Description
This easy salsa recipe bursts with fresh tomato flavor and is ready in just minutes. Packed with zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño for spice, it’s perfect for dipping or topping your favorite Mexican dishes. Made from everyday ingredients, this fresh salsa is healthier and tastier than store-bought versions—no cooking required!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Fresh Produce
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Seasonings & Extras
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the tomatoes, finely chop the red onion and jalapeños (removing seeds for mild heat or leaving them in for spicier salsa), mince the garlic, and finely chop the cilantro.
- Mix the Salsa: In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, garlic, and cilantro. If using cumin, add it now.
- Add Lime and Seasonings: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until well-combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the salsa and adjust salt, lime, and spice to your preference. Add more jalapeño for heat or more lime for tanginess.
- Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salsa for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, though it’s also great served immediately.
- Serve: Enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or salads.
Notes
- Use Roma or plum tomatoes for less watery salsa.
- For extra heat, keep some jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- The salsa can be made up to 2 days in advance—flavors improve as it sits.
- If you prefer a smoother salsa, pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor.
- Adjust cilantro and onion amounts to taste, or substitute with green onions if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg