This Homemade Salsa recipe is made in your blender, on your table in 5 minutes, and tastes better than your favorite restaurant or jar! Living in San Diego, I am a salsa connoisseur, and this recipe is as good as I’ve tasted 🤩. It allows you to customize the heat and consistency, can be made ahead of time, and the layers of flavor are out of this world.
Watch How To Make Salsa
Why you’ll love this Homemade Salsa Recipe
Best Salsa Recipe Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this salsa recipe (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):
What Tomatoes are Best for Homemade Salsa? (Canned vs Fresh)
You can use fresh or canned tomatoes for homemade salsa but the key is that they are ROASTED.ย ย
FIRE-ROASTED Canned Diced Tomatoes: I prefer canned tomatoes because they are picked and canned at their peak ripeness, which means they are flavorful and sweet. They also make this salsa recipe super quick and easy to make any time of the year.ย So, stock up your pantry and enjoy this delicious salsa whenever you want.
How to Make Homemade Salsa
You will LOVE how easy it is to make homemade salsa! All you need is a blender or food processor, and you can dip into this recipe in minutes! Add the ingredients to a blender in two stages, and pulse a few times until it reaches the desired consistency. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):
Blender Salsa recipe tips
How to Adjust Blender Salsa
What I especially love about this homemade salsa recipe is you can completely control the consistency and flavor. I recommend trying this recipe as written and then customizing it so it’s perfect FOR YOU!
Homemade Salsa Recipe Variations
Here are several ways you can customize your homemade salsa recipe:
What should I serve with Homemade Salsa?
- Tortilla chips
- Tacos
- Burritos
- Burrito Bowls
- Enchiladas
- Fajitas
- Nachos
- Tostadas
- Tamales
- Taquitos
- Chilaquiles
- Huevos
- Mexican Rice
- Cilantro Lime Rice
- Beans
- Salads
How long does homemade salsa last?
Store salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. The longer it sits, the more mellow the acidity will become so you may want to add a fresh squeeze of lime juice to taste.
Can I freeze Homemade Salsa?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option if you have leftover salsa, want to double the batch, or make some for later. To freeze, add salsa to a freezer safe, airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before servings.
Salsa Recipe Easy FAQs
Homemade salsa is a healthy choice because it’s packed with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients. Tomatoes, a primary ingredient, are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Fresh onions and garlic provide beneficial compounds that may boost immune function and offer antimicrobial properties. The addition of cilantro adds vitamins A and K, while lime juice provides a dose of vitamin C, enhancing the salsa’s nutritional value. By making salsa at home, you can control the amount of salt and avoid preservatives and added sugars often found in store-bought versions, making it a wholesome, low-calorie condiment that supports overall well-being.
Salsa and pico de gallo are both popular Mexican condiments, but they have some key differences:
1. Texture and Consistency: Salsa typically has a smoother texture, which can range from chunky to pureed, depending on the recipe. It often involves blending or processing the ingredients. Pico de gallo, on the other hand, is known for its chunky texture, with ingredients cut into small, uniform pieces and mixed together without blending.
2. Ingredients: Both salsa and pico de gallo use similar core ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. However, pico de gallo usually has fewer ingredients and is more focused on fresh, raw components. Salsa might include additional ingredients like garlic, peppers, and spices, and can sometimes be cooked or roasted.
3. Preparation: Pico de gallo is always served fresh and raw, preserving the crispness of the vegetables. Salsa can be served fresh or cooked, and some recipes involve roasting the vegetables to develop deeper flavors.
4. Flavor Profile: Pico de gallo tends to have a brighter, more pronounced flavor due to its raw ingredients. Salsa, especially if cooked, can have a richer, more complex flavor profile and might be spicier or have a more varied taste depending on the added ingredients and preparation method.ย
In general, making your own salsa can be more cost-effective, especially if you grow some of the ingredients yourself or buy them in bulk when they’re in season. Basic salsa ingredients like onions, peppers, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice are often relatively inexpensive, especially if purchased locally or in larger quantities. Additionally, using canned fire roasted tomatoes can also save on costs. However, if you’re making a gourmet salsa with expensive or exotic ingredients, or if fresh produce is costly in your area, store-bought salsa might be more economical.
Yes, salsa should be refrigerated to maintain its freshness and because it contains fresh ingredients like onions and cilantro which need to be chilled to prevent bacterial growth.
Essential ingredients for a flavorful salsa include fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeรฑos, which together create a vibrant and well-balanced dish.
The key ingredients for a delicious homemade salsa recipe typically include tomatoes, fresh onions, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeรฑo peppers. For an extra kick, you can also add a pinch of salt and ground black pepper. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful salsa that’s perfect for dipping or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
To make your homemade salsa taste like it’s from a restaurant, use fresh, high-quality ingredients and ensure that your tomatoes are ripe. Roast or grill your tomatoes and peppers or use fire-roasted diced canned tomatoes before blending to enhance their flavor. Also experiment with seasoning to achieve a perfect blend of flavors and use plenty of salt to taste.
