There’s something special about the last tomatoes of the garden season.
As summer winds down, I always try to make the most of every tomato that’s still ripening on the vine. Instead of letting those odds and ends go to waste, I love turning them into a batch of fresh homemade salsa. It’s colorful, healthy, and comes together in just a couple of minutes.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly simple thanks to the new Pampered Chef Electric Twist & Chop. If you enjoy homemade salsa but don’t enjoy all the chopping, this little kitchen helper is going to become one of your favorites.
Here’s the recipe from my website. I recommend using lime juice instead of lemon
Why I Love This Fresh Salsa
One of my favorite things about homemade salsa is that it’s made almost entirely from fresh vegetables. If you’re looking for an easy way to add more produce to your meals, salsa is a delicious place to start.
Since I’m using tomatoes straight from my garden, every batch is a little different. This one included:
- Early Girl tomatoes
- San Marzano tomatoes
- Cherry tomatoes
The variety adds wonderful flavor, color, and texture.
The Electric Twist & Chop Makes It Easy
The Electric Twist & Chop takes almost all of the work out of making fresh salsa.
A few features I especially like:
- Powerful motor quickly chops vegetables and herbs.
- Pulse button lets you control the texture.
- Suction cups keep it securely in place while you use it.
- Built-in pour spout makes serving easy.
- The bowl comes apart for simple cleanup.
One thing to remember: the blades are extremely sharp, so always remove them carefully before serving.
Fresh Garden Salsa Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped into large pieces
- ¼ onion (any variety will work)
- Fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove (or 2 small cloves)
- Juice of ½ lime
- ½ teaspoon salt (or less, to taste)
Instructions
- Add the onion, cilantro, and garlic to the Twist & Chop.
- Pulse a few times until finely chopped.
- Add the tomatoes, lime juice, and salt.
- Pulse until the salsa reaches your preferred consistency.
- Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
- Remove the blade carefully and serve immediately.
That’s it! Fresh salsa in just a couple of minutes.
Make It Your Own
One of the best things about homemade salsa is how easy it is to customize.
For a mild salsa, leave it just as written.
If you enjoy a little heat, try adding:
- Fresh jalapeño
- Serrano pepper
- Or my personal favorite—a smoked jalapeño (chipotle) for a rich, smoky flavor that takes the salsa to another level.
Don’t have a lime? Lemon juice works just fine, although I think the lime gives it a fresher flavor.
Ways to Enjoy Fresh Salsa
Of course, tortilla chips are always a good choice, but fresh salsa is incredibly versatile.
Try serving it:
- On tacos or burrito bowls
- Over scrambled eggs or omelets
- With grilled chicken or fish
- On baked potatoes
- Mixed into rice bowls
- As a topping for burgers
- Alongside quesadillas
It’s one of those recipes that instantly brightens almost any meal.
Don’t Let Those Garden Tomatoes Go to Waste
Even if your garden is winding down, those last few tomatoes can become something truly delicious.
Whether you’re harvesting from your backyard, shopping at the farmers market, or picking up fresh tomatoes from the grocery store, this quick salsa is an easy way to enjoy the flavors of late summer.
I hope you’ll give it a try! And I’d love to know…
How would you serve your fresh salsa? Would you grab a bowl of tortilla chips, spoon it over taco night, or add it to your favorite breakfast?
Happy cooking!
— Julie Gizzi, Cooking with Julie Gizzi
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