Cilantro-Lime Jalapeño Salsa Recipe
This Cilantro-Lime Jalapeño Salsa is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful condiment that brings a zesty kick to any dish. The combination of ripe, juicy tomatoes, crunchy red onions, and spicy jalapeños creates a salsa that has just the right balance of heat and tang. The cilantro adds a refreshing herbaceous note, while the lime juice gives it a bright and citrusy flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Ingredients:
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 small red onion, finely diced
1-2 fresh jalapeños (depending on desired heat level), finely chopped
1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for smoothness)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
1-2 teaspoons honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Dice the tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños. If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping.
Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro finely.
Juice the lime.
Mix Everything Together:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, chopped jalapeños, garlic, and cilantro.
Add the lime juice and stir to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a touch of sweetness to balance out the heat, add a teaspoon of honey.
For extra tanginess, add a little white vinegar, but this is optional.
Optional: Add Olive Oil:
If you prefer a smoother texture and a bit of richness, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil. This will make the salsa a bit more velvety.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste your salsa and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, you can add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer it milder, add a bit more cilantro and lime juice.
Chill and Serve:
Let the salsa sit for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can refrigerate it for longer if you prefer it cold.
Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or any dish that would benefit from a burst of fresh, zesty flavor!
- Q&A:
- Q: How spicy is this salsa?
A: The spice level of this salsa depends on how much jalapeño you add. One jalapeño will give it a moderate heat, while two will make it spicier. To make it milder, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping them. - Q: Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time helps the flavors to meld together. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as some of the liquid might separate. - Q: Can I freeze this salsa?
A: While you can technically freeze salsa, the texture might change slightly once thawed, especially with the tomatoes. It’s best to enjoy it fresh, but if you do decide to freeze it, place it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - Q: What else can I add to this salsa for variety?
A: You can add ingredients like roasted corn, diced cucumber, or a small amount of chopped avocado for a twist. You could also swap the jalapeños for serrano peppers if you want a sharper heat! - Q: Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
A: Fresh cilantro provides the best flavor and vibrant green color. Dried cilantro will work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as bright. If using dried, use about 1 tablespoon. - Q: Can I make this salsa without cilantro?
A: Yes, you can leave out the cilantro if you’re not a fan. For a similar fresh flavor, you can substitute with parsley or just increase the amount of lime juice and garlic. - Enjoy!