Fresh Tomato Salsa

Ingredients:
- 3 Roma tomatoes, finely diced (about 1½ cups)
- ¼ cup red onion, very finely diced
- 1 jalapeños, finely diced, seeded for less heat
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped (or cilantro, if desired)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Method:
Start Cooking- Dice the tomatoes and place them in a medium bowl.
- Add the finely diced red onion and jalapeños.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Toss gently so the tomatoes keep their shape and do not become mushy.
- Let the salsa rest at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Bon appétit.
Kitchen Tools:
Notes:
- Roma tomatoes work especially well for fresh salsa because they are firm and less watery than many other varieties. This helps the salsa stay chunky and prevents excess liquid from forming in the bowl.
- Letting the salsa rest before serving allows the lime juice, herbs, and vegetables to blend into a more balanced flavor.
- Milder: Use only one jalapeño or remove the seeds completely.
- Spicier: Add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Smoky twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or finely diced roasted poblano pepper.
- Serve fresh tomato salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, grilled fish, quesadillas, or roasted vegetables.
- It also works well as a topping for eggs, rice bowls, or grain salads for a burst of freshness.
Nutrition:
FROM THE PANTRY
Salsa (Pico de gallo)
WHY WE LOVE IT
Beyond a dip for chips, it also works as a fresh, healthy condiment for grilled fish, salads, baked potatoes, tacos, and even burgers. It is bright, crisp, and naturally vibrant.
A LITTLE STORY
Salsa originated with the Aztec, Mayan, and Incan civilizations, who used a stone mortar to grind native chiles and tomatoes into savory sauces. It became a global staple after Spanish conquistadors named it “salsa” in the 1500s and added Old World ingredients like onions and garlic.
DID YOU KNOW?
Tomatoes provide lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health, while peppers contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and trigger the brain to release endorphins and dopamine.