Salsa verde, or green sauce, is a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for its vibrant flavor and versatility. This fresh and zesty sauce is made from tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeños, offering a perfect balance of tanginess and heat. Whether you use it as a dip, a topping, or a marinade, salsa verde is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that brings a taste of Mexico right to your home!
Ingredients
– 10 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
– 1 jalapeño, stemmed and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup onion, diced
Servings and Cooking Time
This salsa verde recipe yields approximately 2 cups, serving about 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (2 tablespoons):
– Calories: 25
– Total Fat: 0g
– Sodium: 110mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 5g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 1g
– Protein: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by husking the tomatillos and rinsing them under cold water.
2. Cut the tomatillos in half and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Broil the tomatillos for about 5 minutes until they are charred.
4. In a blender, combine the charred tomatillos and jalapeño.
5. Add the chopped cilantro and minced garlic to the blender.
6. Squeeze in the lime juice and add salt and pepper.
7. Blend the mixture until smooth, adjusting consistency with water if needed.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Transfer the salsa verde to a bowl and stir in the diced onion.
10. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want a milder salsa, consider using poblano peppers instead of jalapeños. You can also substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different citrus note. Fresh parsley can replace cilantro if you’re not a fan of its flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Salsa verde pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as a dip for tortilla chips. It’s also delicious drizzled over enchiladas or used as a marinade for chicken and fish.
Storage and Reheating
Store salsa verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheating is not necessary as it’s best enjoyed cold.
Cooking Mistakes
- Over-blending can make the salsa too watery; blend just until combined.
- Using unripe tomatillos can result in a sour taste; ensure they are ripe.
- Not adjusting seasoning can lead to blandness; always taste before serving.
- Skipping the broiling step misses out on the smoky flavor.
- Using too much jalapeño can overpower the sauce; start with less if unsure.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Taste and adjust the spiciness to your preference.
- Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes to develop flavors.
- For a chunkier texture, pulse the ingredients instead of blending smoothly.
FAQs
What can I use salsa verde for?
Salsa verde is versatile; you can use it as a dip, a marinade, or a topping for various dishes like tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.
How long does salsa verde last in the fridge?
Homemade salsa verde can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze salsa verde?
Yes, salsa verde can be frozen. Store it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for several months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Is salsa verde spicy?
The spiciness of salsa verde depends on the type and amount of peppers used. You can adjust the heat by using fewer jalapeños or substituting with milder peppers.
Can I make salsa verde without tomatillos?
While tomatillos are traditional, you can substitute them with green tomatoes, but the flavor will be different. Fresh green tomatoes will give a similar tangy taste.
Conclusion
Salsa verde is a refreshing and zesty addition to any meal, bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it not only enhances your dishes but also adds a touch of authenticity to your culinary creations. Enjoy this delightful sauce as a dip, topping, or marinade, and savor the taste of Mexico in your own kitchen!
Salsa Verde
Ingredients
- 10 tomatillos husked and rinsed
- 1 jalapeño stemmed and chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup onion diced
Instructions
- Husk and rinse the tomatillos, then cut them in half.
- Place the tomatillos on a baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes until charred.
- In a blender, combine the charred tomatillos and chopped jalapeño.
- Add the chopped cilantro and minced garlic to the blender.
- Squeeze in the lime juice and add salt and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with water if necessary.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer to a bowl and stir in the diced onion.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
