Tangy Garden Homemade Salsa Recipe (Print Version)

Craft fresh Tangy Garden Homemade Salsa Recipe! Bursting with garden tomatoes, cilantro, and a kick. Perfect for chips or tacos. Easy to make, full of flavor.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mexican
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Vegan

# Ingredients:

→ Fresh Produce

01 - 4-5 ripe Roma tomatoes (or 2 large beefsteak), finely diced
02 - 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced
03 - 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced (adjust to heat preference)
04 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

→ Flavor Boosters

05 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
06 - 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get those tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño ready for your salsa. I like to finely dice the tomatoes, aiming for small, even pieces. For the onion, a super fine dice is key to avoid big, overpowering chunks. And with the jalapeño, remember to remove those seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat—I always do, unless I'm feeling particularly feisty. I usually do this on a big cutting board, sometimes making a bit of a mess, but that's part of the fun, right?
02 - Next up, grab that fresh cilantro and give it a good chop. You want it finely minced so its flavor is evenly distributed throughout your salsa. Then, mince your garlic cloves. I'm a big fan of a garlic press here, just to save my fingers from smelling like garlic for days, though sometimes I just go old school with a knife. The smell of fresh garlic and cilantro together? Oh, it's just the start of something amazing, honestly.
03 - Now for the satisfying part! Transfer all your diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and minced garlic into a large mixing bowl. Make sure it's big enough so you can stir without everything spilling over – I've learned that the hard way, cleaning up tomato bits from the counter. This is where the magic starts to happen for your Homemade Salsa Recipe, seeing all those vibrant colors come together.
04 - Squeeze in the fresh lime juice. Don't skimp here; it’s vital for that bright, zesty flavor. Then, sprinkle in the sea salt and ground cumin. If you're using cayenne pepper for extra heat, add it now. I always start with a little less salt and cumin, knowing I can always adjust later. Trust your nose here; the aroma of lime and cumin is just wonderful.
05 - Give everything a good, gentle stir to combine all the ingredients for your salsa. You want to mix it well, but not mash it. Taste a small spoonful. This is your moment to adjust the seasonings. Need more salt? A little more lime? A touch more heat? Go for it! I usually add a tiny bit more lime because I love that tangy kick. Don't be afraid to tweak it until it's just right for your palate.
06 - This step is crucial, honestly. Cover the bowl and let your Homemade Salsa Recipe chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour if you can wait. This resting period allows all those incredible flavors to meld and deepen. It's like a little flavor party happening in your fridge! When you pull it out, it'll smell even more amazing, and the taste will be so much richer.

# Notes:

01 - Honestly, let your salsa sit for at least 30 minutes. The flavors just meld so much better, I learned that the hard way rushing it once! Don't over-process your ingredients if you're using a food processor; a chunky texture is key for this salsa. Always taste and adjust seasonings at the end. What tastes good to me might need a little extra something for you! For an extra smoky flavor, try charring your jalapeño and one tomato under the broiler before dicing. It adds incredible depth! If you like a smoother salsa, pulse half of the ingredients in a food processor, then stir in the remaining diced half for texture. Taste your tomatoes before you start; if they're a bit bland, a tiny pinch of sugar can surprisingly enhance their natural sweetness.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Cutting board
02 - sharp knife
03 - large mixing bowl
04 - (optional: food processor
05 - garlic press)

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