Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa Recipe - Made with Cherries, Basil, and More

Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa

Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa Recipe - Made with Cherries, Basil, and More
Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa
Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa

Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa is a delightful and refreshing twist on traditional salsa, using sweet cherries as the star ingredient. This salsa is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a topping for grilled meats or fish.

History

Cherries have been a beloved fruit in the Pacific Northwest for centuries, with the region's ideal climate producing some of the best cherries in the world. This salsa recipe takes advantage of the sweet and juicy flavors of fresh Northwest cherries, combined with zesty ingredients to create a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Chop the cherries in a food processor or by hand. Combine all the ingredients and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Variations

  • Add diced avocado or mango for a tropical twist. Substitute cilantro for basil for a different flavor profile. Add diced red onion for extra crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When pitting cherries, use a cherry pitter or a small knife to remove the pits easily. Be careful not to crush the cherries while pitting to maintain their shape and texture in the salsa. For a spicier salsa, add more hot pepper sauce to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salsa with tortilla chips, grilled chicken or fish, or as a topping for tacos or salads.

Cooking Techniques

Chopping the cherries by hand will give the salsa a chunkier texture, while using a food processor will create a smoother consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries can be used instead. Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld and intensify over time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salsa in a hollowed-out pineapple or watermelon for a fun and festive presentation. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or cherry halves for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salsa with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light beer like a wheat ale or pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow the salsa to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 70 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Fats: 0.5g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salsa is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants from the cherries and peppers.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

This Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that is perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Summary

Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa is a delicious and versatile dish that highlights the sweet and tangy flavors of cherries. This salsa is easy to make and perfect for summer entertaining or as a healthy snack option. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this unique salsa recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from the local farmers market with a basket full of ripe, juicy cherries. As I sorted through the bounty of fresh produce, I stumbled upon a handwritten recipe card tucked away in the bottom of the basket. The title read "Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa."

I had never heard of cherry salsa before, but the combination of sweet cherries, tangy lime juice, and spicy jalapenos intrigued me. I knew I had to give it a try. The recipe was simple and straightforward, calling for just a few ingredients that I already had on hand. I gathered my tools and got to work.

As I chopped the cherries and diced the onions, the kitchen filled with a sweet aroma that made my mouth water. I could already envision the vibrant colors and flavors coming together in the bowl. I added the lime juice, cilantro, and jalapenos, tasting as I went to adjust the seasonings to my liking.

The final product was a beautiful medley of flavors – the sweetness of the cherries balanced perfectly with the acidity of the lime and the heat of the jalapenos. I couldn't wait to share this newfound recipe with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa countless times, each batch better than the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a dash of honey for extra sweetness or a splash of tequila for a bit of kick. But the essence of the dish remains the same – a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have tasted it at potlucks and dinner parties. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dish for summer gatherings and impromptu get-togethers.

One of my fondest memories of making Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa was when my granddaughter, Emily, came to visit. She was just a little girl at the time, curious and eager to learn how to cook. I invited her to join me in the kitchen, showing her how to pit cherries and chop peppers. She looked up at me with wide eyes, soaking in every word as I explained the process.

As we worked side by side, I could see the joy on her face as she tasted the finished salsa. It was a special moment, passing down a recipe that had brought me so much happiness over the years. I knew that she would carry on the tradition, sharing the recipe with her own loved ones someday.

As I grow older, my love for cooking only deepens. I continue to experiment with new recipes and techniques, always eager to learn and create in the kitchen. But there will always be a special place in my heart for Fresh Northwest Cherry Salsa – a recipe that brings back memories of warm summer days, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food with those I love.

Categories

| American Recipes | Basil Recipes | Cherry Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Salsa Recipes |

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