Tomatillo Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomatillo Salsa, also known as “Salsa Verde,” is a vibrant, tangy, and slightly spicy condiment that’s a staple in Mexican cuisine. Made with fresh tomatillos, chiles, and aromatic ingredients, it’s perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or simply served with chips. Its bright green color and zesty flavor make it a refreshing and versatile salsa you’ll reach for again and again.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh tomatillos
white onion
garlic cloves
jalapeño or serrano peppers
fresh cilantro
lime juice
salt
water or chicken broth (optional for thinning)

directions

Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse them thoroughly to remove the sticky residue.

Place tomatillos, chiles, onion, and garlic in a saucepan and cover with water.

Bring to a boil and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the tomatillos are soft and pale green.

Drain the vegetables and transfer them to a blender or food processor.

Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salt.

Blend until smooth. Add a bit of water or chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Let the salsa cool before serving, or refrigerate for later use.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of salsa.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Blending and cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add avocado for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Roast the tomatillos, garlic, and peppers for a smoky twist.
Use different chiles like poblano or habanero for varied heat levels.
Add a pinch of cumin for a warm, earthy note.

storage/reheating

Store Tomatillo Salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, or serve cold as desired.

FAQs

What are tomatillos?

Tomatillos are small green fruits with a papery husk, related to tomatoes but with a tart flavor.

Do I need to cook the tomatillos?

Yes, cooking them helps mellow their acidity and blend the flavors.

Can I use raw tomatillos?

You can, but the salsa will be much tangier and sharper in flavor.

Is this salsa spicy?

It depends on the type and quantity of chiles used. Adjust to your taste.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

How do I make it milder?

Use fewer or milder chiles like Anaheim or remove the seeds before blending.

Can I can this salsa?

Yes, with proper sterilization and canning techniques, it can be preserved.

Can I serve this warm?

Absolutely, it’s delicious either warm or cold.

What dishes go best with Tomatillo Salsa?

It pairs wonderfully with tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or as a dip for chips.

Do I need lime juice?

Lime juice enhances the flavor and adds freshness, but can be omitted or replaced with vinegar.

Conclusion

Tomatillo Salsa brings a zesty, fresh brightness to any meal, making it a must-have in your homemade salsa collection. Whether spooned over tacos, served with chips, or drizzled on grilled meats, its bold flavor and vibrant color will elevate your dishes with authentic Mexican flair.

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