Ingredients
- 2 (15-ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes – Fire-roasted tomatoes add a deep, slightly smoky flavor that mimics the taste of salsa from a restaurant. If you can’t find them, regular canned diced tomatoes will work as well.
- ½ red onion, roughly chopped – Red onion provides a slightly sweet and mild onion flavor. If you prefer a stronger taste, use white onion.
- 3–4 cloves garlic, smashed – Garlic adds depth and richness to the salsa. If you prefer a more subtle garlic flavor, use two cloves instead.
- 1 jalapeño, ribs and seeds removed – Removing the seeds keeps the salsa mild, but if you like more heat, leave some seeds in. For an even spicier version, use two jalapeños or swap for a serrano pepper.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves – Cilantro gives the salsa its bright, fresh taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.
- Juice of 2 limes – Fresh lime juice adds acidity and balances the flavors. If limes are unavailable, use lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- ½ teaspoon cumin – Cumin enhances the earthiness of the salsa and adds a warm, slightly smoky note.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper – This is optional, but it adds a touch of heat and complexity to the salsa.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste – These seasonings help bring out all the flavors in the salsa. Start with a generous pinch and adjust as needed.
Instructions
Step 1: Add Ingredients to a Blender
Place all the ingredients into a high-speed blender or food processor. If using a food processor, you may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your appliance.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Blend on high for about one minute, or until all the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined. If you prefer a chunkier salsa, pulse the blender a few times instead of running it continuously.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Once blended, taste the salsa and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, lime juice, or cumin, depending on your preference. If the salsa is too thick, add a small splash of water to loosen the consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl and pair it with your favorite tortilla chips. For the best flavor, let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
How to Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds from the jalapeño and use only half of the pepper. For a spicier salsa, leave some seeds in or add an extra jalapeño. If you like extreme heat, try using a serrano or habanero pepper instead.
How to Fix a Watery Salsa
If your salsa turns out thinner than you’d like, try adding an extra can of tomatoes or a small handful of diced fresh tomatoes. Blending for too long can also make salsa more watery, so pulse the blender for a chunkier consistency.
How to Store Salsa
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even better the next day. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the salsa in small portions and thawing as needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes