By Barbara Pleasant, 29 August 2019
Salsa, the quintessential condiment made from fresh tomatoes and peppers, has its roots in Central America and Mexico. The word “salsa” simply means “sauce” in Spanish. Early versions of salsa were crafted by the Maya by grinding peppers, onions, and tomatoes or tomatillos. With the help of modern tools like a food processor, making fresh salsa is quick, easy, and incredibly rewarding. Plus, when acidified with lime or vinegar, cooked salsas can be safely canned for future enjoyment.
Here are three unique salsa recipes you can make from garden-fresh ingredients, perfect for everything from chips to tacos.
1. Garden-to-Table Fresh Salsa
If you’ve only ever tasted store-bought salsa, you’re in for a real treat with this homemade version. The key to a truly fresh salsa is to use raw onion, which might seem off-putting to some, but here it adds essential flavor. Drain your tomatoes for 30 minutes to remove excess juice, and feel free to adjust the heat by adding more peppers.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 small tomatoes (about 1.5 lbs or 680g), chopped and drained for 30 minutes
- 1 green onion, cut into 4 pieces
- ¼ medium onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 small sweet pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 large clove garlic, halved
- 1 lime, juiced (or 2 tbsp lime juice)
- ½ tsp each of chili powder, cumin, salt, and sugar
- Several sprigs of cilantro or parsley
Directions:
- Place all ingredients in a food processor and pulse for 10-12 seconds in 3-second intervals.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tip: Draining the tomatoes helps reduce excess water in the salsa, keeping the texture just right.
2. Great Green Salsas
Green salsa, or salsa verde, is typically made with tangy tomatillos, a hardy crop for warm climates. If you have green tomatoes nearing ripeness, they can be used in place of tomatillos to create a versatile sauce that pairs well with fish, enchiladas, omelets, or beans. This green salsa can last in the fridge for weeks, and it’s also great for canning as long as you use the proper acidification.
Ingredients:
- 12-15 tomatillos or 10-12 small green tomatoes, halved
- 2-3 jalapeños or other hot green peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup lime juice (120ml)
- ½ cup cilantro, parsley, or oregano (120g)
- ½ tsp salt
Directions:
- Place tomatillos or green tomatoes, peppers, and onion cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Broil under a preheated broiler for about 7 minutes, or until the skins begin to blacken and the vegetables collapse.
- Let the vegetables cool, then add the peppers, onion, garlic, lime juice, herbs, and salt into a food processor. Process for about 20 seconds until smooth.
- Chill before serving.
Tip: If your tomatillo skins are tough, remove them and use just the pulp for a smoother texture.
3. Canned Garden Salsa
Canning salsa is a great way to preserve the flavors of summer for months to come. By combining fresh tomatoes, peppers, and vinegar, you can create a delicious salsa that can be stored and enjoyed year-round. Be sure not to skimp on the vinegar to ensure safe acidification for canning.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups peeled, diced paste tomatoes
- 2 cups chopped peppers (mix of sweet and hot)
- 2 cups chopped onions
- ½ cup cider vinegar (120ml)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (oregano, cilantro, parsley)
- 1 tsp each cumin, chili powder, and salt
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine all ingredients and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, until onions are translucent and some of the liquid evaporates.
- Spoon the hot salsa into clean, hot jars.
- Process the jars in a water-bath or steam canner for 20 minutes.
Tip: If you don’t have paste tomatoes, let your chopped tomatoes drain for an hour to reduce excess juice before cooking.
With these recipes, you can enjoy fresh salsa straight from the garden, or preserve the vibrant flavors of summer in jars to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re looking for a simple fresh salsa, a tangy green sauce, or a canned variety, these salsas offer something for every palate.