Name: Homemade Red Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 15 oz tomatoes; 1 garlic clove; ½ cup white onion; ¼ cup cilantro; ½ medium jalapeño; 1 tbsp lime juice; ½ tsp fine sea salt

This homemade red salsa recipe is a simple, flavorful, and quick dip to whip up. Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh veggies, it's a healthy choice for a snack or a topping for your favorite dishes. The zingy flavors of onion, garlic, and lime juice, mixed with the freshness of tomatoes and cilantro, will make your taste buds dance. The addition of jalapeño provides a spicy kick that truly sets this salsa apart, making it a delightful companion for nachos, tacos, and more.

Photos of Homemade Red Salsa Recipe

While most of the ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, onion, cilantro, and lime juice are likely to be found in your pantry, you might want to check for jalapeño. Jalapeño is a medium-sized chili pepper that comes with a warm, burning sensation when eaten. It's a key component for adding the much-needed heat in our salsa recipe. If you're not into spicy food, you can adjust the quantity as per your preference or even omit it. However, for those who crave an authentic Mexican salsa, jalapeño is a must.

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Red Salsa

Tomatoes: The base of our salsa, they add a juicy, fresh element and great texture. Garlic Clove: A crucial flavor backbone, it adds a depth of flavor. White Onion: It contributes a sharp and slightly sweet flavor. Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note. Jalapeño: Gives the salsa its spicy kick. Lime Juice: It brightens up the flavors and adds a tangy twist. Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors.

One reader, Jessa Heffner says:

This homemade red salsa recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant, and it's incredibly easy to make. It's the perfect balance of tangy and spicy, and it pairs well with so many dishes. I can't get enough of it!

Jessa Heffner

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Red Salsa

How to drain tomatoes: Drain off about half of the tomato juice from the can or about ⅓ cup, then discard it.

How to chop garlic finely: In a food processor, pulse the garlic to chop more finely.

How to process salsa: Add the tomatoes and all of the remaining juice from the can, then add the onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Process the mixture until it is mostly smooth and no big chunks of tomato or onion remain, scraping down the sides as necessary.

How to season salsa: Season to taste with additional lime juice and salt, if necessary.

How to serve salsa: Serve the salsa over pizza or as a dip, and enjoy!

How To Make Homemade Red Salsa

Make your own red salsa at home with this simple recipe that will only take 10 minutes to make. It offers authentic Mexican salsa flavor when devoured.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

15oztomatoes,diced, fire-roasted
1garlic clove,roughly chopped
½cupwhite onion,about ½ small onion, roughly chopped
¼cupcilantro,fresh, lightly packed
½medium jalapeño,seeds and ribs removed, roughly chopped
1tbsplime juice,more if needed
½tspfine sea salt

Instructions

Drain off about half of the tomato juice from the can or about ⅓ cup, then discard it.
In a food processor, pulse the garlic to chop more finely.
Add the tomatoes and all of the remaining juice from the can.
Add the onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
Process the mixture until it is mostly smooth and no big chunks of tomato or onion remain, scraping down the sides as necessary.
Season to taste with additional lime juice and salt, if necessary.
Serve the salsa over pizza or as a dip, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

The salsa keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for about 10 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 59.91kcal
Fat: 0.50g
Saturated Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.19g
Carbohydrates: 13.45g
Fiber: 3.45g
Sugar: 7.59g
Protein: 2.51g
Sodium: 595.04mg
Calcium: 36.38mg
Potassium: 596.56mg
Iron: 0.74mg
Vitamin A: 98.08µg
Vitamin C: 39.56mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Homemade Red Salsa

To ensure your salsa has the perfect consistency, don't over-process the ingredients. Pulse the food processor in short bursts instead of letting it run continuously. This will give you a chunkier salsa, which is great for dipping. If you prefer a smoother salsa, you can process it a bit longer. Remember, it's always easier to process it more if needed, but you can't undo it if you've processed it too much.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Homemade Salsa

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and immersion blenders to speed up prep work.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze leftovers for quick and convenient meals later on.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking utensils.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Red Salsa Recipe

tomatoes - Substitute with canned fire-roasted tomatoes: Canned fire-roasted tomatoes can add a smoky flavor and depth to the salsa, similar to fresh tomatoes.
garlic clove - Substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for white onions, providing a slightly stronger flavor and a similar texture.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor without the distinctive cilantro taste.
jalapeño - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers can be used as a substitute for jalapeños, providing a similar level of heat and flavor to the salsa.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the salsa.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for fine sea salt, providing a similar level of saltiness and texture to the salsa.

Presenting Your Homemade Salsa

Elevate the plating: When presenting the salsa, consider using a vibrant and colorful plate to make the red salsa pop. The contrast will make the dish visually appealing and enticing.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top of the salsa to add a burst of freshness and a pop of green color, enhancing the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider serving the salsa in a beautiful ceramic bowl to add a textural element to the presentation. The contrast between the smooth salsa and the textured bowl will make the dish more visually interesting.
Artful drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to create an artful drizzle of lime juice on the plate before adding the salsa. This not only adds a decorative touch but also infuses the dish with an extra hint of citrus flavor.
Balance with a side dish: Pair the salsa with freshly made tortilla chips arranged in an elegant pattern around the salsa. This not only adds a complementary element to the dish but also elevates the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Red Salsa at Home

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's perfect for quickly and efficiently processing the tomatoes, onions, garlic, and jalapeño for the salsa.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients for the salsa. It allows for easy mixing and ensures that all the flavors are evenly distributed.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Red Salsa

To store the salsa, transfer it to an airtight container or jar and refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time, making it even more delicious.
If you have a large batch of salsa and want to preserve it for longer, freezing is a great option. Pour the salsa into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of your frozen salsa.
When you're ready to use the frozen salsa, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur during the freezing process.
Frozen salsa can be stored for up to 4-6 months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to consume it within 2-3 months.
If you find that the thawed salsa is a bit watery, you can drain off the excess liquid or simmer it in a pot over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.

