Tired of the same old salsa? Craving a vibrant, flavorful explosion in your mouth? Then look no further! This salsa recipe with banana peppers delivers a delightful kick that’ll elevate your next taco night, chip dip, or even grilled chicken marinade. It’s easy to make, bursting with fresh ingredients, and perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe makes approximately 2 cups of salsa. Feel free to double or halve it depending on your needs.
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup banana peppers, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: A Simple Dance of Flavors
This delicious salsa comes together in a flash! Follow these easy steps:
- Prep the Veggies: Start by dicing your tomatoes and finely chopping the banana peppers, red onion, and jalapeño (if using). Make sure to remove the seeds from the jalapeño if you prefer less heat. Finely chop the cilantro as well.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced tomatoes, chopped banana peppers, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.
- Season to Perfection: Add the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and garlic powder to the bowl. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more lime juice or spice!
- Mix and Chill: Gently toss everything together until well combined. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing a truly delicious salsa.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, your vibrant salsa is ready to be devoured! Serve with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, burritos, grilled fish, chicken or even eggs.
Tips for Salsa Success:
- Fresh Ingredients are Key: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in the taste of your salsa.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño and banana peppers. For extra heat, leave the seeds in or add a serrano pepper.
- Customize your Salsa: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients! Add diced mango, pineapple, or corn for a sweeter salsa. You can also substitute different herbs like parsley or oregano for the cilantro.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Fat: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 7-8g
- Protein: 1-2g
This easy salsa recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and refreshing way to add flavor and zest to any meal. Enjoy!