Salsa made with fresh tomatoes is a delightful addition to any meal, providing a zesty and vibrant touch that enhances flavors. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, balanced with herbs and spices, creating a perfect dip or topping for various dishes. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats, this salsa is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some freshness to your table!
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 2 limes
– Salt, to taste
– Pepper, to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and no cooking time is required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the total recipe) contains approximately 50 calories, 1 g of protein, 12 g of carbohydrates, 0 g of fat, and 2 g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by washing the fresh tomatoes thoroughly under cold water.
- 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 the tomatoes.
- Remove the seeds from the jalapeño peppers and mince them finely.
- Add the minced jalapeños to the tomato and onion mixture.
- Chop the fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves, then add them to the mixture.
- Squeeze the juice of two limes over the ingredients in the bowl.
- Season the salsa with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Let the salsa sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a milder salsa, you can omit the jalapeños or substitute them with bell peppers. Additionally, cherry tomatoes can be used for a sweeter flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This salsa is perfect served with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or drizzled over tacos. It also pairs well with fresh guacamole.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be served cold, and it is not recommended to freeze due to the texture of the tomatoes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overly ripe tomatoes can make the salsa too mushy.
- Not letting the salsa sit can prevent the flavors from developing.
- Omitting the lime juice can result in a bland taste.
- Chopping ingredients too large can affect the texture.
- Forgetting to season properly can lead to a flat flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of jalapeños.
- Try adding diced mango for a sweet twist.
- Serve the salsa chilled for a refreshing taste.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
How long does salsa last in the fridge?
Fresh salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the quality may decline.
Can I make salsa in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh until serving.
Is it possible to make salsa without cilantro?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley or simply omit it altogether.
What can I serve salsa with?
Salsa pairs well with tortilla chips, grilled meats, tacos, and even as a topping for eggs or salads.
Conclusion
This salsa recipe with fresh tomatoes is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a quick snack, it brings a refreshing twist to any meal. Enjoy the vibrant taste of summer with every bite!
Salsa Recipe With Fresh Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes diced
- 1 small red onion finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh tomatoes thoroughly under cold water.
- 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 the tomatoes.
- Remove the seeds from the jalapeño peppers and mince them finely.
- Add the minced jalapeños to the tomato and onion mixture.
- Chop the fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves, then add them to the mixture.
- Squeeze the juice of two limes over the ingredients in the bowl.
- Season the salsa with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Let the salsa sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
