Description
This vibrant Salsa Roja recipe features roasted Roma tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, and fragrant spices blended into a smooth, flavorful sauce. Perfectly balanced with lime juice and fresh cilantro, this salsa adds a smoky, tangy kick to your favorite Mexican dishes or as a zesty dip alongside tortilla chips. Quick and easy to prepare, it requires just 30 minutes and serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 8 roma tomatoes
- 1/2 small onion
- 2 jalapeño peppers (or substitute with serrano peppers or red chilies)
- 2 cloves garlic
Other Ingredients
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the vegetables roast evenly and develop deep flavors.
- Prepare the vegetables: Spread the roma tomatoes, onion half, and jalapeño peppers on a large sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin over the vegetables. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Roast the vegetables: Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the vegetables are blistered. Then switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a nice char. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Blend the salsa: Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onion, peppers, and the pan juices into a food processor. Add garlic cloves and lime juice, then blend until smooth for a balanced texture and consistent flavor.
- Incorporate the cilantro: Add the fresh cilantro to the food processor and pulse a few times to combine, keeping a slightly coarse texture without over-blending.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Sample the salsa and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice to perfectly suit your taste preferences.
- Serve and enjoy: Chill the salsa for a few hours before serving to deepen the flavors. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos for a delightful meal addition.
Notes
- Roasting and broiling the vegetables enhances the salsa’s smoky flavor.
- Adjust the number of peppers based on your desired spice level.
- Fresh cilantro is important for the authentic taste and aroma in the salsa.
- Chilling the salsa before serving helps meld the flavors perfectly.
- This salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
