It's Tomato Time!!!

I love this time of year, everything is growing in the garden like crazy and you just can’t beat fresh fruits, herbs, and veggies for a great dinner.  I love Salsa, almost too much because I eat it on chips, bagel chips, toast, eggs, you name it, I’ve tried it.  There's something about fresh, homemade salsa that just can't be beat. Whether you're serving it as a dip for chips or using it to top your favorite Mexican dishes, there's nothing quite like the taste of salsa made with fresh, juicy tomatoes. But how do you make the best homemade salsa possible? In this article, we'll walk you through the process step by step.

First off, let's talk about the ingredients you'll need. Of course, the most important ingredient in any tomato-based salsa is fresh tomatoes. Ripe, juicy tomatoes will give your salsa the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. You'll also need onions (white or red), garlic, jalapeño peppers (if you prefer a milder salsa, you can skip these), cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. You may also want to add other ingredients such as bell peppers, corn, or black beans, depending on your personal preference.

Now, let's get started. The first step is to prepare your tomatoes. Start by washing them thoroughly and then slicing them in half. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any excess juice. Then, dice the tomatoes into small pieces and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

Next, it's time to prepare your other ingredients. Finely chop your onion and garlic and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes. If you're using jalapeño peppers, remove the stems and seeds and finely chop them as well. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers, as they can cause irritation if they come into contact with your eyes or skin.

Now it's time to add your cilantro. This flavorful herb adds a fresh, bright flavor to your salsa. Chop it finely and add it to the bowl with the other ingredients. You can use as much or as little cilantro as you like, depending on your personal preference.

Once you've added all of your ingredients to the mixing bowl, it's time to start seasoning your salsa. Start with a generous squeeze of lime juice – this will help to brighten up the flavors of your salsa. Then, add a pinch of salt and pepper and stir everything together. Be sure to taste your salsa at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may find that you need to add a bit more salt, lime juice, or even some sugar to balance out the flavors.

At this point, your salsa is almost ready to serve. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can transfer your salsa to a blender or food processor and pulse it a few times until it reaches your desired consistency. Just be careful not to over-blend it, or you'll end up with a watery salsa.

Finally, it's time to enjoy your homemade salsa! Serve it with tortilla chips as a dip, or use it to top your favorite Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Your friends and family are sure to be impressed by your delicious, homemade salsa.

In conclusion, making homemade salsa is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of preparation, you can create a fresh, flavorful salsa that's perfect for any occasion. So next time you're craving something spicy and delicious, give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!  

Keep Growin'

Papa Zeep