Hearts of Palm Guacamole

This was inspired by two other wonderful hearts of palm recipes: Ensalada De Palmitos (Hearts of Palm Salad) and Avocado Salad With Hearts of Palm. It's great smooth and creamy or chunky with the tomatoes and onion added. If you like heat add a minced jalapeno or cayenne pepper. It tastes close to regular guacamole but is healthier. Hearts of palm are full of nutrients and low calorie.

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 12
• Yields: 3 cups

Ingredients

• 1 (14 ounce) can hearts of palm, drained
• 1⁄2-3⁄4 cup cilantro, packed
• 2 -3  fresh garlic cloves, minced
• 1⁄2  lemon, juice of
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 3  avocados
• 1  teaspoon ground cumin, more to taste
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt, more to taste
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper, more to taste
• 1⁄2 cup red onion, chopped (optional)
• 1⁄2 cup tomatoes, chopped (optional)
•  jalapenos (if heat is desired) or  cayenne pepper, to taste (if heat is desired)

Directions

1. Place hearts of palm, cilantro, minced garlic, lemon juice and olive oil in a medium bowl.
2. Use an immersion blender to puree. A food processor or blender could be used also.
3. Mash the avocados into the puree mix with the back of a fork.
4. Stir in spices.
5. Stir in tomato and onion and jalapeno or cayenne if desired.
6. Use it just as you would regular guacamole.