This vibrant and zesty homemade salsa is bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for dipping, topping, or snacking. Made with simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, it’s quick, easy, and customizable to your preferred spice level. Don’t lose this recipe—it’s a game-changer for taco nights, parties, or anytime you need a delicious dip!
Ingredients
- 1 can (28 ounces) whole tomatoes with juice
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 whole jalapeño, quartered and sliced thin
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped (more to taste!)
- Juice of ½ lime
Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients and prep them for blending. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the jalapeño thinly, and chop the cilantro.
- If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before slicing. For extra heat, leave them in or add an extra pepper.
Pro Tip: Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor—bottled lime juice can alter the taste.
Step 2: Blend the Salsa
- In a blender or food processor, combine the whole tomatoes (with their juice), Rotel, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced jalapeño, sugar, salt, cumin, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Pulse the mixture until you reach your desired consistency. For a chunkier salsa, pulse fewer times (about 10 pulses). For a smoother salsa, blend longer (about 15–20 pulses).
Customization Idea: Adjust the amount of jalapeño, cilantro, or lime juice to suit your taste preferences.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
- Test the salsa by dipping a tortilla chip into it. Adjust the seasonings as needed—add more salt, lime juice, or cilantro to balance the flavors.
- If you’d like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Transfer the salsa to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips, cheese nachos, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats and veggies.
Storage Tip: Store leftover salsa in the refrigerator for up to 5 days . The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier!
Tips for Success
- Fresh Tomatoes Option: Substitute the canned tomatoes with 4 large fresh tomatoes, blanched and peeled, for a fresher twist.
- Make It Smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a charred poblano pepper for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Spice Control: Use mild Rotel for a milder salsa or hot Rotel if you love spice.
- Double the Batch: This salsa is so good, you’ll want to make extra to share or freeze for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade salsa is the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. With its bright notes of lime, earthy cumin, and fresh cilantro, it’s a step above store-bought salsa. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress. Best of all, it’s quick, easy, and completely customizable to your taste. Don’t lose this one—it’s a keeper!
