Name: Best Homemade Salsa Ever
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 (28 oz) can whole tomatoes with juice; 2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel); 1/4 cup chopped onion; 1 to 2 jalapeños, seeded if desired; 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt to taste

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I love how this homemade salsa comes together with simple pantry staples and delivers bold, classic Mexican-inspired flavor. I make it when I want something fresh, zesty, and perfect for dipping, topping, or even spooning straight onto tacos. It tastes like something I would proudly serve at a family gathering, yet it takes very little effort to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it is quick, reliable, and packed with flavor. I can make it year-round since it uses canned tomatoes, and I can easily adjust the heat and texture to match my mood. I also enjoy how versatile it is, whether I am serving it with chips, using it as a taco topping, or adding it to grilled meats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (28 oz) can whole tomatoes with juice
2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 to 2 jalapeños, seeded if desired
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt to taste

Directions

I start by adding the whole tomatoes and their juice to a blender or food processor. I then add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped onion, jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and cumin. I pulse everything until I reach my preferred consistency, sometimes leaving it a little chunky for texture. I taste the salsa and add salt as needed, then blend once more briefly. After that, I pour it into a bowl and let it chill so the flavors can come together.

Servings And Timing

I usually get about 8 servings from this recipe. It takes me around 10 minutes to prepare, with no cooking required. I like to let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Variations

I sometimes use fresh tomatoes when they are in season for a brighter taste. I also like adding roasted garlic for a deeper, smoky flavor or swapping jalapeños for serrano peppers when I want more heat. If I am craving a smoky salsa, I add a bit of chipotle in adobo.

Storage/Reheating

I store this salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I always stir it before serving since some liquid may separate. I never reheat it, as I prefer it chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I Make This Salsa Spicier?

I make it spicier by adding extra jalapeños or including the seeds.

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Canned?

I use fresh tomatoes when they are ripe, but I usually blanch and peel them first for a smoother texture.

Is This Salsa Freezer-Friendly?

I do not recommend freezing it, as the texture changes once thawed.

How Do I Make The Salsa Thicker?

I pulse it less in the blender or drain a bit of the tomato juice before blending.

Does The Flavor Improve Over Time?

I find that the salsa tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to this homemade salsa because it is easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. I enjoy how customizable it is and how it instantly elevates any meal or snack. This is one of those recipes I always like to have on hand.