Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Fresh Salsa Cruda

Cinco de Mayo is a festive time to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. One of the best ways to get into the spirit of the holiday is by enjoying delicious, fresh food. One of my favorite recipes for this occasion is Salsa Cruda. This fresh, uncooked salsa is incredibly easy to make and bursts with vibrant flavors. I remember my first Cinco de Mayo celebration with friends where this salsa was the star of the party. It was a hit with everyone, and since then, it has become a staple in my Cinco de Mayo festivities. Let’s dive into the details of making this simple yet flavorful salsa.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe: Salsa Cruda

Brief Description: Salsa Cruda is a fresh, uncooked salsa made with ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. It’s perfect for dipping chips, topping tacos, or adding to any Mexican-inspired dish.

Ingredients List

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt to taste
• Optional: 1 avocado, diced

Substitutions:

If you prefer a milder salsa, you can substitute the jalapeño with a milder pepper like a poblano. For those who enjoy extra heat, consider adding a serrano pepper. If you don’t have red onion, a white or yellow onion will also work well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing the tomatoes and finely chopping the red onion. Mince the jalapeño, ensuring you remove the seeds if you want to reduce the heat. Chop the fresh cilantro and mince the garlic clove.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and minced garlic. Mix everything together gently.

Step 3: Add Lime Juice and Season

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and add salt to taste. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. If using, gently fold in the diced avocado at this stage.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of salsa. Here are some ideas for enjoying your Salsa Cruda:

• With Chips: Serve with a bowl of tortilla chips for a classic appetizer.
• On Tacos: Use as a fresh topping for tacos, adding a burst of flavor and freshness.
• As a Salad: Enjoy as a side salad alongside grilled meats or fish.
• In Burritos: Add to burritos for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 25
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g (excluding avocado)

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips:

If you have leftover salsa, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify over time, so adjust seasoning if necessary when serving again.

Reheating Instructions:

Salsa Cruda is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, so reheating is not necessary. Simply give it a good stir before serving if it has been stored for a while.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Salsa in Advance?

Yes, you can make Salsa Cruda a day in advance. The flavors will meld together even more, making it taste even better the next day. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?

To make the salsa spicier, add more minced jalapeño or include the seeds. For a milder salsa, reduce the amount of jalapeño or substitute with a milder pepper.

What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?

Consider adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. You can also add a dash of cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo with fresh, homemade Salsa Cruda is a fantastic way to bring vibrant, authentic flavors to your table. This easy and versatile recipe is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a delicious snack. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this salsa as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your creations with us, leave a comment, and follow DelishDigs for more tasty and easy recipes. ¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!