Best Homemade Salsa Ever Recipe

This Best Homemade Salsa Ever recipe is a must-try for any salsa lover! Bursting with fresh flavors and just the right amount of heat, it’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips or adding to your favorite dishes.

With simple ingredients like juicy tomatoes, zesty cilantro, and a kick from jalapeños, this salsa is easy to make and will elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack, this salsa is sure to impress!

Best Homemade Salsa Ever:

Ingredients

1 can (28 ounces) whole tomatoes (with juice)

2 cans (10 ounces each) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 small piece of garlic, chopped

1 jalapeño pepper, cut into four pieces and thinly sliced

1/4 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 cup cilantro (or more to taste)

Juice of half a lime

Instructions:

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the whole tomatoes (with juice), Rotel, chopped onion, jalapeño, garlic, sugar, salt, cumin, lime juice, and cilantro.

Step 2: Blend

Pulse the mixture until you reach your desired thickness, usually about 10 to 15 pulses.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Try the salsa with a tortilla chip and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 4: Chill

Refrigerate the salsa for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy with tortilla chips or on cheesy nachos!

Tips

Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your heat preference.

Adding more cilantro can enhance the flavor if you love it!

Enjoy your homemade salsa!

Notes:

Tomato Base: Using whole canned tomatoes ensures a rich, smooth texture. You can also substitute with fresh tomatoes when in season for a brighter flavor.

Heat Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice tolerance. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño.

Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute with parsley or simply omit it.

Chilling Time: Allowing the salsa to chill for at least an hour enhances the flavors, but it’s also tasty right after blending if you’re in a hurry.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors may intensify over time.

Versatility: This salsa can be used in various ways—try it on tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a topping for baked potatoes!

Customization: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans for a unique twist.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 6-8 medium ripe tomatoes should work well.

Blanch them to remove the skins if desired, and adjust the seasoning as fresh tomatoes may be less acidic.

How spicy is this salsa?

The spiciness depends on the jalapeño used.

If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño, or use half of it.

You can also add a small amount of diced bell pepper for sweetness.

Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, chilling it for at least an hour (or even overnight) allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when served.

How long does homemade salsa last in the fridge?

Homemade salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it’s best to discard it.

Can I freeze this salsa?

Yes, you can freeze salsa, but keep in mind that the texture may change after thawing.

It’s best used within 2-3 months.

Consider freezing in ice cube trays for easy portioning!

Do I need a blender or food processor to make this salsa?

While a blender or food processor is recommended for a smooth consistency, you can also chop all the ingredients by hand for a chunkier texture if you prefer.

How can I adjust the flavor if it’s too tangy or bland?

If the salsa is too tangy, try adding a pinch more sugar to balance the acidity.

If it’s bland, increase the salt or add more lime juice and fresh herbs for brightness.

What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley or omit it entirely.

For a different flavor, consider adding a small amount of fresh basil.

Can I add other ingredients to this salsa?

Yes! Feel free to customize your salsa by adding diced bell peppers, corn, black beans, or even mango for a fruity twist.

Just be mindful of how these additions may affect the texture and flavor balance.

Is it necessary to let the salsa sit before serving?

While it’s not strictly necessary, letting the salsa sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.