Name: Salsa Picante Roja Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 medium tomatoes; 1 Jalapeno; 4 small garlic cloves; 2 tbsp cilantro; 4 tbsp water; 1 tsp olive oil; salt

Nothing beats the fiery flavor of a homemade red hot salsa picante. Bursting with the vibrant taste of tomatoes, the heat of jalapeno, and the fragrant aroma of garlic and cilantro, this salsa picante recipe is more than just a dip. It's a flavor explosion, perfect for spicing up your favorite Mexican dishes or simply serving with tortilla chips.

Photos of Salsa Picante Roja Recipe

While most of these ingredients are common in households, jalapeno might not be a regular in your kitchen. Known for its spicy kick, this green chili pepper is a staple in Mexican cuisine. When shopping for jalapeno, pick firm ones with a bright green color. Beware, the heat lies in the seeds and the white membrane inside the pepper.

Ingredients for Red Hot Salsa Picante

Tomatoes: The base for the salsa. Choose ripe ones for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Jalapeno: Adds the heat to the salsa. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness.

Garlic cloves: Gives a pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens considerably with cooking.

Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Water: Thins the salsa to your desired consistency.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the salsa, adding a depth of flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

One reader, Janeczka Kaminski says:

This red hot salsa picante recipe is a game-changer! The blend of fresh tomatoes, fiery jalapeños, and zesty garlic creates an explosion of flavor. It's the perfect balance of heat and tanginess. I can't get enough of it - it's a must-try for all salsa lovers!

Janeczka Kaminski

Techniques Required for Making Red Hot Salsa Picante

How to blend the salsa: Combine the tomatoes, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, and water in a blender and pulse until smooth.

How to simmer the salsa: Heat oil in a deep skillet, then pour in the blended salsa. Season with salt and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How to serve the salsa: Serve the red hot salsa picante with chips and enjoy!

How To Make Salsa Picante Roja

Our Salsa Picante Roja is a simmered blend of fresh tomatoes, roasted jalapeño, cilantro, and garlic. Serve this tasteful dip with your favorite dippers!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3medium tomatoes,cored, quartered
1jalapeno,stem removed, roasted
4small garlic cloves
2tbspcilantro
4tbspwater
1tspolive oil
salt,to taste

Instructions

In a blender, add the tomatoes, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, and water. Pulse a few times until completely smooth.
Add oil to a deep skillet, then pour in the tomatoes.
Season with salt, then simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally.
Serve with chips, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 186.19kcal
Fat: 8.02g
Saturated Fat: 1.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.11g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.23g
Carbohydrates: 27.47g
Fiber: 7.60g
Sugar: 15.58g
Protein: 5.98g
Sodium: 1596.37mg
Calcium: 88.01mg
Potassium: 1434.03mg
Iron: 1.88mg
Vitamin A: 253.92µg
Vitamin C: 105.76mg

Essential Technique Tips for Perfect Red Hot Salsa Picante

When making this salsa picante, it's important to adjust the heat level to your preference. The heat in a jalapeno is concentrated in the seeds and ribs, so for a milder salsa, remove these parts before blending. Conversely, if you prefer a spicier salsa, include more of the seeds and ribs. Remember, it's easier to add heat than to take it away, so start with less and add more if needed.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Salsa Picante

Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process.

Prep in advance: Chop, dice, and measure all the ingredients beforehand to save time during the actual cooking.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Multitask: While one component is cooking, use that time to prepare other elements of the dish to maximize efficiency.

Invest in tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets such as food processors, blenders, and mandolines to expedite the prep work.

Substitute Ingredients For Salsa Picante Roja Recipe

tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomatoes: Canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes in salsa. They are convenient and have a similar flavor, although the texture may be slightly different.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers can be used as a substitute for jalapenos in salsa. They have a similar heat level and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves. It provides a concentrated garlic flavor and is convenient to use.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro in salsa if you prefer a milder herb flavor. It adds a fresh, green element to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil in salsa. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular table salt. It adds a slightly different flavor and texture to the dish.

Presentation Tips for Serving Salsa Picante

Elevate the plating: Arrange the salsa in a small ceramic bowl for a sophisticated presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on top of the salsa for a pop of color and flavor.
Incorporate texture: Serve the salsa with homemade tortilla chips for a delightful crunch alongside the vibrant flavors.
Emphasize freshness: Garnish with a sprig of cilantro to highlight the use of fresh ingredients in the salsa.
Highlight the heat: Place a small jalapeño slice on top of the salsa to indicate its spiciness and add visual interest.
Balance the presentation: Accompany the salsa with a wedge of lime to provide a refreshing citrus element to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Salsa Picante

Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
Deep skillet: A large, deep frying pan with a flat bottom and vertical sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Salsa Picante

Allow the salsa to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled salsa to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze the salsa:
- Portion the cooled salsa into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing.
- Frozen salsa can be stored for up to 6 months.
To thaw frozen salsa:
- Remove the desired amount of frozen salsa from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw gradually.
- Alternatively, you can thaw the salsa in the microwave using the defrost setting, stirring occasionally to ensure even thawing.
Once thawed, give the salsa a good stir to redistribute any separated liquid.
Do not refreeze previously frozen and thawed salsa, as this can affect the texture and quality of the product.
Consume thawed salsa within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Salsa Picante

