Name: Spicy Fresh Tomato Salsa
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 6 pounds Roma (plum) tomatoes; ¼ pound Roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped; 2 tablespoons garlic powder; ¼ cup lemon juice; 1 ½ tablespoons salt; 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; 1 red onion, chopped; 1 white onion, chopped; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 1 pound jalapeño peppers, chopped; ⅓ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this salsa because it’s made from scratch with fresh ingredients, giving it a vibrant flavor that store-bought versions can’t match. The combination of ripe tomatoes, three kinds of onions, and plenty of jalapeños makes it hearty, spicy, and deliciously addictive. It’s a versatile recipe you can customize to your spice level and enjoy year-round.

Ingredients

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

6 pounds roma (plum) tomatoes
¼ pound roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons garlic powder
¼ cup lemon juice
1 ½ tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 red onion, chopped
1 white onion, chopped
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 pound jalapeño peppers, chopped
⅓ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score the bottoms of the whole Roma tomatoes with a small “X” and blanch them in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until skins loosen. Transfer to an ice bath, peel off skins, and roughly chop.
Place the peeled tomatoes, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, cayenne pepper, and cumin into a large saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chopped onions, jalapeños, and the additional ¼ pound of chopped fresh tomatoes. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes until vegetables soften and flavors combine.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro.
Let the salsa cool, then serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–14 cups of salsa, serving 12–15 people as a dip or condiment.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Adjust heat by using fewer jalapeños or removing seeds for a milder salsa.
Add roasted or grilled tomatoes and peppers for a smoky flavor.
Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a more traditional Mexican twist.
Stir in diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture.
Add roasted corn for a slightly sweet and smoky addition.

Storage/Reheating

Store salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, it can be canned using proper water-bath canning methods or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating isn’t necessary, but if served warm, gently heat on the stove over low heat.

FAQs

How spicy is this salsa?

It’s quite spicy due to the large amount of jalapeños and cayenne, but you can adjust the heat level to taste.

Can I make this salsa without cooking it?

Yes, but the flavor will be fresher and less blended. Cooking deepens and balances the flavors.

What tomatoes work best for salsa?

Roma or plum tomatoes are best because they are firm, meaty, and less watery than other varieties.

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?

Yes, lime juice is a great substitute and adds authentic Mexican flavor.

How do I make the salsa less watery?

Remove some of the tomato seeds and cores before cooking, or simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.

Can I roast the vegetables first?

Yes, roasting the tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños adds a smoky, rich flavor.

Is this salsa suitable for canning?

Yes, if prepared with proper sterilization and canning methods, it can be preserved for long-term storage.

Can I blend the salsa for a smoother texture?

Yes, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to make it smooth instead of chunky.

How long does homemade salsa last?

It lasts about 5–7 days refrigerated, or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What can I serve this salsa with?

It pairs well with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, grilled meats, scrambled eggs, or as a topping for rice bowls.

Conclusion

Spicy Fresh Tomato Salsa is a bold, flavorful, and versatile condiment that brings heat and freshness to any dish. Packed with ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and fragrant spices, it’s the perfect balance of spicy and savory. Whether served with chips, tacos, or grilled favorites, this homemade salsa will become a go-to for adding flavor and spice to your meals.