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Fresh Homemade Salsa

A vibrant and incredibly simple homemade salsa bursting with fresh flavor. Perfect for dipping or as a topping, this classic blend is a household favorite and prepared in just minutes.
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Course: Appetizer, Dip
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Keyword: fresh homemade salsa
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • A generous handful of fresh cilantro leaves roughly ⅓ cup, chopped
  • One large garlic clove peeled and coarsely minced
  • 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
  • About ¼ teaspoon of ground cumin
  • One medium jalapeño pepper deseeded and chopped roughly
  • Roughly 1¼ pounds of ripe Roma tomatoes approximately 5 to 6 in number
  • ½ teaspoon of granulated sugar optional for balance
  • Salt and black pepper adjusted to preference
  • 1 14.5-ounce can of petite-cut diced tomatoes, undrained
  • Around ⅓ cup finely diced red onion roughly a quarter of a medium bulb
  • 2 green onions ends trimmed and chopped into thirds
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder for added depth

Instructions

  • Place the chopped fresh Roma tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes, green onions, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and sugar (if using) into the bowl of a food processor.
  • Pulse the mixture in quick one-second intervals until the salsa reaches a finely chopped consistency, taking care not to over-process into a purée.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or for enhanced flavor, refrigerate for several hours to allow the ingredients to meld.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
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Notes

For best results, use high-quality, ripe tomatoes.
Canned diced tomatoes with green chiles or fire-roasted varieties can be substituted for added flavor.
For a stronger onion note, you may omit the green onions and increase the red onion to ¾ cup.
To adjust heat levels, retain jalapeño seeds or replace with a serrano for extra spice. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce offer a smoky, spicier variation.
Optional additions include ½ of a bell pepper, poblano, or Anaheim pepper.
To thin the salsa, a splash of tomato juice or tomato sauce may be added.