Name: Best Homemade Salsa Ever
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 can (28 ounce) whole tomatoes with juice; 2 cans (10 ounce) Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies); 1/4 cup chopped onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 whole jalapeño, quartered and sliced thin; 1/4 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt

This homemade salsa is the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The tangy tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, and seasonings come together to create a salsa that is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it with chips, tacos, or as a topping for your favorite dishes, this salsa is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love making this salsa because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and brings so much flavor to the table. The mix of tangy tomatoes and the kick of jalapeños makes every bite a flavorful experience. It’s one of those recipes that can be adapted to suit your personal taste, whether you prefer a chunky salsa or a smooth one. The best part? It’s made from ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it super convenient whenever you want a quick, fresh snack or topping.

Ingredients

1 can (28 ounce) whole tomatoes with juice

2 cans (10 ounce) Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1 whole jalapeño, quartered and sliced thin

1/4 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

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

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor.

Pulse until the salsa reaches your desired texture—chunky or smooth.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or sugar if needed.

Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)

Servings: 6 servings

Variations

I love experimenting with variations of this salsa! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and flavor. Just chop a handful and mix it into the salsa after blending.

Spicy Salsa: If you like your salsa with an extra kick, feel free to add more jalapeños or even a bit of cayenne pepper.

Smoky Flavor: For a smoky twist, try adding some smoked paprika or roasting the tomatoes and garlic before blending.

Fruit Salsa: I sometimes swap out a portion of the tomatoes for fruits like mango or pineapple to add a sweet contrast to the heat.

Storage/Reheating

I like to store my salsa in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, making it the perfect make-ahead snack. Since the flavors continue to meld over time, it actually tastes even better the next day! I recommend not freezing it, as the texture can change when it thaws.

If I want to serve it warm, I just gently heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. I prefer serving it chilled, but it can definitely be enjoyed at room temperature or warm.

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Crock Pot Salsa Ranch Chicken Pasta

FAQs

How can I make this salsa spicier?

If I want to make it spicier, I add more jalapeños or use a hotter variety like serrano peppers. For an extra punch, I sometimes toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Can I make this salsa in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a few hours in advance, or even the day before, to let the flavors meld together for even better taste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but I find the canned tomatoes give the salsa a more consistent texture. If I do use fresh, I make sure to peel and seed them before blending.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the salsa?

If the salsa is too tart for my liking, I simply add a little more sugar to balance the flavors. Start with a pinch more and taste test until it’s just right.

What can I serve this salsa with?

I love serving this salsa with tortilla chips, but it also pairs great with tacos, grilled meats, quesadillas, or as a topping for nachos. It’s versatile enough to be used in almost any dish that could use a burst of flavor.

Conclusion

This Best Homemade Salsa Ever is the perfect blend of fresh ingredients, tangy tomatoes, and just the right amount of heat. I love how easy it is to prepare, and with a little bit of chilling time, it becomes a flavorful addition to any meal or snack. Whether I’m making it for a party, a family dinner, or just to snack on during the week, this salsa never disappoints. It’s one of those recipes that everyone loves, and it’s so simple to make.

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