This bright, lively verde salsa uses a light roast method that gently softens the vegetables while keeping their fresh, vibrant flavor intact. Tomatillos, onion, garlic, and peppers are warmed just enough to deepen flavor, while fresh cilantro and lime remain uncooked for essential brightness. The result is a rustic, chunky salsa that’s perfect for chips, tacos, seafood, eggs, and more.

INGREDIENTS 

Lightly Roast These

1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed

1/2 jalapeño for base heat

Optional for more heat: extra jalapeño or serrano pepper

1/2 white onion, cut into chunks

2–3 garlic cloves

Do Not Roast

1/2 cup fresh cilantro

Juice of 1 lime

Other Seasonings 

1/2–1 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Optional: 1 diced avocado, folded in at the end

1. Light Roast the Vegetables

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add tomatillos, onion, garlic, and peppers. Lightly roast for 4–6 minutes, until softened and lightly blistered but not charred. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

2. Start in the Food Processor with Herbs

Add the fresh cilantro to a food processor. Pulse 2–3 times until loosely chopped.

3. Add Lightly Roasted Garlic and Onion

Add the roasted garlic and onion to the processor. Pulse 3–4 times to maintain a rustic texture.

4. Add Lightly Roasted Peppers

Add the roasted jalapeño first and pulse 1–2 times. Taste and add additional roasted pepper if more heat is desired.

5. Add Lightly Roasted Tomatillos Last

Add the roasted tomatillos on top. Pulse 3–6 times depending on your preferred level of chunkiness.

6. Stir in Fresh Lime and Seasonings

Transfer the salsa to a bowl. Stir in lime juice, salt, and black pepper by hand to preserve texture and brightness.

7. Optional Avocado

Fold in diced avocado gently for a creamy-chunky finish if desired.

8. Chill and Serve

Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving. Serve with chips, tacos, shrimp, fish, chicken, or eggs.

SERVING IDEAS 

• Serve with tortilla chips or plantain chips

• Spoon over tacos, burrito bowls, or eggs

• Pair with grilled shrimp, fish, or chicken

• Add to breakfast plates or brunch spreads

   

NOTES

• Light roasting enhances flavor without overpowering freshness

• Keeping cilantro and lime raw preserves brightness

• Serrano peppers provide smoother, higher heat if desired

  
   

RECIPE PAIRINGS AND HELPFUL LINKS

• Pair with Cajun-Mexican fusion dishes or seafood recipes

• Serve alongside tacos, grilled meats, or brunch plates

• Link to your Sauces, Condiments & Seasonings category page

• Shop my favorites on my Amazon Storefront.