Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsTomasita'sSalsa Recipe

Salsa Recipe

Inspired by Tomasita's
Time20m
Serves6

Make Salsa Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Fresh Tomato Salsa (Pico de Gallo)

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde (optional mix-in)

Method

Fresh Tomato Salsa (Pico de Gallo)

  1. 1

    Prepare tomatoes

    Core and dice the ripe tomatoes into roughly 1/4-inch pieces. If tomatoes are very juicy, scoop out some seeds and excess juice to prevent a watery salsa.

  2. 2

    Chop onion and pepper

    Finely dice the white onion to match the tomato size (about 1/4-inch). Halve the jalapeño, remove seeds for milder heat (or keep for more), then finely mince.

  3. 3

    Combine ingredients

    In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced onion, and minced jalapeño.

  4. 4

    Add cilantro and seasoning

    Roughly chop the cilantro and add 1/2 cup to the bowl. Pour in 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional).

  5. 5

    Taste and adjust

    Stir well and taste. Adjust salt, lime, or jalapeño heat as desired. Let sit at room temperature for 10–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

  6. 6

    Serve

    Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde (optional mix-in)

  1. 7

    Roast tomatillos and peppers

    Preheat broiler or a hot skillet. Halve tomatillos and place cut side up on a sheet; broil or roast for 5–7 minutes until charred in spots. Roast the serrano (or char in skillet) until blistered.

  2. 8

    Blend

    In a blender or food processor add roasted tomatillos, blistered serrano (stem removed), 2 garlic cloves, 1/4 cup cilantro, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Pulse until you reach a slightly chunky to smooth consistency, about 6–10 pulses (or longer for smooth).

  3. 9

    Cool and mix

    Taste and adjust salt or lime. Let cool, then either serve separately as salsa verde or fold 1/3 to 1/2 cup into the fresh tomato salsa to create a hybrid salsa with bright tang and charred flavor.

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