20-Minute Pepita Feta Guacamole
A protein-rich twist on traditional guacamole featuring toasted pepitas and tangy feta cheese. The pumpkin seeds add satisfying crunch and nutty flavor while the pickled jalapeños provide bright heat balanced by creamy avocado. Perfect for keto gatherings, game day snacking, or as a sophisticated appetizer. The combination of textures and the salty-spicy-creamy flavor profile makes this guacamole more substantial and interesting than basic versions.
Ingredients
- 2 large avocados
- 2 small green onions, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp pickled jalapeño peppersfresh jalapeño1:2heat
more intense heat, less tang
- sea salt, to taste(optional)
- pepper, to taste(optional)
- 2 tbsp feta, crumbled
- 1 tbsp fresh jalapeño, chopped(optional)fresh jalapeño1:2heat
more intense heat, less tang
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs, roughly chopped (cilantro or parsley)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare all ingredients
- 2
Heat a dry frypan over low-medium heat and add pepitas
- 3
Spread pepitas in single layer and cook 3-5 minutes, shaking pan occasionally
- 4
Remove pepitas when they pop and start browning, transfer to bowl immediately
- 5
Finely chop pickled jalapeño and thinly slice green onions
- 6
Mash avocado with lime juice and season with salt and pepper
- 7
Stir in pickled jalapeño, half the green onions, and half the pepitas
- 8
Scoop into serving bowl
- 9
Sprinkle with remaining pepitas, green onions, and chopped herbs
- 10
Serve immediately with low-carb crackers, cucumber slices, or bell pepper slices
Tips
Toast pepitas until they pop and start browning for maximum flavor and crunch, but transfer immediately to prevent burning
Use half the mix-ins first, then garnish with remaining ingredients for best presentation and texture contrast
Keep avocado pits in leftover guacamole and press plastic wrap directly onto surface to minimize browning
Good to Know
2-3 days refrigerated in sealed container
best served immediately, can make 2 hours ahead
with low-carb crackers, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips
Common Mistakes
remove pepitas from hot pan immediately to avoid burning
press plastic wrap directly onto guacamole surface to prevent browning
Substitutions
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
more intense heat, less tang
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Best served immediately for optimal texture and color, though you can prepare up to 2 hours ahead. Press plastic wrap directly onto surface and refrigerate.
What if I don't have pepitas?
Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds, chopped toasted almonds, or pine nuts using the same amount and toasting method for similar crunch.
How long will this keep in the fridge?
Store in sealed container for 2-3 days. Keep avocado pits in leftovers and press plastic wrap onto surface to minimize browning.