Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This green salsa is incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The tomatillos provide a tangy base, while the onion and cilantro add depth and freshness. The lime juice adds a refreshing zing, and the optional jalapeño gives it just the right amount of heat if you like a little spice. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of Mexican dishes, from tacos to grilled meats, and can be made ahead of time for a week’s worth of delicious meals. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for any dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Directions
- Prepare the tomatillos: Husk the tomatillos and rinse them under cold water to remove the sticky residue. Cut them into halves or quarters if they are large.
- Cook the tomatillos: In a saucepan, add the tomatillos and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the tomatillos cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly darker in color. Alternatively, you can roast them on a skillet or under the broiler for a smoky flavor.
- Blend the salsa: Once the tomatillos are cooked and softened, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the chopped onion, optional jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Blend until smooth or to your desired consistency.
- Season: Taste the salsa and add salt to your preference. If you want a smoother salsa, blend for a little longer.
- Serve: Serve the salsa verde immediately or refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes approximately 1 ½ cups of salsa.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
Variations
- Roasted salsa verde: For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatillos, onion, and jalapeño on a dry skillet or under the broiler until charred, then blend as usual.
- Spicy salsa: Add more jalapeños or a serrano pepper for an extra spicy kick.
- Smoky salsa: Add a small amount of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Sweet salsa: Add a small piece of mango or pineapple for a sweet twist to balance the tang of the tomatillos.
Storage/Reheating
- Storing: Salsa verde can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Salsas are typically served cold, but if you prefer a warm salsa, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make salsa verde with raw tomatillos?
Yes, you can make salsa verde with raw tomatillos, but cooking them (either boiling or roasting) brings out their flavor and softens them, making it easier to blend.
Can I make salsa verde without jalapeños?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder salsa, simply leave out the jalapeño. The tomatillos and other ingredients will still create a delicious salsa.
Is salsa verde spicy?
The level of spice depends on how much jalapeño or other spicy peppers you add. If you want to keep it mild, use just a small amount of jalapeño or skip it altogether.
Can I freeze salsa verde?
Yes, salsa verde can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the fridge before serving.
How do I adjust the flavor of the salsa?
If the salsa is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavor. If it’s too spicy, add more tomatillos or cilantro to tone down the heat.
Can I use canned tomatillos?
Yes, you can use canned tomatillos if fresh ones aren’t available. Drain and rinse them before using them in the recipe.
How do I make the salsa smoother?
For a smoother salsa, simply blend the ingredients longer in the food processor or blender.
Can I add avocado to salsa verde?
Yes, adding avocado will create a creamy version of salsa verde. Just blend in half or a whole avocado for a richer texture.
What can I serve salsa verde with?
Salsa verde is perfect with tacos, grilled meats, quesadillas, burritos, or even as a dip for chips.
How long will homemade salsa verde last in the fridge?
Homemade salsa verde can last up to 1 week in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Salsa verde is a vibrant and versatile sauce that adds a fresh, tangy kick to any dish. Whether you’re using it to top tacos, serve with grilled meats, or dip tortilla chips, this salsa is sure to elevate your meal. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s the perfect go-to salsa for any occasion. Enjoy the bright and zesty flavors of this Mexican classic with every bite!
Print
Salsas Verdes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 1 ½ cups
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Salsas Verdes (Green Salsa) is a tangy, vibrant Mexican condiment made with fresh tomatillos, cilantro, lime, and an optional jalapeño for a little heat. This versatile salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or dipping chips. With its bright and refreshing flavors, it’s a must-have in your kitchen for any Mexican meal. Whether you like it mild or spicy, this easy-to-make salsa will become your go-to for adding flavor to any dish!
Ingredients
1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
1/2 onion, chopped
1 jalapeño, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the tomatillos: Husk the tomatillos and rinse them under cold water to remove the sticky residue. Cut them into halves or quarters if large.
-
Cook the tomatillos: In a saucepan, cover the tomatillos with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly darker in color. Alternatively, roast them on a skillet or under the broiler for a smoky flavor.
-
Blend the salsa: Transfer the cooked tomatillos to a blender or food processor. Add the chopped onion, jalapeño (optional), cilantro, and lime juice. Blend until smooth or to your desired consistency.
-
Season: Taste the salsa and add salt as needed. For a smoother consistency, blend longer.
-
Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
Roasted Salsa Verde: For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatillos, onion, and jalapeño on a dry skillet or under the broiler before blending.
Spicy Salsa: Add more jalapeños or serrano peppers for extra heat.
Smoky Salsa: For a smoky twist, blend in a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
Sweet Salsa: Add a small piece of mango or pineapple for a sweet variation to balance the tangy tomatillos.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending, Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
