vegetable salsa is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that is as versatile as it is delicious. This recipe combines a variety of crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and zesty lime juice to create a salsa that is perfect for dipping, topping, or simply enjoying on its own. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a healthy snack, or wanting to add a fresh element to your meal, this vegetable salsa is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Dice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper into small, even pieces. This ensures that each bite of salsa has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, and jalapeño pepper (if using). Add the corn kernels and black beans to the bowl. These ingredients add a delightful sweetness and earthiness to the salsa, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and lime juice.
- Season the Salsa: Chop the fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl. Drizzle the fresh lime juice and olive oil over the vegetables. Sprinkle the ground cumin over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. The lime juice adds a refreshing tang, while the cumin provides a warm, earthy undertone that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Mix and Chill: Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to mash the vegetables; you want them to retain their crispness. Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious salsa.
- Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salsa a final stir and taste to adjust any seasonings if necessary. Serve the fresh vegetable salsa with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal. This salsa is best enjoyed within a day or two while the vegetables are still crisp and the flavors are at their peak.