How To Reheat Leftover Salsa

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover salsa to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and prevent the salsa from becoming too watery or overcooked, preserving its fresh flavor and texture.
Microwave method: place the leftover salsa in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat the salsa in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the salsa, as it can cause the ingredients to break down and become mushy.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover salsa to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the salsa in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired temperature. This method is ideal if you want to reheat a large quantity of salsa or if you're reheating it alongside other dishes.
Add to other dishes: incorporate leftover salsa into your favorite recipes, such as omelets, quesadillas, or chili. The heat from the dish will warm up the salsa, infusing your meal with a delightful burst of fresh, zesty flavor.
Cold serving: if you prefer your leftover salsa cold, simply remove it from the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. This method works well for dishes like tacos, burritos, or as a refreshing dip for tortilla chips.

Interesting Fact About Homemade Red Salsa

Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. These nutrients can help support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Is Making Red Salsa at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade red salsa recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño, are affordable and readily available. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $5.50. The versatility of this salsa makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a solid choice for any meal. I rate this recipe a 9 for its affordability, flavor, and versatility.

Is Homemade Red Salsa Healthy or Unhealthy?

This homemade red salsa recipe is a healthy choice for several reasons:

It's packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like tomatoes, which are high in vitamin C and lycopene, and cilantro, which is a good source of antioxidants and vitamins A and K
The recipe uses fresh ingredients and minimal processing, which helps preserve the nutritional value of the ingredients
It's low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet
The lime juice and jalapeño add a kick of flavor without relying on unhealthy additives or excessive salt

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use fresh, organic tomatoes instead of canned for maximum nutritional value and flavor
Increase the amount of cilantro and onion for added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients like bell peppers, black beans, or corn for extra fiber and nutrients
Use the salsa as a topping for grilled fish or chicken, or as a dip for raw veggies, to incorporate it into a well-rounded meal
Make a larger batch and store it in the fridge for easy, healthy snacking throughout the week

Editor's Opinion on This Homemade Red Salsa Recipe

This homemade red salsa recipe is a classic and versatile addition to any dish. The combination of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice creates a vibrant and flavorful salsa. The method of pulsing the garlic and then blending all the ingredients together ensures a smooth and well-incorporated texture. The balance of acidity from the lime juice and the heat from the jalapeño is perfect. This salsa is a great accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from tacos to grilled meats, and it's sure to impress with its fresh and zesty flavors.

Enhance Your Homemade Red Salsa Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Try serving the homemade red salsa with a side of creamy guacamole for a delicious contrast in flavors and textures.

Quesadillas: Pair the homemade red salsa with a plate of crispy, cheesy quesadillas for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Tacos: Top your favorite tacos with the homemade red salsa for an extra burst of fresh and zesty flavor.

Enchiladas: Add a spoonful of the homemade red salsa to your enchiladas for a tangy and spicy kick that will elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Alternative Recipes to Try Besides Homemade Red Salsa

Spicy Chicken Tacos: These tacos are filled with tender, spicy chicken and topped with a zesty lime slaw for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing salsa combines sweet mango, creamy avocado, and a hint of spice for a perfect accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in this velvety smooth soup made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Berry Cobbler: Enjoy the sweetness of mixed berries topped with a buttery, golden-brown crust for a delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Red Salsa

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Sear the salmon to perfection and pair it with a tangy mango salsa for a burst of flavor. The combination of the smoky char on the salmon and the sweet and spicy salsa will leave your taste buds dancing.

Beef Stir Fry: Toss thinly sliced beef with colorful bell peppers and a savory stir-fry sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. The tender beef and crisp vegetables come together in a delicious sauce that coats every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry compote and fresh slices of ripe strawberries for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Homemade Red Salsa Recipe:

This homemade red salsa recipe is a trusted favorite among tomato lovers. With fresh garlic, onion, and cilantro, it offers an authentic taste. The addition of jalapeño provides a perfect level of heat, while lime juice and sea salt enhance the flavors. The use of quality tomatoes ensures a rich and vibrant salsa. Trust the combination of these fresh, natural ingredients to deliver a delicious and authentic homemade salsa experience.

Share your thoughts on the Homemade Red Salsa Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How long can I store the homemade red salsa?

You can store the homemade red salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Can I make the salsa spicier?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier salsa, you can add more jalapeño or even include some of the jalapeño seeds for an extra kick. Adjust the heat level to your preference.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply use about 1 ½ cups of chopped fresh tomatoes and adjust the consistency by adding a little water if needed.

Can I make this salsa without a food processor?

Certainly! You can finely chop the ingredients by hand for a chunkier texture. Just make sure to finely mince the garlic, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño to achieve a similar consistency.

Can I freeze the homemade red salsa?

Yes, you can freeze the homemade red salsa. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving and give it a good stir to refresh the texture.