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Avocado Salsa: The Ultimate Guide to Making the Best Fresh Salsa


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 cups 1x

Description

Fresh and vibrant avocado salsa packed with flavor! This easy recipe combines creamy avocado with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and spices for a delicious dip or topping.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • Optional: 1 mango, peeled and diced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and diced red bell pepper. Be careful not to mash the avocados too much.
  2. Add Aromatics and Herbs: Add the chopped cilantro and minced garlic to the bowl.
  3. Incorporate Lime Juice and Olive Oil: Pour the lime juice and olive oil over the avocado mixture.
  4. Spice it Up: Sprinkle the cumin and chili powder over the salsa.
  5. Season to Perfection: Season the salsa with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Optional Additions: If using corn kernels, black beans, or mango, gently fold them into the salsa.
  7. Taste and Adjust: Give the salsa a good stir and then taste it. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, lime juice, or spices to your liking.
  8. Let the Flavors Meld: For the best flavor, cover the salsa and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  9. Serving Suggestions: Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or as a topping for salads.
  10. Garnishing (Optional): Before serving, you can garnish the salsa with a sprinkle of extra cilantro or a few lime wedges.
  11. Storage: Store any leftover avocado salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 days, but the avocado may start to brown slightly.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spice level. Remove seeds for milder salsa.
  • Avocado Ripeness: Use ripe but firm avocados.
  • Onion Options: Red onion is preferred, but white or yellow can be substituted.
  • Herb Variations: Parsley or chives can be used instead of cilantro.
  • Fruit Additions: Experiment with pineapple, peaches, or strawberries.
  • Smoked Flavor: Grill the red bell pepper or add smoked paprika.
  • Creamy Salsa: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare a few hours in advance, but be aware of browning.
  • Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes