This is the Best Fresh Tomato Salsa Recipe

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Salsa is a versatile and refreshing condiment that can enhance a variety of dishes, from tacos and burritos to grilled meats and even as a simple snack with tortilla chips.

While store-bought versions are convenient, there’s nothing quite like the flavor of homemade salsa made with fresh tomatoes.

This easy and quick salsa recipe brings together the vibrant tastes of ripe tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and zesty lime juice, all balanced with the right amount of spice.

Ingredients for Fresh Tomato Salsa

To make this fresh tomato salsa, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 3 cups freshly chopped tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Roma tomatoes are a good choice because they are firm and less watery, but any fresh, ripe tomato will work.
  • 1 cup finely diced onion: Red onions add a bit of sweetness and color, but yellow or white onions can also be used depending on your preference.
  • ½ cup chopped green bell pepper: This adds a nice crunch and mild sweetness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and lime juice.
  • ¼ cup minced fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright, herbal note to the salsa. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Lime juice is essential for adding tanginess and balancing the flavors. Freshly squeezed lime juice is best.
  • 4 teaspoons chopped fresh jalapeño pepper (including seeds): The jalapeño provides the salsa’s heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance. Keeping the seeds adds more heat, so remove them if you prefer a milder salsa.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that deepens the overall taste of the salsa.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste: Salt enhances all the other flavors in the salsa. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust as needed.
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle bite that complements the jalapeño’s heat.

Directions for Making Fresh Tomato Salsa

Making this fresh tomato salsa is incredibly simple and takes just a few minutes:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the tomatoes, onion, and green bell pepper. Mince the cilantro and jalapeño pepper. Make sure all the vegetables are cut into small, even pieces so that each bite of salsa has a good mix of flavors.
  2. Mix the Salsa: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, diced onion, green bell pepper, minced cilantro, lime juice, chopped jalapeño, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the tomatoes to release too much liquid, making the salsa watery.
  3. Taste and Adjust: After mixing, taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño depending on your preference. If you find the salsa too spicy, you can balance it with a little extra lime juice or add more chopped tomatoes.
  4. Serve or Chill: Fresh tomato salsa is best served immediately to enjoy the bright, fresh flavors. However, if you have time, letting it sit for about 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. You can also refrigerate the salsa for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This fresh tomato salsa is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

  • As a Dip: Serve the salsa with tortilla chips for a classic snack or appetizer. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a casual get-together.
  • Tacos and Burritos: Use this salsa as a topping for your favorite tacos, burritos, or fajitas. The freshness of the tomatoes and the zesty lime juice complement the richness of meats and beans.
  • Grilled Meats and Fish: Spoon the salsa over grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a burst of fresh flavor. It’s especially good with grilled shrimp or fish tacos.
  • Salads: Add a few spoonfuls of salsa to a salad for extra flavor and texture. It pairs well with avocado, black beans, and corn in a Mexican-inspired salad.
  • Eggs: Top scrambled eggs or an omelet with this fresh salsa for a flavorful breakfast or brunch.

Tips for the Best Fresh Tomato Salsa

  • Use Ripe Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will greatly affect the flavor of the salsa. Choose tomatoes that are ripe but still firm to avoid a mushy texture.
  • Adjust the Heat: Jalapeños can vary in spiciness. Taste a small piece before adding it to the salsa, and adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance. Removing the seeds and ribs of the jalapeño will reduce the heat.
  • Let It Marinate: If you have time, let the salsa sit for 20-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and intensify.
  • Keep It Fresh: Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within a couple of days, as the tomatoes will start to break down and become watery.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe yields about 5 cups of salsa, and each serving is roughly 2 tablespoons. The nutrition facts per serving are:

  • Calories: Approximately 8 calories
  • Total Fat: 0.1 g
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.4 g
  • Sugars: 1 g
  • Protein: 0.3 g

This salsa is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to any meal. It’s packed with vitamins, thanks to the fresh tomatoes, peppers, and cilantro.