Get ready to transform your ordinary meals into a fiesta of flavors with this incredibly easy and mouthwatering Fresh Mexican Salsa! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, zesty condiment that will have your family and friends begging for more. This isn't just a salsa - it's a culinary journey to the heart of Mexico, packed with fresh ingredients and bold, bright tastes that will elevate everything from chips to tacos.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully dice the ripe tomatoes into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size. Place diced tomatoes in a medium mixing bowl.
- Peel the half onion and finely chop it into very small, consistent pieces. Add chopped onion to the bowl with tomatoes.
- Cut the jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and white membrane using the tip of your knife to reduce heat intensity. Finely chop the jalapeño and add to the bowl.
- Rinse fresh cilantro leaves and pat dry with paper towels. Chop cilantro leaves and stems finely, then add to the tomato mixture.
- Cut the lime in half and squeeze fresh juice directly over the salsa ingredients, ensuring no seeds fall into the mixture.
- Sprinkle salt to taste, starting with 1/4 teaspoon and adjusting according to preference.
- Gently mix all ingredients using a spoon, ensuring even distribution of flavors. Let the salsa sit for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lime juice as desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. Best enjoyed fresh with tortilla chips or as a topping for various Mexican dishes.
Tips
- Choose perfectly ripe tomatoes - they're the heart of your salsa's flavor profile. Look for deep red, slightly soft tomatoes with a rich, sweet aroma.
- For control over spice levels, remove ALL seeds and white membranes from the jalapeño. Want it spicier? Leave some seeds in!
- Let your salsa rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This "flavor marriage" time allows ingredients to blend and intensify their taste.
- Use fresh lime juice - bottled just won't compare. The brightness of fresh citrus is crucial to authentic Mexican salsa.
- Serve within 2 hours of preparation for maximum freshness and crispest flavor. Pro tip: If storing, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 20kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