Reheat the salsa in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the salsa is evenly warmed throughout.
If you're in a hurry, you can reheat the salsa in the microwave. Transfer the salsa to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the salsa, as it may cause the flavors to deteriorate.
For a quick and easy method, reheat the salsa in a skillet over medium heat. Stir the salsa constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even heating. This method works well if you plan to use the salsa as a topping for tacos, burritos, or other dishes.
If you have a small amount of leftover salsa, you can reheat it in a double boiler. Fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the salsa in a heat-safe bowl that fits snugly over the pot, ensuring that the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir the salsa occasionally until it's heated through. This gentle heating method helps preserve the flavors and texture of the salsa.
For a unique twist, try reheating the salsa on the grill. Place the salsa in a cast-iron skillet or a grill-safe pan and heat it over medium-low heat on the grill, stirring occasionally. The smoky flavor from the grill will add a new dimension to the salsa's taste.

Interesting Facts About Salsa Picante

The red hot salsa picante recipe is a popular condiment in Mexican cuisine. It is known for its spicy and tangy flavor, which comes from the combination of fresh jalapeños and garlic. This salsa is a great source of vitamin C, thanks to the tomatoes and jalapeños. Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system and skin. Additionally, the capsaicin in the jalapeños can help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. So, next time you enjoy this spicy salsa, remember that it not only adds flavor to your dish but also provides some health benefits.

Is Making Salsa Picante at Home Cost-Effective?

The red hot salsa picante recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of fresh tomatoes, jalapeno, and garlic adds a flavorful punch without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5-$7, making it an economical choice. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavor.

Is Red Hot Salsa Picante Healthy or Unhealthy?

This red hot salsa picante recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, jalapeño, garlic, and cilantro. These ingredients are low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The recipe also uses a minimal amount of olive oil, which is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats. However, the recipe lacks a few key elements that could make it even healthier and more well-rounded.

To further improve the nutritional value of this salsa:

Add more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to increase the fiber content and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals
Use fresh lime juice instead of water to add a bright, citrusy flavor and a boost of vitamin C
Experiment with different herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley to introduce more antioxidants and unique flavors
Reduce the amount of added salt or replace it with other seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to lower the sodium content while maintaining bold flavors
Serve the salsa with whole-grain chips or fresh vegetable slices to increase the fiber and nutrient intake

Editor's Thoughts on the Red Hot Salsa Picante Recipe

This red hot salsa picante recipe is a fiery and flavorful addition to any meal. The combination of fresh tomatoes, spicy jalapeno, and aromatic garlic creates a vibrant and zesty salsa that will awaken your taste buds. The simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and robust salsa that is perfect for dipping with crispy tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos and grilled meats. The addition of cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous note, while the touch of olive oil adds a silky richness. This salsa is sure to be a hit at any gathering or fiesta!

Enhance Your Salsa Picante Roja Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip with a hint of lime and a kick of spice

Quesadillas: Cheesy, melty tortillas filled with your choice of protein and veggies

Tacos: Soft or hard shell tacos filled with your favorite protein and topped with fresh salsa and guacamole

Delicious Alternatives to Red Hot Salsa Picante

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: This dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender chicken with fresh Thai basil and spicy chili peppers.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing salsa is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with ripe mango, creamy avocado, and zesty lime juice.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Indulge in this velvety smooth soup made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream for richness.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Treat yourself to a decadent dessert with a molten chocolate center that oozes out when you dig into the warm, moist cake.

Grilled Peach Salad: Enjoy a delightful mix of smoky grilled peaches, crisp greens, tangy goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette in this summer salad.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Salsa Picante

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty citrus and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a filling mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices to stuff inside colorful bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate dessert that oozes with rich, gooey goodness. The perfect balance of cake and molten chocolate center will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Tiramisu: Experience the delicate layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese, dusted with cocoa powder. This classic Italian dessert is a perfect combination of light and rich flavors that will leave you wanting another bite.

Why trust this Salsa Picante Roja Recipe:

This salsa picante recipe guarantees a burst of flavor with fresh tomatoes, spicy jalapeno, and aromatic garlic. The addition of cilantro and a touch of olive oil enhances the taste, while simmering the ingredients allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Trust this recipe for its authentic Mexican flavors and the use of simple, wholesome ingredients. Your taste buds will thank you!

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Salsa Picante Roja Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any variations, serving suggestions, or tips you may have for this spicy red salsa!

FAQ:

What type of tomatoes should I use for this salsa?

You can use any type of ripe tomatoes for this salsa. I recommend using Roma tomatoes for a thicker consistency, but any variety will work well.

How spicy is this salsa with the jalapeño?

The spiciness of the salsa will depend on the heat of the jalapeño. If you prefer a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds and membrane from the jalapeño before blending.

Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salsa ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Is there a substitute for cilantro if I don't like the taste?

If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a similar green herb flavor.

Can I freeze this salsa?

Yes, you can freeze this salsa. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.