Salsa Recipe With Fresh Tomatoes

Craving a vibrant, fresh condiment that can elevate any meal? Look no further! This Fresh Tomato Salsa recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for everything from dipping chips to topping grilled dishes. Inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine, this salsa brings a burst of sunshine to your table. Let’s dive into the magic of homemade salsa!

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Tomato Salsa

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Fresh Flavors: Bursting with the taste of ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a hint of spice.
• Versatile: Perfect for chips, tacos, grilled chicken, fish, and more.
• Healthy: Low in fat and a good source of Vitamin C.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level to your liking.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
• Impress Your Guests: Homemade salsa is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Better Than Store-Bought: No preservatives or artificial flavors!

Ingredients Needed

• 6 medium ripe tomatoes (approximately 900g / 2 lbs): Diced for the perfect texture. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and consistency.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion (approximately 75g): Adds a sharp, savory bite. For a milder flavor, try using sweet onion.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (approximately 15g): Essential for that authentic salsa taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, a little parsley can be used as a substitute.
• 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced (approximately 30g): Provides a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to control the heat level. Remember to wear gloves when handling jalapeños!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 6g): Infuses a pungent, aromatic flavor. Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately 45ml): Adds a tangy, citrusy brightness. Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must!
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (approximately 3g): Enhances all the flavors. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best results.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (approximately 0.5g): Adds a warm, earthy depth. Toast the cumin powder lightly in a dry pan for a more intense flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (approximately 0.5g): Provides a subtle, peppery bite. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.

Sourcing Tip: Look for the freshest tomatoes at your local farmer’s market for the most vibrant salsa. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties!

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Essential Equipment List

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping.
• Sharp knife: Essential for dicing the vegetables efficiently. A chef’s knife or santoku knife works well.
• Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate seasoning.
• Measuring cups: For measuring the onion and cilantro.
• Citrus juicer or reamer: For extracting fresh lime juice.
• Airtight container or plastic wrap: For storing the salsa in the refrigerator.

Consider a high-quality knife for safer, easier chopping. A glass mixing bowl won’t react with the acidic lime juice.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)

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• Servings: Approximately 6 (1/4 cup servings)
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is incredibly scalable. Double or triple it for parties, or halve it for a smaller batch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect fresh tomato salsa. Each step is designed to ensure you achieve that authentic, flavorful taste.

Step 1: Prepare the Produce

• Begin by washing all fresh produce thoroughly under running water. Pat dry with clean towels. This ensures the removal of any dirt or residue.

Step 2: Dice the Tomatoes

• Core the tomatoes and dice them into small, uniform pieces. Place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Smaller, uniform pieces ensure a consistent texture and flavor distribution.

3rd Step: Chop the Onion

• Finely chop the white onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes. Fine chopping prevents overpowering the salsa.

Step 4: Prepare the Jalapeños

• Remove the stems from the jalapeño peppers, cut them in half lengthwise, and carefully remove the seeds and membranes using a small knife or spoon. This reduces the heat of the jalapeños.

Step 5: Mince the Jalapeños

• Mince the jalapeño peppers finely and add them to the mixing bowl. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapeños!

Step 6: Mince the Garlic

• Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the mixture. Freshly minced garlic is key for that robust flavor.

Step 7: Chop the Cilantro

• Chop the fresh cilantro leaves and stems finely and add to the bowl. Both the leaves and stems of cilantro are flavorful, so don’t discard the stems!

Step 8: Add Lime Juice

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture, ensuring no seeds fall into the salsa. Lime juice adds a necessary tang and helps to preserve the salsa.

Step 9: Season the Salsa

• Add the salt, ground cumin, and black pepper to the bowl. These spices enhance and balance the flavors of the salsa.

Step 10: Combine the Ingredients

• Gently stir all ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to crush the tomatoes too much. Over-mixing can result in a mushy salsa.

Step 11: Taste and Adjust

• Taste the salsa and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or spices according to your preference. This is your chance to customize the salsa to your exact liking.

Step 12: Chill the Salsa

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling enhances the flavor and allows the ingredients to fully combine.

Step 13: Serve

• Before serving, give the salsa a final stir and transfer to a serving bowl. Enjoy with your favorite chips, tacos, or grilled dishes!

CHECK OUT: The Ultimate Crab Salad Recipe – Another fantastic recipe that’s perfect for gatherings!

Tips for Success

• Use ripe tomatoes: This is crucial for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t over-mix: Over-mixing can make the salsa mushy. Stir gently.
• Adjust the heat: Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños to reduce the heat. For a milder salsa, use less jalapeño or substitute with bell pepper.
• Chill before serving: Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.
• Taste and adjust: Don’t be afraid to add more salt, lime juice, or spices to suit your personal preference.

If the salsa is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. A food processor can be used for quicker chopping, but be careful not to over-process.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicier Salsa: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Smoked Salsa: Grill the tomatoes and onions before dicing for a smoky flavor.
• Fruity Salsa: Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit any non-vegetarian toppings or pairings.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Fresh Tomato Salsa

• Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing!
• Tacos: Elevate your tacos with a scoop of fresh salsa.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: A vibrant topping for grilled dishes.
• Quesadillas: Add salsa for a burst of fresh flavor.

Pair this salsa with a refreshing glass of sparkling pineapple lemonade for a complete and satisfying meal.

Health Benefits

• Vitamin C: Tomatoes are a good source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
• Low in Fat: This salsa is naturally low in fat, making it a healthy choice.
• Antioxidants: Tomatoes contain antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.

One serving provides a significant portion of your daily recommended Vitamin C intake!

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the tomatoes.

Ensure the salsa is cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, but canned diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Drain them well before using.

How do I make the salsa less spicy?

Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. You can also use a milder pepper like poblano.

Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it’s best to make it at least 30 minutes ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.

How long will the salsa last?

The salsa will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans can be added for extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 25 per 1/4 cup serving
• Fat: Low in fat
• Vitamin C: Good source

Exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more fresh and flavorful dishes? Check out these other amazing recipes!

• Thai Peanut Noodle Salad – A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
• Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon Dressing – A refreshing and healthy salad packed with Mediterranean flavors.
• Thai Chicken Salad – A protein-packed salad with a delicious Thai-inspired dressing.

Conclusion

This Fresh Tomato Salsa recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful way to elevate any meal. It’s versatile, healthy, and customizable to your liking. Whip it up tonight and impress your friends and family! Don’t forget to tag us with your salsa masterpiece!

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