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Make fresh and flavorful homemade salsa with this easy recipe featuring tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, and a blend of spices. Perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. This versatile salsa is quick to prepare, customizable to your spice level, and ideal for parties, gatherings, or everyday meals.

Ingredients

28 oz. whole plum tomatoes (with juice)
1 small white onion, peeled and roughly chopped
1-2 jalapeño peppers, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
4-5 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves (stems removed)
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

Blend Ingredients
Combine all ingredients in a food processor, blender, or a large pot/bowl if using an immersion blender. Pulse the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
Refrigerate
Transfer the salsa to a container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
Serve
Pour the salsa into a serving dish and enjoy with tortilla chips, nachos, or your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.

Notes

Using Fresh Tomatoes

Substitute canned tomatoes with 28 oz. of fresh tomatoes. For roasted tomatoes, halve the fresh ones and broil them cut-side down on a baking sheet until the skins loosen. Peel off the skins once cooled.
One (28 oz.) can of tomatoes equals approximately 3 cups undrained or 2.5 cups drained.

Pro Tips

Spicy Salsa: Leave the white membrane inside the jalapeño for extra heat.
Thicker Salsa: Blend less for a chunky texture or reserve some tomato juice and add back as needed.
Flavor Infusion: Allow the salsa to chill for at least an hour or overnight for deeper flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep.
Fresh and Flavorful: Made with wholesome ingredients and customizable to your taste.
Versatile: Perfect as a dip, topping, or side dish for a variety of meals.

Tips

Adjust Heat: Use more or fewer jalapeños depending on your spice preference.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the flavor.
Customize Texture: Pulse for a smooth salsa or blend lightly for a chunkier version.

Variations and Substitutions

Tomatoes: Try fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Cilantro: Omit cilantro or replace it with parsley if preferred.
Peppers: Substitute jalapeños with serrano peppers for more heat or poblano peppers for milder salsa.

FAQs

Can I freeze salsa?
Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How long does homemade salsa last?
Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 5 days.

What can I use instead of lime juice?
Lemon juice or vinegar can be used as an alternative.

Serving

Serve your salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, or as a topping for grilled meats and salads.

Suggestions

Pair with homemade tortilla chips, guacamole, or queso for a party-ready appetizer.
Use as a topping for nachos, baked tacos, or fajitas.
Mix into scrambled eggs or serve over a rice bowl for added flavor.

This homemade salsa recipe is a must-have for any gathering or Mexican-inspired meal. Simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor!