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Best Homemade Salsa Ever

This bright, cozy homemade salsa is quick and easy, made with simple pantry ingredients that deliver a fresh and lively flavor perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes with juice Use good-quality canned tomatoes for the sweetest flavor.
  • 2 cans (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) Adds a little heat and texture.
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion White or yellow works; crisp and slightly sharp is preferred.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost.
  • 1 whole jalapeño, quartered and thinly sliced Remove seeds for milder heat.
  • 1/4 tsp sugar Balances the acidity.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Start light and add more to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin Provides a warm, earthy note.
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro Use more to taste.
  • 1/2 lime Juice of Brightens everything and ties the flavors together.
  • Extra cilantro for garnish Optional.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Open the cans and dump the whole tomatoes, Rotel, and their juices into the blender or food processor.
  2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and quartered jalapeño.
  3. Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and ground cumin.
  4. Squeeze in the juice of half a lime and add the cilantro.
  5. Pulse 10–15 times until the salsa reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Taste with a tortilla chip and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serving Ideas
  1. Serve cool with chips, or spoon over tacos and grilled meats.
  2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime slices.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; flavors keep improving on day two. Don’t freeze if you want to keep texture; instead, use leftovers in cooked dishes like casseroles or chili. If you want to be creative, try leaving a few larger tomato chunks or adding roasted red pepper or smoky chipotle sauce.