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Green Tomato Salsa Recipe

4.9 from 108 reviews

A vibrant and tangy Green Tomato Salsa made by broiling fresh green tomatoes, serrano peppers, and garlic, then blending them with cilantro, lime juice, and salt. This salsa balances smoky roasted flavors with a bright, zesty kick, perfect for serving with chips, tacos, or grilled dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Produce

  • 12 whole serrano peppers (or 1 jalapeño pepper)
  • 1 pound green tomatoes (approximately 3 large green tomatoes)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic (peeled)
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Pantry

  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus more to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broiler: Set your oven’s broiler to high and position the oven rack about 8 to 10 inches from the heating element to ensure proper roasting.
  2. Prep the Peppers: Remove the stem, ribs, and seeds from 1 to 2 serrano peppers or 1 jalapeño pepper. If you want a hotter salsa, save the seeds separately to add later.
  3. Trim the Tomatoes: If your green tomatoes are large, quarter them to help them roast evenly. Smaller tomatoes can be left whole.
  4. Arrange Ingredients for Broiling: Place the prepared peppers, tomatoes, and peeled garlic cloves evenly on a large baking sheet.
  5. First Broil: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 4 to 5 minutes, until the ingredients start to blacken and blister.
  6. Flip and Broil Again: Carefully turn the peppers, tomatoes, and garlic over and broil for another 4 to 5 minutes until nicely charred on both sides.
  7. Transfer to Food Processor: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the roasted ingredients to a food processor. Start by adding only half of the serrano or jalapeño peppers to control heat level.
  8. Add Seasonings and Blend: Add the chopped cilantro, salt, and lime juice to the food processor. Secure the lid and process until you reach your preferred salsa texture, whether chunky or smooth.
  9. Taste and Adjust: Sample the salsa and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lime juice, or remaining peppers and seeds if you want more heat.
  10. Serve or Store: Transfer the salsa to a serving container. Let it cool to room temperature or refrigerate until chilled. Enjoy with your favorite dishes.

Notes

  • Removing pepper seeds reduces heat; save them separately for spicy salsa.
  • Broiling imparts a smoky flavor that deepens the salsa’s taste.
  • Adjust lime juice and salt to your preference for acidity and seasoning.
  • This salsa pairs well with chips, grilled meats, or as a topping for tacos.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Keywords: green tomato salsa, serrano pepper salsa, roasted salsa, Mexican salsa, fresh salsa, broiled salsa, spicy salsa, cilantro lime salsa