Roasted Tomato Salsa

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 2½–3 cups

 What is Roasted Tomato Salsa?

Roasted Tomato Salsa, or Salsa Roja Asada, is a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy salsa made by roasting fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and chilies until charred, then blending them into a rustic, chunky dip. It’s a staple in Mexican cuisine and far more flavorful than anything from a jar.

This salsa works great with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, eggs, or even spooned over rice bowls.

 Ingredients

For the Salsa:

• 5–6 medium ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum work best)

• 1 small white or yellow onion, peeled and quartered

• 3 cloves garlic, unpeeled

• 1–2 jalapeños (or 1 serrano for more heat)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)

 Optional Add-ins:

• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo (for a smoky heat)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity, if needed)

 Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

You can roast using the oven, grill, or stovetop. Here’s the oven method:

1. Preheat your broiler to high (or oven to 450°F / 230°C).

2. Arrange whole tomatoes, onion quarters, unpeeled garlic cloves, and jalapeños on a foil-lined baking sheet.

3. Drizzle with a little olive oil and roast for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until skins are blistered and charred.

4. Remove and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Peel the garlic and, if desired, remove jalapeño stems and seeds for a milder salsa.

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Step 2: Blend or Pulse

1. Add roasted tomatoes, garlic, onion, and jalapeños to a blender or food processor.

2. Add lime juice, salt, pepper, and cilantro (if using).

3. Pulse until desired consistency — chunky or smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Spice Tip: Start with one jalapeño. You can always add more after tasting!

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Step 3: Serve or Chill

• Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.

• Letting it sit for 30 minutes (or overnight) allows the flavors to deepen.

 Serving Ideas

• As a dip with tortilla chips or veggies

• Spoon over grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp

• Top eggs, quesadillas, tacos, burritos, or tostadas

• Add to beans, rice bowls, or grain salads

• Mix into sour cream or Greek yogurt for a smoky crema

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in a sealed jar or container for up to 5–7 days

• Freezer: Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months

• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave for a few seconds if desired

 Nutrition Information (Per 2 Tbsp – Approximate)

Low in calories, sugar, and carbs — naturally vegan and gluten-free!