Restaurant Style Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant Style Salsa is the perfect combination of fresh, tangy, and spicy flavors that you often find in your favorite Mexican restaurant. This homemade version is incredibly easy to make, packed with vibrant ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a hint of lime juice. It’s much fresher and tastier than store-bought salsa and can be adjusted to your preferred level of heat. Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats, this salsa will add a burst of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, quartered

• 1/2 red onion, roughly chopped

• 1-2 jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat (or leave seeds for more heat)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup water (optional, for desired consistency)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Quarter the tomatoes, chop the onion, and remove the seeds from the jalapeños if you prefer a milder salsa. If you like it spicier, leave the seeds in. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.

2. Blend the ingredients: Place the tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, garlic, and cilantro in a food processor or blender. Pulse the mixture a few times until you reach your desired consistency. For a chunkier salsa, pulse less, and for a smoother salsa, blend more. If the salsa is too thick, add a bit of water to reach your preferred consistency.

3. Season the salsa: Add lime juice, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Chill and serve: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve it chilled with tortilla chips, tacos, or any Mexican dish you like.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Chill time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Roasted salsa: For a smoky flavor, roast the tomatoes, jalapeños, and garlic under the broiler or on a grill until charred, then blend as usual. This adds depth and a roasted flavor to the salsa.

• Fruit salsa: Add diced mango, pineapple, or peach for a sweet twist on the traditional salsa. This pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

• Spicy salsa: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also try serrano peppers for an even spicier kick.

• Add avocado: For a creamy variation, mix in some diced avocado or blend it into the salsa for a smoother texture.

Storage

• Storage: Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

• Freezing: Salsa can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave room in the container for expansion. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes for this salsa?

While fresh tomatoes are ideal, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Make sure to use whole or diced tomatoes with no added seasonings or sugars.

How can I make this salsa milder?

To make the salsa milder, use only half of a jalapeño or remove all the seeds and membranes before adding them. Alternatively, you can use a milder pepper like a poblano.

Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Yes, this salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. The flavors actually improve and intensify after sitting for a while.

Can I use a food processor instead of a blender?

Yes, a food processor works just as well for making salsa, especially if you want a chunkier texture.

How can I make this salsa thicker?

If your salsa is too thin, simply blend fewer tomatoes, or add more onion, cilantro, or jalapeño for a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Restaurant Style Salsa is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make condiment that can elevate any dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a salsa that’s packed with flavor and customizable to your personal taste. Whether you like it mild or spicy, chunky or smooth, this homemade salsa is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Perfect for chips, tacos, grilled meats, or even as a topping for salads, this salsa will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Restaurant Style Salsa

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• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

Restaurant Style Salsa is the perfect combination of fresh, tangy, and spicy flavors that you often find in your favorite Mexican restaurant. This homemade version is easy to make and packed with vibrant ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s fresher and tastier than store-bought salsa and customizable to your preferred level of heat.

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Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 red onion, roughly chopped
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat (or leave seeds for more heat)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup water (optional, for desired consistency)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Quarter the tomatoes, chop the onion, and remove the seeds from the jalapeños if you prefer a milder salsa. If you like it spicier, leave the seeds in. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
2. Blend the ingredients: Place the tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, garlic, and cilantro in a food processor or blender. Pulse the mixture a few times until you reach your desired consistency. For a chunkier salsa, pulse less, and for a smoother salsa, blend more. Add water if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
3. Season the salsa: Add lime juice, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, tacos, or any Mexican dish you like.

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Notes

For a smoky flavor, roast the tomatoes, jalapeños, and garlic under the broiler or on a grill until charred before blending.Try adding diced mango, pineapple, or peach for a sweet twist on the salsa.For extra heat, add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper, or try serrano peppers for a spicier kick.Add diced avocado for a creamy variation of the salsa.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Varies
• Sugar: Varies
• Sodium: Varies
• Fat: Varies
• Saturated Fat: Varies
• Unsaturated Fat: Varies
• Trans Fat: Varies
• Carbohydrates: Varies
• Fiber: Varies
• Protein: Varies
• Cholesterol: Varies