Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them into medium-sized dice and place them in a large mixing bowl. The tomatoes provide the base for your salsa, contributing both flavor and texture.
Chop the Red Onion:
Finely chop one large red onion and add it to the bowl with the diced tomatoes. The red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Mince the Jalapeños:
Mince the jalapeño peppers finely. If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds before mincing. For extra heat, leave the seeds in. Add the minced jalapeños to the bowl with the tomatoes and onions.
Step 2: Add Fresh Cilantro
Chop the Cilantro:
Finely chop one cup of fresh cilantro. Sprinkle it over the chopped ingredients in the bowl. Cilantro adds a distinctive, herbaceous flavor that is essential to traditional salsa.
Step 3: Add Lime Juice and Season
Juice the Limes:
Squeeze the juice of two limes over the mixture in the bowl. The lime juice adds a refreshing citrusy tang that brightens the flavors of the salsa.
Season with Salt:
Season the salsa with salt to taste. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Salt enhances the flavors of the fresh ingredients.
Optional Garlic:
If desired, add minced garlic to the salsa for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic adds a subtle depth and a bit of pungency that complements the other ingredients.
Step 4: Mix and Serve
Combine the Ingredients:
Gently mix all the ingredients in the bowl until they are well combined. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes; you want to keep the texture chunky.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, lime juice, or jalapeños according to your preference.
Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, let the salsa sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it chilled with your favorite tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or salads.
