Tomato Salsa — Bright, Chunky, and Ready in 5 Minutes

No-cook salsa bursting with fresh tomatoes, lime, and cilantro. Ready in 5 minutes, naturally gluten-free and dairy-free for perfect dipping.

You’re about to prepare a vibrant, healthy salsa in under five minutes—no cooking required. With ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onion, tangy lime and vinegar, and fresh coriander, this salsa bursts with freshness and energy. It’s a perfect pairing for tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or fish—and is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and nut-free.

Ingredients (Serves 4)  

• 4–6 medium ripe tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
• ½ red onion, minced
• 1 small garlic clove, finely chopped
• Splash of white wine vinegar (a few drops)
• Juice of ½ lime
• ½ bunch fresh coriander, roughly chopped
• Salt, to taste

Equipment You’ll Use  

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Medium mixing bowl
• Citrus juicer (optional)
• Stirring spoon

Step‑by‑Step Method  

1. Prepare Your Ingredients Peel and finely chop your tomatoes—removing seeds helps avoid a watery salsa—then add to your mixing bowl along with the minced red onion and garlic.

2. Layer the Flavors Add a splash of white wine vinegar and squeeze in the fresh lime juice to provide a bright, tangy backbone.

3. Season & Mix Sprinkle in chopped coriander and a pinch of salt. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure all the flavors meld evenly.

4. Rest Before Serving Let your salsa sit at room temperature (or refrigerate briefly). Allowing it to rest for 10–20 minutes helps the salt draw moisture from the tomatoes and deepens the flavor.

5. Taste & Fine‑Tune Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning: add a dash more salt or lime juice as needed.

Pro Tips for Salsa Success  

• Choose ripe, meaty tomatoes like plum, Roma, or vine-ripened—these are ideal for a non-watery, flavor-rich salsa.
• De-seed tomatoes to prevent excess liquid pooling at the bottom of the bowl.
• Balance acidity and salt for full flavor impact; don’t be afraid to adjust before serving.
• Let the salsa rest so the flavors meld—not mandatory, but highly recommended.

Serving Ideas  

• With chips: Scoop onto a plate of sturdy, salted tortilla chips for a fresh appetizer.
• Taco topping: Spoon over grilled fish, chicken, pork, or plant-based tacos.
• Grilled accompaniment: Pair with fish, chicken, or even veggie skewers for brightness.
• Flavor enhancer: Stir into beans, grain bowls, or eggs to add zest and freshness.

Why This Salsa Works  

• Layered taste: Ripe tomatoes offer sweetness while lime and vinegar bring brightness.
• Excellent texture: Chunks of tomato and coriander give it a satisfying bite.
• Versatile & quick: No cooking needed, easy to make ahead, and naturally dietary-friendly.
• Customizable: Add heat with chopped chili peppers or garlic if you like more kick.