Recipes
Global

Salsa Fresca

A bright, refreshing raw salsa made entirely from homegrown garden staples.

Ingredients

  • 2–3 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 chili pepper (jalapeño, serrano, or preferred heat level)
  • ¼ onion (red or white)
  • Small handful of fresh cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt
  • Optional: garlic, avocado, sweet pepper, green onion

Method

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Swaps & variations

  • Mild version: replace chili with sweet pepper
  • Smoky variation: add roasted tomatoes or chipotle
  • Creamy version: add diced avocado

Storing & freezing

Best enjoyed fresh. Keeps 1–2 days refrigerated. Not suitable for freezing.

Grow it yourself

  • Full sun; water deeply but infrequently.,Add compost monthly for improved flavor.,Prune lower leaves for airflow. Tomatoes
  • Require heat; start indoors early.,Mulch to maintain soil warmth.,Water at the base, not overhead. Chili Peppers
  • Grow from sets or seed.,Prefer loose soil with few weeds. Onions
  • Cool-season herb that bolts quickly in heat.,Sow every 2–3 weeks for continuous supply.,Partial shade prolongs harvest. Cilantro
  • Garlic-chili spray prevents aphids and mites.
  • Lacewings and ladybugs naturally control pests.
  • Basil companion planting repels flies and enhances tomato flavor.
  • Pick when firm, fragrant, and fully colored. Tomatoes
  • Harvest green for less heat; red for maximum heat. Chili Peppers
  • Harvest leaves young and tender.,Cut outer stems to promote regrowth. Cilantro

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