Fresh Salsa Recipe

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Description

This Fresh Salsa (also known as Pico de Gallo) is a vibrant, zesty, and chunky Mexican condiment made with ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s quick to prepare, packed with refreshing flavors, and perfect for dipping tortilla chips, topping tacos, or adding brightness to grilled meats and vegetables.

 Ingredients For Fresh Salsa Recipe

  • 4 ripe medium tomatoes, finely diced

  • 1 small red or white onion, finely diced

  • 1–2 jalapeños (or serrano peppers), seeded and finely minced (adjust for spice level)

  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)

  • Salt to taste (about ½ tsp to start)

  • Black pepper to taste (optional)

 Instructions

  1. Prep vegetables: Dice the tomatoes, onion, and peppers into small, even pieces.

  2. Combine: In a medium bowl, add tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, cilantro, and garlic.

  3. Season: Squeeze lime juice over the mix, add salt and black pepper.

  4. Mix gently: Stir to combine but avoid mashing the tomatoes.

  5. Chill: Let salsa rest for at least 15–20 minutes in the refrigerator for flavors to meld.

  6. Serve: Enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or as a side to Mexican dishes.

 Servings

Makes about 4 cups (6–8 servings).

Nutritional Info (per serving, ~½ cup)

  • Calories: 25

  • Protein: 1 g

  • Fat: 0 g

  • Carbohydrates: 6 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 3 g

  • Sodium: 120 mg

(Values may vary based on exact ingredients and amounts.)

 Notes

  • Use the ripest, freshest tomatoes for best flavor. Roma or vine-ripened work great.

  • For a smoother salsa, pulse ingredients in a food processor (don’t over-blend).

  • If too watery, scoop salsa with a slotted spoon before serving.

  • Salsa tastes even better the next day once flavors deepen.

 Tips

  • Roast tomatoes, peppers, and onions before chopping for a smoky variation.

  • Add diced mango, pineapple, or cucumber for a fruity twist.

  • For extra heat, keep the seeds and membranes in the jalapeños.

  • Always taste before serving and adjust salt and lime juice as needed.

 Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin C from tomatoes, lime, and peppers – boosts immunity.

  • Low-calorie & fat-free, making it a guilt-free snack.

  • High in antioxidants like lycopene from tomatoes.

  • Good source of fiber from fresh veggies, aiding digestion.

 Q&A

Q: Can I make salsa ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s best when chilled at least 1 hour, and can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Q: Can I freeze fresh salsa?
A: Not recommended—freezing changes the texture, making it watery.

Q: How do I make it less spicy?
A: Remove pepper seeds and membranes or replace jalapeños with mild peppers.

Q: What can I serve it with besides chips?
A: Tacos, burrito bowls, grilled fish, scrambled eggs, or even baked potatoes.

Q: Can I make it without cilantro?
A: Yes—use parsley or green onions for a different flavor.

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