Basic Fresh Tomato Salsa
Use fresh salsa as a side or topping for Mexican food, or use it as a dip for chips. When you need something to spice up a dish, consider fresh salsa!
Fresh tomato salsa, also known as pico de gallo, is a traditional Mexican condiment. A typical fresh salsa recipe includes tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeño peppers, lime juice, and salt.
There are many variations of fresh tomato salsa. Some popular additional ingredients include bell peppers, avocado, tomatillos, and garlic.
What I love about fresh salsa is the texture. You won’t find that in a store-bought salsa, even those labeled “fresh.” Jarred salsas tend to be smooth, and store-bought fresh salsas are chunky but rather soft.
Salsa is versatile, too. Use it to top tacos, burritos, grilled meats, and quesadillas, or add it as a side dish. It makes a great dip for tortilla chips, too. When you need something to spice up a dish, consider fresh salsa!
Basic Fresh Tomato Salsa
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 medium plum tomatoes, diced, about 2 cups diced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro
- 1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 small clove garlic, mashed into a paste
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar or lime juice
- 1 scant teaspoon granulated sugar, optional
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a serving bowl; stir to blend.
- Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate until serving time.
