Salsa Recipe
Looking for a vibrant, fresh dip to elevate your next gathering? This salsa recipe is a crowd-pleaser, showcasing ripe tomatoes, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro. Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, this salsa is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any meal or snack time.
Ingredients
– 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Servings and Cooking Time
This salsa recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1/4 cup) contains approximately 40 calories, 1g of protein, 0g of fat, 9g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by washing all vegetables thoroughly.
2. Dice the tomatoes into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Finely chop the red onion and add it to the bowl with tomatoes.
4. Remove seeds from jalapeños for less heat, then mince them finely.
5. Add the minced jalapeños to the bowl.
6. Chop the fresh cilantro and mix it in.
7. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture.
8. If using, add the minced garlic for extra flavor.
9. Season with salt to taste, mixing everything together.
10. Let the salsa sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes for a quicker option. For a milder salsa, skip the jalapeños or use bell peppers instead. Additionally, red onion can be swapped for green onions for a different flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This salsa pairs excellently with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for burrito bowls. It also makes a refreshing addition to salads and sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving, but note that the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe tomatoes can result in a mushy salsa.
- Not allowing the salsa to sit can prevent the flavors from developing.
- Using too much lime juice can overpower the other flavors.
- Skipping salt can make the salsa taste bland.
- Chopping vegetables too large can affect the texture.
- Not removing jalapeño seeds may result in excessive heat.
- Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of jalapeño.
- Fresh lime juice is essential for the best taste.
- Experiment with additional ingredients like mango or pineapple for a twist.
- Make the salsa a few hours in advance for enhanced flavors.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes for salsa?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a quick alternative, but fresh tomatoes provide better flavor and texture.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat, add more jalapeños or include some diced habanero peppers.
How long does salsa last in the fridge?
Homemade salsa typically lasts 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Can I add fruits to my salsa?
Absolutely! Fruits like mango, peach, or pineapple add a delicious sweetness that complements the tanginess of the tomatoes.
What can I serve with salsa?
Salsa is perfect with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a topping on burritos and nachos.
Conclusion
This salsa recipe is not just easy to prepare but also a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for parties or a simple snack, its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors are sure to brighten your table. Enjoy this versatile dish that celebrates the essence of fresh cooking!
Salsa Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes diced
- 1 small red onion finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers seeds removed and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 clove garlic minced
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
- Dice the tomatoes into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the red onion and add it to the bowl with tomatoes.
- Remove seeds from jalapeños for less heat, then mince them finely.
- Add the minced jalapeños to the bowl.
- Chop the fresh cilantro and mix it in.
- Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture.
- If using, add the minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Season with salt to taste, mixing everything together.
- Let the salsa sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
