Chunky Salsa
A vibrant, chunky salsa packed with fresh tomatoes, peppers, and onions, perfect for snacking, dipping, or adding a zesty kick to your meals. Suitable for casual gatherings and party platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain tomatoes; save the juice.
- Put tomatoes and jalapenos in a food processor.
- Add tomato juice gradually to achieve desired moisture and consistency.
- Sauté onions, celery, and peppers in olive oil until tender, but do not overcook.
- Let the mixture cool.
- Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Pour the salsa into jars and seal.
- Makes about 4 to 5 quarts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider roasting the jalapenos before adding them to the salsa. If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of jalapenos or substitute them with mild green chiles. For a sweeter taste, adjust the sugar to your liking. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the salsa's flavor profile. This recipe can easily be adjusted for different tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chunky salsa as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats and tacos. It pairs beautifully with Carne Guisada for a hearty meal or can be used in conjunction with other Mexican recipes like Black Bean And Corn Salsa for a vibrant appetizer spread. It can also be enjoyed with grilled vegetables for a fresh side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider canning the salsa using the proper techniques to ensure safety and longevity. When ready to serve, simply give it a good stir. If it thickens too much, add a splash of reserved tomato juice to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chunky Salsa contains roughly 255 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 462mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salsa tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will last for about a week, so it's perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I do if my salsa is too spicy?
If your salsa turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding more sugar or incorporating chopped tomatoes to dilute the spiciness. Mixing in some diced avocado can also help tone down the heat while adding creaminess.
Is it possible to can this salsa?
Yes, you can can this salsa following safe canning practices. Make sure to process it in a water bath canner for the recommended time to preserve it properly. Refer to trusted canning resources for specific guidelines on acidity and processing times.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).