Yes, you can make homemade salsa ahead of time and store it. Keep the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the salsa in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw and mix it well before serving.
To adjust the spiciness of your homemade salsa, you can modify the amount of jalapeรฑo peppers or other hot peppers used in the recipe. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers, or use fewer peppers. For a spicier kick, include more peppers or use hotter varieties like serrano or habanero.
Homemade salsa is incredibly versatile. Besides serving it with tortilla chips, you can use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, and grilled meats. It also works well as a condiment for scrambled eggs, a marinade for chicken or fish, or even as a flavorful addition to soups and stews. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you enjoy my 5 Minute Easy Salsa Recipe that will completely transport you to your favorite Mexican restaurantโthat is, if your favorite Mexican restaurant even serves salsa this good!
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Tools Used in This Recipe
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Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1-2 jalapeno or serrano chili peppers, seeded and deveined (reserve seeds)
- 1 small yellow onion, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup packed fresh cilantro (some stems are fine)
- 2 tsps EACH ground cumin, chili powder
- 1 tsp EACH salt, dried Mexican oregano (may sub. regular oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
ADD LATER
- 2 14 oz. cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes (drained, save juices)
- 2 oz. mild diced green chilies (½ of a 4 oz. can)
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients EXCEPT the tomatoes and green chiles to the blender in the order listed (reserving jalapeno seeds). Blend until evenly chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add the tomatoes and chiles and pulse until the desired consistency is reached. If you like a thinner salsa, you can add some reserved tomato juices.
- Season with freshly cracked salt to taste. For a spicier salsa, add the desired amount of jalapeno seeds.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Video
Notes
ย
- For a smoother salsa, chop/blend more
- For a thinner salsa, add juice from the fire roasted tomato cans
- For a spicier salsa, add some or all of the jalapeno seeds-stirring in a little at a time until it reaches your desired heat level.ย You can also add cayenne or ground chipotle chile powder.ย
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Carlsbad Cravings Originally Published 6/1/2019, Updated 8/26/24
Kungphoo says
5 minute spicy salsa.. i like that.. I am a dipper, so this works good for me.
Jen says
LOL! I am a dipper too! Everything is better dipped!
Melissa Smith says
I love restaurant style salsa but for some reason never make it at home. But this one being only 5 min., I’m sure I can handle that. Thanks for sharing!
Jen says
I was the same way forever Melissa! Once i figured out I could make salsa in a blender, I was sold! I’m excited for you to try this!
Paula Parker says
I love this recipe. I love that is fast and fun. Great for parties! Yay
Jen says
So great for parties! And for a last minute idea to bring to parties too! Thanks Paula!
Janette@culinaryginger says
What perfect looking salsa, looks like restaurant style. Yum.
Jen says
Thanks so much Janette! Its a keeper!
FamiGami says
A good salsa is very hard to find, let a lone make. Your recipe shall be tested!
Jen says
Can’t wait to hear what you think!
Sophia @ NY Foodgasm says
Great easy recipe Jennifer, I am amazed by your skills!
Heather (@thedomesticdiva) says
((drooling)) this look so good!
Jen says
Thanks so much Heather!
Platter Talk says
Love the sound and look of this salsa; very nicely done!
Jen says
Thanks so much Dan! Enjoy!
Serena | Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch says
Delish! Looks just like at our favorite Mexican Food Restaurant!
Jen says
Thanks Serena! No need to go to your favorite restaurant anymore for salsa :)!
Katerina says
This salsa looks amazing! Yum!
Jen says
Thanks Katerina! You will love it ๐
Elayna Fernandez ~ The Positive MOM says
This looks absolutely delightful. I just love how yummy it looks and I want to eat it now. LOL
Jen says
Thank you Elayna! I hope you can eat it soon – like in 5 minutes ๐
Kim says
This looks just like my husbands favorite restaurants salsa. Trying this today but a question. How much would the flavor change if I used my garden tomatoes? And how many? I have heirloom beefsteaks, Roma, Amish paste and Juliet minis. Thank you
Jen says
Hi Kim, that’s so great to be able to use your own tomatoes! Fire roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a little smokiness, so that’s the subtle flavor you would be missing but you could always fire roast your own tomatoes on your grill (you should be able to google how). Or you could add a little liquid smoke and may need a dash of sugar. As far as how many, you would want 29 oz. worth, which is a little over 3 1/2 cups. Also, you would want to add some water to your preferred consistency because the cans of tomatoes have water. Hope this helps and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
Kim says
Great, thanks for the input. I will look up the fire roasting of tomatoes. But if that does not work out I do have liquid smoke.
Ashley says
I made this salsa about an hour ago, and let just say that I don’t think it will last a week. I’ve been obsessed with salsa lately, and this homemade one is better than any that I’ve had! So good!!!
