Introduction
This delicious roasted salsa recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that will elevate your meals and snacks. Using fresh Roma tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, and aromatic spices, this salsa is easy to make and will please any crowd. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite dishes, this salsa is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 Roma tomatoes
– 1/2 small onion
– 2 jalapeño peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 2 cloves garlic
– Juice of 1/2 lime
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
Approximately 2 cups of salsa
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large sheet pan, spread out the Roma tomatoes, half of a small onion, and two jalapeño peppers. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the vegetables are blistered. Then, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are charred.
4. Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onion, jalapeño peppers, and any juices from the sheet pan to a food processor. Add 2 cloves of garlic and the juice of half a lime.
5. Blend the mixture until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro and pulse a few times until incorporated.
6. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
7. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
On a large sheet pan, spread out the Roma tomatoes, half of a small onion, and two jalapeño peppers. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until they are blistered. Then, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are charred.
Step 4: Transfer to Food Processor
Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onion, jalapeño peppers, and any juices from the sheet pan to a food processor. Add 2 cloves of garlic and the juice of half a lime.
Step 5: Blend the Mixture
Blend the mixture until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro and pulse a few times until incorporated.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Notes
Tip 1: Tomato Ripeness
Use ripe Roma tomatoes for optimal flavor and texture in the salsa.
Tip 2: Spice Level
Adjust the number of jalapeño peppers based on your preferred spice level.
Tip 3: Fresh Cilantro Substitution
If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a different flavor profile.
Tip 4: Storage
Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook Techniques
Roasting
Roasting vegetables at high heat enhances their natural flavors and creates a delicious caramelization. In this recipe, the Roma tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño peppers are roasted at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before being broiled to achieve a charred finish.
Blending
After roasting, the vegetables are transferred to a food processor. Blending them creates a smooth salsa, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adding garlic and lime juice boosts the freshness of the salsa.
Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the salsa once it is blended. Adjusting the seasoning with salt, pepper, or lime juice ensures the flavor profile is to your liking. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced taste.
FAQ
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute Roma tomatoes with other types like vine-ripened or cherry tomatoes, but adjust the roasting time as necessary for different moisture levels.
Is this salsa spicy?
The spiciness of the salsa depends on the jalapeño peppers used. For a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds and membranes of the jalapeños or use fewer peppers.
How long can I store the salsa?
You can store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I freeze the salsa?
Yes, you can freeze the salsa. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
What can I serve this salsa with?
This salsa is versatile and can be served with tortilla chips, on tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for nachos, burritos, and more.
Conclusion
The roasted salsa made with Roma tomatoes, onions, jalapeño peppers, and fresh cilantro offers a vibrant and flavorful addition to any dish. Its blend of spices, garlic, and lime juice creates a perfect balance that elevates the simplest of meals. Enjoy it with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or incorporated into your favorite recipes for a delightful burst of flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Serve grilled chicken wrapped in warm tortillas topped with the roasted salsa for a delicious meal.
Vegetable Quesadillas
Spread the salsa inside quesadillas with cheese and assorted vegetables before grilling for a melty, savory treat.
Chili Con Carne
Add the roasted salsa to a pot of simmering chili for an extra depth of flavor and heat.
Pasta Salad
Mix the roasted salsa into a simple pasta salad for a fresh and zesty side dish.
Eggs for Breakfast
Top scrambled eggs or an omelet with the roasted salsa for a flavorful breakfast option.
Soups
Use the roasted salsa as a base for soups, adding beans and additional vegetables for a hearty meal.
