Restaurant Style Salsa Recipe
Introduction
Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of restaurant-style salsa right at home with this easy recipe. It combines ripe tomatoes, zesty lime, and a touch of spice for a perfect dip or topping.

Ingredients
- 15 ounces canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons diced canned jalapeno
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the tomatoes, jalapeno, chopped onion, garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and cilantro (if using) into a blender or food processor.
- Step 2: Process the mixture until mostly smooth, leaving some texture for a fresh salsa feel.
- Step 3: Taste the salsa and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lime juice, or jalapeno to your preference.
- Step 4: Transfer the salsa to a container and refrigerate. The salsa will develop more heat the longer it sits.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoky flavor, try adding a small amount of chipotle pepper instead of jalapeno.
- If you prefer a chunkier salsa, pulse the ingredients briefly rather than blending completely.
- Fresh jalapeno can be used for a brighter, fresher heat instead of canned.
- Add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
Storage
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Re-stir before serving, and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh ripe tomatoes can be used. Blanch and peel them first for the best texture, then proceed with the recipe.
How spicy will this salsa be?
The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeno used and how long the salsa sits. It tends to get spicier over time, so start with less if you prefer mild heat.
Print
Restaurant Style Salsa Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
Description
This Restaurant Style Salsa is a vibrant, tangy, and mildly spicy salsa made with simple pantry ingredients. Blended to a smooth consistency, it’s perfect for dipping chips or adding a fresh kick to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 15 ounces canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons diced canned jalapeno
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients, including whole peeled tomatoes, diced jalapeno, chopped onion, garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and cilantro if using.
- Blend Salsa: Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor and pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth but still slightly chunky to retain some texture.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the salsa and add more salt or lime juice as needed to balance the flavors. If you prefer spicier salsa, add additional jalapeno, but remember it will intensify the longer it sits.
- Chill and Store: Transfer the salsa to a container and refrigerate for up to 5 days to allow flavors to meld and improve.
Notes
- Use canned whole peeled tomatoes for a richer texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeno based on your desired spice level.
- Cilantro is optional but adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the salsa.
- This salsa tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: restaurant style salsa, blender salsa, quick salsa, easy salsa recipe, Mexican salsa