Jen says
YAY! I am so happy you love this salsa! I am obsessed with salsa as well so I find excuses to put in all sorts of things. I even put it in a cheese sauce for a pasta last time I made it – I highly recommend it ๐
Judy says
Made this over the weekend it was soooo good. So that is 5 recipes I have made from this site and they were all excellent. The only suggestion I could make for this site is create an app. Lol. Seriously all of your recipes are very good. I would love to see an app or cookbook. I am making the sticky ginger lemon chicken for supper. I thought the chicken was suppose to be marinated in buttermilk and had already poured it out so it will be the ginger chicken that has been marinated. Thanks again for the work you put in this site. Your site is becoming to my first stop when I am looking for a recipe.
Jen says
You are so sweet Judy, thank you for all your kind words! I love to hear that you are enjoying my recipes as they are like my babies as I put so much thought and effort into each one, so THANK YOU! I might do an E-book sometime in the future but it will be a ways out as it is quite a project to tackle ๐ I hope you continue to find more recipes to love here.
And your marinated chicken will be even better than the original ๐
Megan says
I’ve been making Pioneer Woman’s restaurant-style salsa religiously for the past few years and it’s always a huge hit. When I saw this recipe though, I knew I had to try it. I’m so glad I did. It is so, SO good. I think this is going to be my new go-to salsa!
Jen says
Awesome Megan, I am so happy you loved it and so flattered it might even become your new go-to! Yay! thanks for letting me know! ๐
Jenn says
I love this recipe! Along side of the salsa I smash up an avocado and add a couple of spoonfuls of salsa to it for the perfect guacamole, YUM!
Jen says
Mmmmm! I am going to have to try your guacamole idea – sounds divine! Thanks Jenn, I’m so happy you love this salsa recipe!
Cyndi says
This is hands down the best salsa EVER. Made it tonight for chicken Baja bowls and my husband was like OMG this is so good I could drink it. Will never buy store bought again. Thanks for sharing your recipe.
Jen says
Wahoo! thanks so much Cyndi! I’m honored this salsa is “drinkable” delicious :)!
Denise MacIsaac says
This is perfect! I used Rotel Fire Roasted with Green Chilies and drained most of the liquid! So easy, I will not buy jarred salsa anymore! I am making it to go on the Carne Asada Street Tacos tonight.
It seems that every time I make a recipe from this Carlsbad Cravings website, it is a 5* recipe and people always ask for the recipe!
You are, by far, my favorite out there and get filed under my FAVORITES board on Pinterest!
THANK YOU
Jen says
Thank you for your awesome comment Denise, you made my day, my week! xo I’m so happy you loved this homemade salsa recipe and honored my recipes are earning 5 stars in your kitchen!
Jennifer says
Here in Asia they don’t really sell cans of fire roasted tomatoes. So I roasted mine in the oven. My goodness, I think this is the best salsa I’ve made. All this time and all I had to was roast the tomatoes for 20 mins for restaurant style salsa. Ahhhh so delicious
Jen says
Yay! I’m thrilled this was the best salsa you’ve made and you are brilliant for roasting your own tomatoes – I’m so happy it paid off!
Diana says
Easy and perfect. I used it for huevo’s rancheros
Jen says
Yum! So happy you enjoyed it!
Claire H. says
Very easy to make and delicious.thanks for sharing
Jen says
You’re so welcome!
Katherine says
I love all of the recipes that I have tried on your website and I can’t wait to try this salsa recipe! Quick question…would this salsa be good for canning? I made a canning salsa recipe about 6-7 years ago and I have never been able tp replicate it….I’m hopeful this will be close. Thoughts?
Jen says
Thank you so much for making my recipes Katherine! I assume this recipe would be fantastic for canning, but unfortunately, I am not experienced at it and can’t give you any details – sorry!
Rebecca Jenner says
A few weeks ago was my first try at making your fire-roasted tomato salsa. This salsa is SO SO SO easy and delicious!!!! I am making it again this week for chicken taquitos. I love the idea to double the batch and freeze a jar. Thank you for the great recipes!
Jen says
Thank you so much, Rebecca, I am so happy this salsa is a winner – YAY! I am thrilled you are enjoying my recipes!
Suzie T says
I over blended my salsa, but that is fine. Problem is that my salsa is too spicy for me and seems to be missing something. What can I do to lower the heat of the salsa? Could I add sugar?
Jen says
Yes, to tame the spice, add more lime and sugar to taste. Hope this helps!
ann says
I live in San Diego (like you), and have tasted wonderful salsas. Everyone should make this. No one will be disappointed! The second time I accidentally forgot the garlic, and it still had depth and was flavorful. Thank you!
Jen says
We definitely have great salsas here in San Diego – so WOW! What a kind compliment! I’m so glad you loved it!