Restaurant-style salsa recipe with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice. Smooth or chunky, this homemade salsa is perfect for tacos, chips, burritos, and grilled meats. Refrigerate for enhanced flavor and use as a versatile, flavorful condiment.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

28 oz (800 g) can whole peeled tomatoes, undrained
½ red or white onion, roughly chopped
1 handful fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped (leave seeds for extra heat)
1 tsp salt
Juice of ½ lime
1 tsp sugar (optional, omit if canned tomatoes already contain sugar)

Directions

Combine whole tomatoes (with juice), chopped onion, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, and salt in a food processor.
Add lime juice and sugar if needed.
Pulse until you reach the desired consistency, smooth or slightly chunky.
Taste and adjust with additional lime juice or salt as needed.
Refrigerate for several hours or overnight for best flavor before serving.

Tips

Use fresh cilantro for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
Leaving jalapeño seeds increases spiciness—adjust to your preference.
Pulse gently for chunky salsa or longer for a smoother texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Tomato Options: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Heat Level: Substitute serrano peppers for more heat or remove all seeds for milder salsa.
Additional Flavor: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for depth.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
A: Yes, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Overnight refrigeration enhances the flavors.

Q: Can I freeze this salsa?
A: Yes, store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, use ripe tomatoes and simmer briefly to concentrate flavors if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tortilla chips as a classic appetizer.
Top tacos, burritos, or grilled meats for added flavor.
Mix into rice or bean dishes for a fresh, zesty kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This restaurant-style salsa is fresh, vibrant, and easy to make. The balance of tomatoes, cilantro, lime, and jalapeño creates a flavorful, versatile salsa perfect for snacking, cooking, or entertaining.