Zesty Key Lime Salsa Delight
Experience the vibrant flavors of the tropics with this Zesty Key Lime Salsa Delight! Inspired by a secret recipe from a charming Key West restaurant, this salsa is a tangy and refreshing twist on traditional dips. With the added kick of fresh garlic and the perfect balance of sweet and savory, it’s an irresistible accompaniment to any meal or just a delightful snack on its own. Brighten up your summer gatherings or elevate your taco nights with this delicious and versatile salsa - who needs chips when you have flavor like this!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ripe tomatoes
4 medium (seeded and diced)
Fresh jalapeno pepper
1 (seeded and minced)
Fresh cilantro leaves
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Red onion
1 medium (minced)
Fresh garlic
1-2 cloves (minced)
Granulated sugar
2 teaspoons
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Key limes
2 (juice of (or 4-5 tablespoons key lime juice))
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized glass bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced jalapeno pepper, chopped cilantro, minced red onion, and minced garlic.
2
Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.
3
Squeeze the juice of the key limes (or add key lime juice) into the mixture and stir until incorporated.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and allow the salsa to chill in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5
Once ready, give the salsa a good stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled, and enjoy with fresh tortilla chips, grilled seafood, or as a vibrant topping for tacos.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Key Lime Salsa Delight?
It is a tangy and refreshing tropical salsa inspired by a secret recipe from a restaurant in Key West.
What are the main ingredients in this salsa?
The main ingredients include ripe tomatoes, jalapeno, cilantro, red onion, garlic, sugar, and key limes.
How many tomatoes do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 medium-sized ripe tomatoes.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
The tomatoes should be seeded and diced before being added to the mixture.
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, while key limes offer a unique tartness, regular limes can be used as a substitute if key limes are unavailable.
How much key lime juice is required if I don't have fresh fruit?
You can use 4 to 5 tablespoons of bottled key lime juice.
Is this Key Lime Salsa spicy?
It has a mild to moderate kick due to the inclusion of one minced jalapeno pepper.
How can I make the salsa less spicy?
To reduce the heat, ensure you remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeno before mincing.
How long does this salsa need to chill?
The salsa should be chilled in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours.
Why is the chilling period necessary?
Chilling allows the various flavors to meld together beautifully for a more cohesive taste.
Is this salsa recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian.
Is Zesty Key Lime Salsa Delight vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
What type of onion is used in this salsa?
The recipe specifies using one medium red onion, minced.
How much garlic should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced.
Why is sugar added to the salsa?
Two teaspoons of granulated sugar are added to provide a perfect balance between the sweet and savory flavors.
What are the best items to serve with this salsa?
It pairs perfectly with fresh tortilla chips, grilled seafood, or as a topping for tacos.
Can I use this salsa as a seafood topping?
Absolutely, its zesty profile makes it a vibrant and delicious topping for grilled fish or shrimp.
What kind of bowl should I use for mixing?
A medium-sized glass bowl is recommended for combining the ingredients.
How much cilantro is needed?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro leaves.
Can I substitute the red onion?
While red onion is preferred for its color and sharp flavor, you can use white or yellow onion if needed.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a fresh, vegetable-based dip that is low in fat and high in flavor.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for this recipe to maintain the vibrant, tropical flavor profile.
Is this salsa gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other fruits to this salsa?
Yes, adding diced mango or pineapple would complement the key lime and create an even more tropical variation.
How long will this salsa stay fresh in the fridge?
It is best when eaten within 2 to 3 days of preparation, as the tomatoes will eventually soften.
Can I freeze this salsa for later use?
Freezing is not recommended because it will significantly change the texture of the fresh vegetables.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
No, the recipe only requires the tomatoes to be seeded and diced.
What seasonings are used besides salt?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper along with the salt and sugar.
Is this a good alternative to guacamole?
Yes, it is a light and refreshing alternative for those looking for something different than traditional avocado dips.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe uses 4 medium tomatoes and 1 onion, making it a perfect appetizer size for a small gathering or family meal.