Salsa. Just the word alone can spark cravings for its vibrant, zesty punch—like a fiesta in your mouth! Whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or a lively get-together, there’s something magical about whipping up a fresh batch of salsa. I remember the first time I tried making it myself; the kitchen was a mess, tomatoes rolling everywhere, but the taste—oh, it was worth every chaotic second.
Steps
- Begin by coarsely chopping fresh Roma tomatoes, red onion, green onion, jalapeno, and cilantro. If using canned tomatoes, open the can and have them ready.
- Place all chopped vegetables into a food processor. Add fresh garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder and cumin for additional flavor.
- Pulse the mixture in the food processor until the ingredients are finely chopped but still retain some texture.
- Season the salsa with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired to balance the acidity.
- If you don’t have a food processor, use a blender or chop the ingredients finely by hand, and mix everything in a bowl.
- For the best flavor, let the salsa chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the homemade salsa with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Ingredients
- Fresh Roma tomatoes, ripe and firm
- Canned tomatoes (plain, with green chilies, or fire roasted)
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeno pepper (or substitute with 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper)
- Red onion (or yellow onion if preferred)
- Green onion (optional, can use more red onion instead)
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Fresh lime juice
- Chili powder (optional)
- Cumin (optional)
- Sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the tomatoes)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories 280 | Sodium 574mg | Potassium 2646mg | Carbohydrates 56g | Fiber 14g | Sugar 28g | Vitamin A 6720IU | Vitamin C 149.8mg | Calcium 224mg | Iron 7mg
FAQ
- How long can I store homemade salsa in the refrigerator?
- Homemade salsa can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s a great option to prepare ahead of time for events like game night or a Super Bowl party.
- What type of canned tomatoes should I use for this salsa?
- You can use plain canned tomatoes, canned tomatoes with green chilies, or canned fire-roasted tomatoes. All options work well, so feel free to use whichever you have available.
- Can I make salsa without a food processor?
- Yes, you can make salsa without a food processor. You can use a blender, or chop the ingredients finely by hand and mix them together in a bowl.
- What can I substitute if I don’t like spicy salsa?
- If you prefer a milder salsa, you can substitute the jalapeno with 1/4 cup of chopped bell pepper or omit it entirely. Alternatively, you can use a serrano pepper for a spicier version.
- Do I need to add sugar to the salsa?
- Adding sugar is optional and mainly depends on the tomatoes you use. If you use store-bought tomatoes, a touch of sugar can balance their acidity. However, if you use homegrown or farmers’ market tomatoes, which are typically sweeter, you might not need to add sugar.
Tips
- Always opt for the freshest tomatoes you can find, as they significantly enhance the flavor of the salsa. If possible, use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best results.
- When preparing your salsa, avoid pureeing the ingredients completely. Keeping some texture will give your salsa a more authentic and enjoyable consistency.
- Allowing your homemade salsa to chill for a few hours or even overnight before serving can improve the flavor, as it allows the ingredients to meld together nicely.
- If you prefer a spicier salsa, consider using serrano peppers or incorporating a few canned chipotle peppers with adobo sauce instead of jalapenos. Adjust the heat level to suit your taste preferences.
Equipment
- Food Processor – Useful for quickly chopping and mixing the ingredients to make salsa.
- Blender – An alternative to a food processor for making salsa if you don’t have one.
