This homemade salsa is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh and zesty flavors. Combining canned tomatoes, Rotel, and fresh jalapeño with cilantro and lime juice, this salsa is vibrant and versatile. It can be easily customized to your taste, whether you prefer it mild or with an extra kick of heat. Serve it with tortilla chips, spoon it over tacos, or use it as a topping for grilled meats. The flavors get even better after sitting in the fridge for a couple of hours, making it a great make-ahead option for parties and gatherings.
If you’re a fan of fresh, zesty flavors, this recipe for the Best Homemade Salsa Ever is exactly what you need. Made with a simple mix of canned tomatoes, Rotel, and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleasing salsa.
INGREDIENTS
- Whole tomatoes with juice: 1 can (28 ounces) adds a base of sweetness and rich tomato flavor to the salsa.
- Rotel: 2 cans (10 ounces each) of diced tomatoes and green chilies bring a bit of heat and tanginess to the mix.
- Chopped onion: 1/4 cup of onion adds a sharp bite and balances the richness of the tomatoes.
- Garlic: 1 clove of minced garlic provides a subtle depth of flavor.
- Jalapeño: 1 whole jalapeño, quartered and sliced thin, for heat. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Sugar: 1/4 teaspoon balances the acidity of the tomatoes without making the salsa overly sweet.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Ground cumin: 1/4 teaspoon adds a warm, earthy flavor to the salsa.
- Cilantro: 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro (or more to taste) gives the salsa its fresh, herbal punch.
- Lime juice: Juice from 1/2 a lime brightens up the flavors and adds a tangy finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large food processor, combine the whole tomatoes with their juice, the Rotel, chopped onion, minced garlic, jalapeño, sugar, salt, and ground cumin.
- Step 2:
- Add the cilantro and lime juice to the food processor. These fresh ingredients will give your salsa a burst of flavor and brightness.
- Step 3:
- Pulse the food processor several times to combine all the ingredients. You can pulse fewer times for a chunkier salsa or more for a smoother consistency, depending on your preference.
- Step 4:
- Taste the salsa and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer more heat, add more jalapeño or Rotel. If you like a fresher taste, add more cilantro or lime juice.
- Step 5:
- Once the salsa reaches your desired consistency, transfer it to a bowl. You can serve it immediately, but for the best flavor, refrigerate the salsa for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the salsa for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the salsa with tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.
- This salsa also pairs well with scrambled eggs, baked potatoes, or even as a salad dressing.
- Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days, and the flavor will continue to develop over time.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier salsa, you can add more jalapeños or leave the seeds in for extra heat.
- If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or reduce the amount of Rotel used.
- Feel free to adjust the cilantro and lime juice based on your taste preferences. Add more cilantro for a fresh herbal flavor or more lime juice for extra tang.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless recommends using freshly roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor in your salsa.
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests using a combination of fresh and canned tomatoes for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Chef Marcela Valladolid advises always tasting and adjusting your salsa after it sits for a while, as the flavors can change as they meld together.