Tired of boring salad dressings? Craving a vibrant, fresh flavor that will liven up your lunch or dinner? Then look no further! This homemade salsa salad dressing recipe is the perfect solution. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and a healthy alternative to creamy, store-bought dressings. Get ready to elevate your salads to a whole new level of deliciousness! This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced (Roma or cherry tomatoes work great)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and garlic powder.
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Mix Well: Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle generously over your favorite salad. This salsa salad dressing is equally delicious on chicken, fish, or even as a dip for tortilla chips!
Tips for the Best Salsa Salad Dressing:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh ingredients will make a significant difference in the flavor of your dressing. The brighter the tomatoes and cilantro, the tastier the dressing will be.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the heat. If you prefer a milder dressing, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before mincing. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Mango Salsa Dressing: Add 1/2 cup diced mango for a sweet and savory twist.
- Avocado Salsa Dressing: Blend in 1/4 of an avocado for a creamy texture and richer flavor.
- Corn Salsa Dressing: Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked corn kernels for added sweetness and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Fat: Approximately 7-9g
- Protein: Approximately 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This easy recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This delicious dish is a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It's one of the best recipes for a flavorful and refreshing salad dressing that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!