Guava is a tropical fruit full of surprises—sweet, aromatic, and packed with vitamin C and fiber. It’s not only great to eat on its own but also a delicious ingredient for light, easy vegetarian meals. Whether ripe and soft or crisp and green, guava can add an exotic flair to salads, smoothies, chutneys, and more. Here are 7 simple guava recipes that bring fresh flavor and tropical vibes to your everyday meals—no meat needed!
1. Guava Smoothie Bowl
A smoothie bowl made with guava is a nutritious and refreshing start to the day. Blend ripe guava (remove seeds if preferred) with banana, a splash of plant-based milk, and a handful of strawberries or mango for natural sweetness. Pour into a bowl and top with sliced fruits, granola, chia seeds, or shredded coconut. This smoothie bowl is not only beautiful but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
2. Guava Chutney
A tangy and spicy guava chutney can brighten up any meal. Cook diced guava with ginger, green chilies, lemon juice, cumin seeds, and a bit of jaggery or brown sugar until it softens into a chunky spread. It’s perfect as a dip with snacks like samosas or crackers, or as a zesty side with rice dishes. This recipe brings out the unique flavor of guava with bold Indian spices.
3. Guava & Cottage Cheese Salad
For a light and protein-rich meal, try a guava and cottage cheese salad. Toss chopped guava with cubes of paneer or tofu, cucumber slices, mint leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for balance. The creamy cottage cheese pairs perfectly with the juicy crunch of guava, creating a refreshing lunch or side salad.
4. Guava Paratha (Flatbread)
Add a fruity twist to your usual flatbreads with guava paratha. Mash ripe guava and mix it with jaggery, cardamom powder, and a bit of flour to create a sweet filling. Roll this mixture into wheat dough and cook like traditional stuffed parathas. Serve warm with yogurt or a dollop of ghee for a wholesome and satisfying breakfast or dinner.
5. Spicy Guava Stir-Fry
Unripe or semi-ripe guava works great in a quick stir-fry. Sauté sliced guava with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce or chili sauce. The guava adds a tangy crunch that balances beautifully with savory vegetables. Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a healthy, flavorful meal with a tropical twist.
6. Guava Juice with Mint & Lime
Homemade guava juice is a cooling, nutrient-dense drink for any time of day. Blend peeled guava with water, fresh mint, lime juice, and a little honey or agave. Strain and chill before serving. It’s naturally sweet and refreshing—ideal for hot days, detox mornings, or as a vibrant welcome drink.
7. Guava Rice Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with a guava-flavored rice pudding. Cook rice with plant-based milk and a bit of cardamom until creamy, then stir in guava puree or small chunks of ripe guava. Sweeten to taste with maple syrup or sugar. This twist on traditional kheer or pudding is fruity, aromatic, and perfect for after-meal indulgence.
From breakfast bowls to tangy chutneys and fruity desserts, guava is an exciting fruit that adds flavor, color, and nutrients to everyday meals. These 7 simple guava recipes are easy to prepare, naturally vegetarian, and wonderfully versatile—perfect for adding a tropical touch to your kitchen!
Ready to make guava your new favorite ingredient?