How to make salsa
While a popular party dip, there are many variations on salsa. Our guide features the best combos from spicy chilli to cooling avocado and sweet tomatillo.
No party would be complete without a selection of chips, dips, or salsa. Ideal for sharing as well as quick and simple to prepare, everyone should have an easy salsa recipe on standby. They're also handy for dolloping on fajitas, stirring into pasta or adding as a final flourish to your favourite burger.
The classic salsa recipe
Traditional tomato salsa can vary in the spicing and seasoning, but the core ingredients are generally the same: chopped tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil and hot chillies. You can blitz your ingredients in a food processor for a finer salsa, or chop by hand and keep it chunky, depending on your preference. There are a myriad recipes with different types of chilli peppers, varieties of tomatoes and with garlic or without, so experiment and find your favourite.
Watch our easiest ever dips video for our super simple salsa recipe along with guacamole and sour cream & chive. Just buy in the chips and that's everything you need for a party platter.
Or, for those who fancy a Mediterranean twist, try this simple tomato salsa that is served over slices of chunky mozzarella. If you're having a sit-down dinner, it makes a great summery starter.
If you're feeling more adventurous, why not try these stunning variations?
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Watermelon salsa
This zingy watermelon salsa is a real summer speciality. Pile spoonfuls on top of nachos or serve as a dip – either way be prepared for it to disappear, fast. It makes a handy vegan snack or side dish, too, and it's healthy.
Guacamole salsa
A squeeze of lime, a dash of white wine vinegar and some chopped chillies create a perfectly balanced guacamole salsa. The heat from the chillies combined with cool avocado makes an addictive combination. But if you prefer a chunky salsa over smooth and creamy, try this healthy tomato & avocado salsa.
Smoky pepper salsa
Bring a touch of class to any Mexican feast with our chipotle pepper salsa which has a healthy dose of chipotle paste for a subtle, smoky heat. Don't forget to grill your peppers before blitzing to bring out their sweetness. Discerning guests will also appreciate this Brazilian pepper salsa with sweet paprika, ideal for adding the wow factor to a summer barbecue.
Crunchy sweetcorn salsa
For a vivid veggie side with crunch, you can throw together this sweetcorn salsa with coriander, lime and crumbly feta and have it on the table in minutes. To take it up a notch, have a go at making our charred sweetcorn salsa using griddled corn on the cob for a more caramelised flavour.
Tomatillo salsa
Tomatillo salsa is the sauce you need to really elevate your burritos and tacos. Tomatillos are tomato-like fruits and add an injection of freshness and tang to your salsa. Chunky avocado adds comforting softness to this slightly spiced sauce.
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Which salsa is king of your chip platter? Let us know in the comments below...
