Summer Salsa

Malaysian Summer Salsa Recipe with Avocado and Tomatoes

Region / culture: Malaysia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Summer Salsa is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This salsa is made with fresh ingredients like sweet onion, avocado, orange, and tomatoes, all mixed together with a tangy dressing. It can be served as a side dish, a topping for grilled meats, or as a dip with tortilla chips.

History

The origins of Summer Salsa are not clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico, where fresh and vibrant ingredients are abundant. Salsas have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with each region having its own unique variation. This particular recipe combines traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist.

Ingredients

0.25 cup red onion or sweet onion
1 Genuine california avocado
1 medium to large orange
3 medium-sized tomatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
2 to 4 tbsp rice wine vinegar (flavored rice wine vinegar works well also)
Chopped garlic to taste
salt and pepper to taste
Optional: bell peppers, hot peppers, grilled corn, etc.

How to prepare

In a medium-sized bowl, combine rice wine vinegar, oil, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
Finely chop 0.25 cup of onion.
Chop tomatoes into chunks measuring 0.25 inch to 0.5 inch.
Peel and segment the orange, removing the membrane, and cut into chunks measuring 0.25 inch to 0.5 inch.
Peel the avocado and chop into chunks measuring 0.25 inch to 0.5 inch.
Add the avocado and all other ingredients to the seasoned oil and vinegar mixture.
Stir all the ingredients together and refrigerate for 0.5 hour.
Refrigerate for at least one hour.

Variations

Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Mix in black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a spicier salsa, add chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes.

- Serve the salsa chilled for a refreshing taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Summer Salsa as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a topping for tacos or salads. It can also be enjoyed as a dip with tortilla chips or pita bread.

Cooking Techniques

Use a sharp knife to chop the ingredients into uniform pieces.

- Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid mashing the avocado.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red onion instead of sweet onion for a sharper flavor.

- Substitute lemon juice for the rice wine vinegar.

- Use grapefruit or mandarin oranges instead of a regular orange.

Make Ahead Tips

The Summer Salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Summer Salsa in a colorful bowl or hollowed-out pineapple for a festive presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Summer Salsa with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail like a margarita. It also goes well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze, as the texture of the avocado may change. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 120 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Vitamin A: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

This recipe contains avocado, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Summer Salsa is a nutritious dish that is high in vitamins and minerals, while also providing a good source of healthy fats and carbohydrates.

Summary

Summer Salsa is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light and refreshing snack. With its vibrant colors and flavors, this salsa is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a hot summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook at a yard sale. The pages were yellowed and frayed, but the words jumped out at me: "Summer Salsa." Intrigued, I bought the book for a mere fifty cents and brought it home with me.

As I flipped through the pages, I came across the recipe for Summer Salsa. It called for fresh tomatoes, ripe avocados, crisp cucumbers, and a medley of colorful bell peppers. The combination sounded divine, and I knew I had to try it out.

I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I chopped the tomatoes into small cubes, diced the avocados with care, and sliced the cucumbers into thin rounds. The bell peppers added a burst of color to the mix, and I could already envision the vibrant salsa coming together.

As I mixed everything together in a large bowl, the aroma of fresh vegetables filled the air. I added a splash of lime juice for a tangy kick and a sprinkle of cilantro for a burst of flavor. The salsa was finally ready, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

I scooped up a spoonful of the Summer Salsa and brought it to my lips. The flavors exploded in my mouth – sweet tomatoes, creamy avocados, crunchy cucumbers, and the perfect amount of heat from the bell peppers. It was a symphony of tastes and textures, and I knew I had stumbled upon a gem of a recipe.

I shared the Summer Salsa with my family, and they couldn't get enough of it. My husband declared it the best salsa he had ever tasted, and my grandchildren begged me to make it for them again and again. It quickly became a staple at family gatherings and potluck dinners, and I was proud to have discovered such a delicious recipe.

Over the years, I have made the Summer Salsa countless times, each batch as fresh and flavorful as the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a touch of garlic or a pinch of cumin for a twist, but the essence of the original recipe remains the same.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness. Some have even asked me to teach them how to make it, and I have happily obliged, passing on the legacy of the Summer Salsa to a new generation.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I found that old cookbook and discovered the recipe for Summer Salsa, I am filled with gratitude. It may seem like a simple dish, but to me, it represents so much more – a love for cooking, a passion for good food, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

And so, I will continue to make the Summer Salsa for years to come, savoring each bite and cherishing the memories it brings. Who knew that a chance encounter at a yard sale would lead me to a recipe that has brought so much happiness and flavor into my life? Life truly is full of surprises, and I am grateful for each and every one of them.