Death Row Salsa
A fiery, flavorful salsa with ripe tomatoes, jalapenos, and spices, perfect for parties, snacks, or adding a spicy kick to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large, ripe tomatoes, chopped with juices ⓘ
- 1 yellow onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- garlic powder to taste ⓘ
- fresh, diced jalapenos or crushed dried chilies ⓘ
- 1 to 2 Tbsp. fresh cilantro, chopped ⓘ
- oregano and salt (optional and/or to taste) ⓘ
- 1 tsp. Louisiana hot sauce (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Add all ingredients in a bowl, mixing well.
- Chill and serve. This is best if used the same day.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding more jalapenos or using crushed dried chilies if fresh ones aren't available. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the salsa briefly in a food processor. Adjust the garlic powder to your taste, and try using smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a unique flavor twist. This salsa is reminiscent of Fresh Salsa Dip, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salsa pairs beautifully with Low-Fat Homemade Tortilla Chips for a crunchy snack or as a topping for grilled meats and fish. It also complements Mexican recipes like tacos or burritos. For a refreshing drink, serve alongside Marguaritas to elevate your meal experience. Offer it as a side with your favorite appetizers at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, consume the salsa within this timeframe, as it tastes best when fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing. Serve chilled straight from the fridge for an invigorating flavor boost.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Death Row Salsa contains roughly 242 calories, with 8g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (114% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 675mg per serving (29% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salsa a few hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld. However, it's best enjoyed the same day for optimal freshness. If making it the night before, store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I substitute for fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, you can use canned tomatoes, preferably diced or crushed, with their juices. Adjust the amount of tomato sauce accordingly to ensure the salsa retains its desired consistency. Just keep in mind that using canned tomatoes may alter the fresh taste slightly.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To modify the spice level, start by adding a small amount of jalapenos or crushed chilies and gradually increase to your preference. Additionally, using milder varieties of peppers or omitting the Louisiana hot sauce can help tone down the heat for a milder salsa.
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).