you think!
[Inspired by the guacamole at Boudro’s? Check out their website for the original recipe.]
Need help troubleshooting? Please email me: Paula at saladinajar.com–photos welcome!
Paula Rhodes, owner
As a retired home economist, I created Saladinajar.com to share my belief that you don’t have to be a chef to find joy in creating homemade food worth sharing. Bread machines (used in an unconventional way), homemade yogurt, and quick microwave recipes are my specialty.