Salsa verde is a vibrant and zesty sauce originating from Mexican cuisine. Made with tomatillos, cilantro, and other fresh ingredients, it’s perfect as a dip for chips, a topping for tacos, or a sauce for enchiladas. Its tangy flavor and refreshing taste make it an essential condiment in any Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients (Makes about 2 cups):
- 500 g (1 lb) fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1-2 jalapeño or serrano peppers (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for added richness)
Steps to Prepare:
1. Prepare the Tomatillos:
- Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse them well to remove the sticky residue.
- Cut the tomatillos in half.
2. Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat a skillet, grill, or broiler over medium heat.
- Place the tomatillos, onion, garlic, and peppers in the skillet or on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tomatillos soften and develop a slight char on their skin. This enhances the flavor of the salsa.
3. Blend the Ingredients:
- Transfer the roasted tomatillos, onion, garlic, and peppers to a blender or food processor.
- Add the cilantro, lime juice, salt, and cumin (if using).
- Blend until smooth for a creamy salsa or pulse for a chunkier texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice as needed.
4. Optional Step – Sauté the Salsa:
- For a deeper flavor, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Pour the blended salsa into the pan and simmer for 5-7 minutes. This helps develop the flavors and gives the salsa a slightly thicker consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Dip: Serve with tortilla chips for a quick appetizer.
- For Tacos and Burritos: Use it as a fresh topping for your favorite tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
- Enchiladas: Pour it over enchiladas before baking for a tangy and flavorful twist.
- Grilled Meats: Drizzle over grilled chicken, pork, or fish for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Salsa Verde:
- Adjust the Heat: For a milder salsa, use only one pepper and remove the seeds. For extra heat, leave the seeds and add more peppers.
- Storage: Store salsa verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatillos and cilantro are key to achieving the bright, tangy flavor of authentic salsa verde.
This salsa verde recipe is a quick and easy way to bring bold, authentic flavors to your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a simple family meal, this versatile sauce is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
