Simple Salsa
Simple Salsa Recipe from Mexico with Tomatoes, Peppers, Onion and Cilantro
Introduction
Salsa is a popular condiment that originated in Mexico and is now enjoyed all over the world. It is a versatile and flavorful addition to many dishes, from tacos to grilled meats. This simple salsa recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
History
Salsa has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with early versions made from tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions. The Spanish conquistadors introduced tomatoes to Mexico in the 16th century, leading to the creation of the salsa we know today. Over time, different regions developed their own variations of salsa, incorporating local ingredients and flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 2 green bell peppers
- 0.5 onion, chopped
- 2 jalapeno peppers
- 1 clove of garlic, chopped
- 1 serrano pepper (optional)
- 1 bunch of cilantro
- 2 lemons, juice of
How to prepare
- Finely chop all of the ingredients except the cilantro (avoid using a blender for this recipe).
- Combine the chopped ingredients.
- Next, add the lemon juice to the mixture.
- Stir the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Lastly, chop the cilantro into small pieces and gently fold them into the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a container and refrigerate. It can be stored for several days.
Variations
- Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and spicy salsa.
- Roast the vegetables before chopping for a smokier flavor.
- Use different types of peppers, such as habanero or poblano, for a unique twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno and serrano peppers before chopping.
Adjust the amount of garlic and cilantro to suit your taste preferences.
For a smokier flavor, roast the tomatoes, bell peppers, and jalapenos before chopping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for salads.
Cooking Techniques
Chop the ingredients by hand for a chunkier salsa, or use a food processor for a smoother texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use red or yellow bell peppers instead of green for a sweeter flavor.
Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrusy taste.
Make Ahead Tips
This salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salsa in a colorful bowl with a garnish of fresh cilantro leaves.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this salsa with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or black bean soup for a delicious meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 35
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Fats
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
Protein: 1g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 45% DV
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Iron: 4% DV
Alergens
This recipe contains no common allergens.
Summary
This simple salsa is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to your meals. It is also a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
Summary
This simple salsa recipe is a delicious and healthy condiment that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. Customize it to suit your taste preferences and enjoy the fresh flavors of this homemade salsa.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I was at a local farmer's market browsing through the fresh produce. As I wandered through the stalls, I came across a small stand run by a friendly elderly couple. They had a table full of bright red tomatoes, spicy jalapenos, and vibrant green cilantro.
Curious, I struck up a conversation with the couple and asked them what they were selling. They explained that they were selling ingredients for homemade salsa, a traditional Mexican condiment that they had learned to make during their travels in Mexico. They shared with me their simple recipe, and I knew I had to try it for myself.
I purchased the ingredients from the couple and headed home to give the recipe a try. As I chopped the tomatoes, diced the onions, and minced the jalapenos, the kitchen was filled with the delicious aroma of fresh ingredients. I mixed everything together in a bowl, added a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of salt, and took a hesitant bite.
The salsa was incredible. The flavors of the fresh ingredients combined perfectly, creating a spicy, tangy, and refreshing condiment that was perfect for dipping chips or topping tacos. I knew right away that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.
I began making the simple salsa regularly, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. Sometimes I added extra jalapenos for a spicier kick, or a handful of chopped mangoes for a touch of sweetness. I experimented with different types of tomatoes and onions, discovering how each ingredient could subtly alter the flavor of the salsa.
Over time, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. They encouraged me to enter my salsa in local cooking competitions, where it always received high praise from the judges. Soon, my simple salsa became a sought-after dish at potlucks and parties, with everyone clamoring for the recipe.
As I continued to make the salsa, I thought back to the elderly couple at the farmer's market who had introduced me to the recipe. I wondered about their travels in Mexico, and the culinary adventures they must have had. I imagined them cooking in rustic kitchens with stone ovens and clay pots, learning traditional recipes passed down through generations.
I felt a deep connection to the simple salsa recipe, knowing that it had been shared with me by people who had a passion for cooking and a love for sharing their culinary knowledge. I realized that food has a way of bringing people together, transcending language and cultural barriers to create a shared experience of joy and nourishment.
As I continued to make the simple salsa, I thought about all the other recipes I had collected over the years from various places and people. Each recipe held a story, a memory, a connection to someone or something that had touched my life in some way. I cherished these recipes, knowing that they were more than just instructions for making food – they were a reflection of the people and experiences that had shaped me into the cook I was today.
And so, every time I made the simple salsa, I did so with gratitude for the elderly couple at the farmer's market who had shared their recipe with me. I honored their culinary legacy by continuing to make the salsa, passing on the recipe to others, and sharing the joy of cooking with everyone I met.
In the end, the simple salsa became more than just a recipe – it became a symbol of my love for cooking, my passion for sharing delicious food with others, and my appreciation for the rich tapestry of culinary traditions that make up our world. And so, every time I made the salsa, I did so with a smile on my face, knowing that I was creating something special that would bring people together and nourish both body and soul.