Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Begin by washing and drying all the vegetables.
2. Dice the tomatoes and finely chop the red onion.
3. Seed and finely chop the jalapeno pepper.
4. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, jalapeno pepper, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.
6. Add the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 2 cups of salsa, serving 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 25
Fat: 0.2g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Sugar: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If jalapeno peppers are too spicy, you can use a milder pepper like poblano or Anaheim.
- If you don't have fresh cilantro, you can use dried cilantro or substitute with parsley.
Variations:
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Add corn kernels for a sweet and crunchy addition.
- Add black beans for a protein boost.
Tips and tricks:
- For a chunkier salsa, chop the vegetables into larger pieces.
- For a smoother salsa, pulse the ingredients in a food processor.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeno pepper.
Storage instructions:
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Salsa is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the salsa in a bowl with tortilla chips on the side.
Garnishes:
Garnish with additional cilantro leaves or a lime wedge.
Pairings:
Salsa pairs well with Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, or a side of rice and beans.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salsa is too watery, drain some of the excess liquid before serving.
- If the salsa is too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to cool it down.
Food safety advice:
- Wash your hands and all the vegetables thoroughly before preparing the salsa.
- Keep the salsa refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Discard any leftover salsa that has been sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
Salsa originated in Mexico and has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. It was traditionally made with tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers and served as a condiment for tacos and other dishes.
Flavor profiles:
Salsa is a fresh and flavorful condiment with a balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the salsa as a dip for tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burritos, and grilled meats.
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Region: Mexican