my ultimate salsa fresca - slightly tweaked

3 Pinches
San Diego
Updated on Mar 20, 2026

This is just a slight tweaking of my original family recipe, incorporating a bit of lime juice and cumin. Changes up the flavor ever so slightly!

prep time 30 Min
cook time
method Refrigerate/Freeze
yield 3 cup(s)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound red ripe tomatoes, diced (don't use canned!)
  • 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, rubbed between your palms to crush
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • ground pepper, to taste
  • 2-3 serrano chiles, minced (to taste, these are hot!)

How To Make my ultimate salsa fresca - slightly tweaked

  • Step 1
    In a non-reactive bowl, combine all ingredients EXCEPT serrano chiles.
  • Step 2
    Add the minced serrano chiles, a little at a time, tasting for "heat" until you reach the level you can stand.
  • Step 3
    Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking. Salsa Fresca is a very personal thing! LOL.
  • Step 4
    Let it stand for fifteen minutes to let the flavors meld. A small squeeze of lime juice is also good.
  • Step 5
    Refrigerate until ready to use. Although this will keep overnight in the fridge, it is best to use it on the same day it is made. The flavors will be brighter, and the tomatoes won't get soft.

Discover More

Culture: Mexican
Category: Salsas
Ingredient: Vegetable

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