home made salsa recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best home made salsa recipe

I have always loved making fresh, homemade salsa. It brings back memories of family gatherings and summer barbecues.

The vibrant combination of tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro creates a burst of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a large family gathering.

My kids love it, and I often find them dipping tortilla chips into the salsa while they do their homework. The health benefits of this salsa are numerous.

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is great for heart health. Onions and jalapeños add a spicy kick and are packed with antioxidants.

Cilantro not only adds freshness but also aids in digestion. This salsa is versatile and can be used as a topping for tacos, burritos, or even as a side dish with grilled meats.

It’s a staple in our household, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

Homemade Salsa Recipe

4.6 from 1883 votes

This homemade salsa recipe is fresh, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s perfect for dipping, topping, or as a side dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 35 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Dice the tomatoes into small pieces.
2Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
3Start by cutting the tomatoes in half and then slicing them into thin strips.
4Then, turn the strips into small cubes.
5Be careful of the juices, as they can make the dish messy.
6Finely chop the red onion.
7You will need to do this over a cutting board.
8Make sure to cut the onion into thin slices first, then stack them and cut them into thin strips.
9Then, turn the strips into tiny cubes.
10Be careful to avoid tears.
11I find it helpful to cut the onion under cold running water to minimize the burning sensation.
12Seed and finely chop the jalapeño peppers.
13Be careful when handling jalapeños, as they can be very spicy.
14Wear gloves if necessary.
15Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
16Then, finely chop the peppers.
17The smaller the pieces, the more heat they will release into the salsa.
18Chop the cilantro.
19Wash the cilantro thoroughly to remove any dirt.
20Shake off excess water and pat dry with a paper towel.
21Chop the cilantro leaves and stems finely.
22The stems are edible and add a lot of flavor to the salsa.
23Add the chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro to a large mixing bowl.
24Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture.
25Lime juice adds a tangy flavor and helps to balance the heat from the jalapeños.
26Add salt, cumin, and chili powder to the bowl.
27Stir everything together until well combined.
28Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 35 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0.3g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 530mg🌾Total Carbs: 7g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1.5g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

Tips: For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For a spicier salsa, leave them in.

This homemade salsa recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a casual weeknight dinner.

You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s a great way to use up fresh produce from your garden or the farmers market.

Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought salsa, as you can control the ingredients and the amount of salt and sugar. Serve it with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, or as a side dish with grilled meats.

It’s a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Salsa

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

You can use canned tomatoes, but the flavor and texture will be different. Fresh tomatoes have a brighter, more vibrant flavor and a firmer texture. Canned tomatoes are softer and have a more muted flavor. If you must use canned tomatoes, drain them well and pat them dry before adding them to the salsa.

How long can I store homemade salsa?

Homemade salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will meld and intensify over time, so it’s best to make it a day or two before you plan to serve it.

Can I freeze homemade salsa?

Yes, you can freeze homemade salsa. Freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

How can I make my salsa spicier?

To make your salsa spicier, you can add more jalapeños or use hotter peppers like serrano or habanero peppers. You can also leave the seeds and membranes in the jalapeños, as they contain most of the heat. Be careful when handling hot peppers, as they can cause skin irritation.

Can I add other ingredients to my salsa?

Yes, you can customize your salsa by adding other ingredients. Some popular additions include diced avocado, corn, black beans, or diced mango for a sweet and spicy salsa. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations.

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