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How to Make Traditional Mexican Jalapeño Salsa

  • Writer: Loida Tamayo
    Loida Tamayo
  • 1 day ago
  • 2 min read

There’s nothing like a fresh, homemade Mexican salsa to bring your tacos, chips, or burritos to life. This jalapeño-based salsa is a classic in my kitchen and one of my family’s favorites. It’s vibrant, full of flavor, and rich in antioxidants—plus, you can easily adjust the heat depending on your spice tolerance.


Did you know? Salsa isn't just delicious—it’s also packed with antioxidants! Ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, jalapeños, and cilantro are rich in vitamins A and C and contain natural compounds that help fight inflammation and support heart health. So yes, your salsa habit is doing your body a favor!


Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true family recipe for this salsa, tested (and tasted!) many times to make sure it’s just right. Whether you like it mild or fiery, this recipe will help you make the perfect batch at home.


📌 Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06QJXlfpbFo


For today’s recipe, you will need:

Ingredients

  • 5 Roma or plum tomatoes

  • 4 jalapeños (devein and deseed 2 for medium heat, or leave all intact for full spice)

  • ½ white onion

  • 2 cloves of garlic

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro

  • 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon oil (optional, for texture)

You’ll also need a blender or food processor. 


Ready to make it? Grab your ingredients and head to the kitchen—your salsa adventure awaits!

Jalapeño Peppers
Jalapeño Peppers

Instructions


Step 1: Boil the Ingredients

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, and garlic. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes, or just until the tomato skins start to burst. This helps soften the vegetables and brings out their natural flavors.


Quick Tip: Make sure you have a window open or the vent on—jalapeños (and other spicy peppers) release steam that can pack a punch!


Step 2: Blend It Up

Once the veggies are cooked, transfer them to a food processor or blender. Add the cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend until you reach your desired texture—smooth or slightly chunky. Add 1 tablespoon of oil for a velvety consistency.


Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Always taste your salsa before calling it done. Need more heat? Add another jalapeño or leave more seeds in next time. Too spicy? Add a cooked tomato or more cilantro to mellow it out.


Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it tastes just right, pour your salsa into a bowl and serve with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or even eggs. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.


Make It Yours

This salsa is incredibly versatile. Swap the jalapeños for serranos if you prefer more heat, or add a boiled tomatillo for a tangy twist. The best part? You control the spice level and flavor.



Serrano Peppers
Serrano Peppers

Final Thoughts

Making salsa from scratch is easier than you think—and once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought. It’s fresh, flavorful, and full of that authentic Mexican goodness I grew up with.


If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! And don’t forget to check out my video on YouTube for a step-by-step walkthrough.


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