Winter Guacamole

Many of my happiest summer memories include a spicy bowl of guacamole and an icy salt-rimmed Margarita. Since winter still provides terrific avocados but not great guacamole mix-ins, I devised this hearty and unconventional cold-weather variation to inspire rhapsodic winter memories as well.

3 ripe avocados, preferably Hass
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 scallions, trimmed and finely minced
2 small jalapeiio chiles, stemmed, seeded, and minced
4 sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and minced 
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
5 slices bacon, cooked crisp and coarsely crumbled
3 tablespoons minced cilantro (fresh coriander) 
Salt to taste


Pit and peel the avocados and mash the pulp in a medium-size mixing bowl to a chunky consistency (a large wooden spoon or potato masher works well). Add the lime juice, scallions, jalapeno chiles, and sun-dried tomatoes, then fold in the cheese, bacon, and cilantro. Season to taste with salt. Serve the guacamole as soon as possible to keep the bacon crisp. Accompany with your favorite chips for dipping.
Makes 3 to 4 cups