Fresh Salsa

Authentic Fresh Salsa Recipe from Mexico | Tomatoes, Serrano Chile, Garlic & Cilantro

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fresh salsa is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite meals.

History

Salsa has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish dating back to the Aztecs. Fresh salsa, also known as pico de gallo, is a popular version of the dish that is made with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Ingredients

2 medium tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
4 scallions, finely chopped
3 serrano chile peppers, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
0.25 cup finely chopped cilantro
2 tbsp lemon juice
0.25 tsp ground white pepper

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients.
Mix the ingredients well.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Make sure to use the dish within a week.

Variations

Add diced mango, pineapple, or avocado for a tropical twist. Experiment with different types of peppers for varying levels of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, be sure to use ripe tomatoes and fresh cilantro. Adjust the amount of peppers to suit your taste preferences – for a milder salsa, use fewer peppers, and for a spicier salsa, add more. Refrigerating the salsa for a few hours before serving allows the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve fresh salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for salads.

Cooking Techniques

Chop the ingredients finely for a smoother salsa, or leave them chunky for a more rustic texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. You can also use red onion in place of scallions.

Make Ahead Tips

Fresh salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve fresh salsa in a colorful bowl or hollowed-out bell pepper for a festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fresh salsa pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also complements dishes like quesadillas and enchiladas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fresh salsa contains approximately 20 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fresh salsa contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Fresh salsa is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Fresh salsa is a low-protein dish, with less than 1 gram of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh salsa is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Fresh salsa is typically free of common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts.

Summary

Fresh salsa is a healthy and flavorful condiment that is low in calories and fat. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your meals.

Summary

Fresh salsa is a simple and delicious condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a healthy and versatile salsa that is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Fresh Salsa. I remember it like it was yesterday, although it was actually many years ago. I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen, where the sweet aroma of simmering tomatoes and peppers filled the air. Maria was busy chopping vegetables with a look of pure joy on her face.

"Come, sit down dear," Maria beckoned me over. "I am making my famous Fresh Salsa. You must try it."

I watched in awe as Maria expertly mixed tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, and lime juice together in a large bowl. The vibrant colors and delicious smells captivated me.

"Would you like to learn how to make it?" Maria asked.

I eagerly nodded, and Maria began to show me the steps to create the perfect Fresh Salsa. As she guided me through the process, she shared stories of how she learned the recipe from her grandmother in Mexico. It was a treasured family secret passed down through generations.

I listened intently, soaking up every detail and savoring the memories that Maria shared with me. Her passion for cooking was contagious, and I knew that I had to learn this recipe and make it my own.

After that day, I made Fresh Salsa regularly, experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create my own unique version. Each time I made it, I was transported back to Maria's kitchen, where the magic of cooking and friendship intertwined.

Over the years, I shared my Fresh Salsa with friends and family, who raved about its fresh and zesty flavors. They begged me to reveal the recipe, but I always kept it a secret, just like Maria had done with me.

As time passed, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, learning new recipes and techniques from various sources. I collected cookbooks, attended cooking classes, and watched cooking shows on TV. But no matter how many recipes I tried, Fresh Salsa remained my favorite.

One day, while browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother, I stumbled upon a recipe for Fresh Salsa that was similar to Maria's. It was like finding a hidden treasure, a piece of my culinary history waiting to be rediscovered.

I decided to try the recipe, following the instructions carefully and adding my own special touch. The end result was a delicious Fresh Salsa that brought back memories of Maria's kitchen and the bond we shared over food.

I knew that this recipe was meant to be shared with others, so I hosted a gathering with friends and family, serving them my homemade Fresh Salsa alongside crispy tortilla chips. The dish was a hit, and everyone asked for the recipe.

With a smile on my face, I finally revealed the secret behind my Fresh Salsa, telling the story of how I learned it from Maria and how it had become a beloved dish in my own kitchen. The recipe was no longer a mystery but a gift to be shared with others.

As I watched my loved ones enjoy the Fresh Salsa, I felt a sense of pride and fulfillment. Cooking had always been a passion of mine, but now it had become a way to connect with others and create lasting memories.

And so, the recipe for Fresh Salsa became more than just a dish to me. It was a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. I will always cherish the memories of learning this recipe from Maria and the journey it took me on in my culinary adventures.