Homemade salsa brings a burst of freshness and a touch of personal flair to your meals, effortlessly transforming simple dishes into something special. The vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, zesty jalapeños, and fragrant cilantro creates a salsa that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The addition of lime juice and ground cumin provides a tangy and earthy depth, while the optional seeds in the jalapeño allow you to tailor the heat to your liking. This easy recipe captures the essence of homemade cooking—simple ingredients coming together to create a condiment that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1 small onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for less heat, or kept for more heat)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by washing the tomatoes and cutting them into quarters. If you prefer a smoother salsa, you can remove the seeds, but this is optional.
- Peel and roughly chop the onion.
- Slice the jalapeño pepper in half, remove the seeds and membranes if you want a milder salsa, and chop it coarsely.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- Blend the Ingredients:
- Place the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic in a food processor or blender. Pulse until you reach your desired consistency—smooth for a puréed salsa or slightly chunky for more texture.
- Add the cilantro leaves to the mixture. Pulse a few more times until the cilantro is finely chopped and well incorporated.
- Season the Salsa:
- Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl. Add the lime juice, ground cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lime juice, salt, or cumin based on your taste preferences.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting period enhances the overall taste.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature with your favorite chips, or use it as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or even scrambled eggs.
