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    Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Sauces

    Restaurant Style Salsa

    Published: Aug 9, 2018 · Modified: Feb 28, 2022 by Dannii · This post may contain affiliate links · 157 Comments

    1204 shares
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    Diet: Gluten Free / Low Carb / Low Fat / Vegan

    Salsa can really make or break a Mexican dish, which is why it is so important to have the best salsa you possibly can. This restaurant style salsa is exactly that - the kind of amazing salsa you get in a Mexican restaurant that you can't stop eating. Now you can make it at home in a couple of minutes with this easy recipe. Grab some tortilla chips and get dipping!

    A bowl of tomato salsa surrounded by tortilla chips.

    Each time we have visited Mexico, the salsa has always been a highlight. It's zesty, spicy and I put it on everything! Each time we've come back from a Mexico trip I have gone through a salsa (and guac) withdrawal and it's no joke. We always turn to this easy restaurant salsa, as it's the closest to authentic Mexican salsa that I have had.

    If you are looking for some other Mexican recipes to try, then why not try our Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa, Chipotle Black Bean Nachos, Chicken Quesadillas, Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas or Shredded Beef Tacos.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients needed
    • How to make restaurant style salsa - step by step
    • Why you should try it
    • Health benefits of tomatoes
    • What to serve with Restaurant Style Salsa
    • Storage
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Extra tips
    • More sauce recipes
    • Recipe
    • Feedback

    Ingredients needed

    All the ingredients needed for this recipe with text overlay labels.
    • Tomatoes - We have used tinned tomatoes, to make this quick and easy. We used whole plum tomatoes, rather than chopped, as we find they have a better flavour. Try to use the best quality tomatoes you can, as the cheaper ones tend to be more watery and don't have the best flavour.
    • Garlic - We like to crush it before it goes in the food processor, just to make sure it's more like a puree and evenly distributed in the salsa. You can use ready chopped garlic in a jar if you prefer.
    • Onion - We used red onion.
    • Jalapeños - This is what gives the spiciness to the salsa. You can use more or less depending how spicy you like it.
    • Lime - We have used just the juice, but if you wanted to add more of a zesty flavour, then you could add the zest too.
    • Coriander (cilantro) - This is a must when it comes to salsa, but I know not everyone is a fan. Feel free to adjust it to suit your own tastes.
    • A pinch of sea salt and black pepper - Season to taste.

    A full ingredients list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

    How to make restaurant style salsa - step by step

    One: Put all of the salsa ingredients in to a blender or food processor and pulse for around 10 times. I like my salsa a bit chunky, so blend for longer if you want a smoother salsa. A good mix of the two is perfect.
    Two: Serve in a bowl with some extra coriander on top and tortilla chips for dipping.

    All the ingredients needed for this recipe in a food processor.

    Why you should try it

    • Quick and easy - This restaurant style salsa takes less than 5 minutes and it is as simple as whizzing everything up in the food processor.
    • Cheap to make - Because we have used canned tomatoes rather than fresh, this is a cheap dish to make. Using canned tomatoes also means you can make it all year round and you don't need to rely on ripe fresh tomatoes.
    • Stores well - Make a big batch and then keep it in the fridge to add to meals throughout the week.
    • Versatile - There is SO much that you can do with this salsa. Tacos, salads, dips - we have given lots of suggestions of how to use it below.

    Health benefits of tomatoes

    Because of the tomatoes, this salsa is bursting with goodness. Tomatoes, which are mainly a carbohydrate with some fibre, are packed full of vitamins, including beta-carotene (which becomes vitamin A when consumed), vitamins C and E, and some B vitamins and vitamin K. They also contain some calcium and magnesium.

    Tomatoes are also a good source of potassium, which has been shown to be associated with lower risk of stroke and heart disease. Tomatoes also contain a compound called lycopene, which gives them their red colour, which research shows has the potential for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

    We have used canned tomatoes for this salsa, as it makes it much easier. Is there anything you can't do with a can of tomatoes? I say it time and time again, but if you have some in your cupboard, you can always make a meal. They are the base of this restaurant salsa and the reason why it is so easy, as you don't need to wash and chop any tomatoes.

    When using canned tomatoes, you want to use the best quality that you can afford. The cheap tomatoes are really watery and just don't have any taste. Go for whole plum tomatoes in the can too as you get more of that tomato flavour.

    What to serve with Restaurant Style Salsa

    There are so many different ways to use this salsa, as it is so versatile. Why not use it to make our Salsa Chicken or serve it as a dip with our Air Fryer Tortilla Chips or Baked Tortilla Chips.

    If you are looking for Mexican dishes to serve it with, why not try our Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa, Chipotle Black Bean Nachos, Breakfast Burrito, Chicken Quesadilla or Fish Tacos.

    It's also delicious on eggs. Why not try our Fluffy Microwave Scrambled Eggs or Microwave Poached Eggs.

    Storage

    Store: You can store this salsa in the fridge in an air tight container for up to 4 days.

    Freeze: We wouldn't recommend freezing this salsa, as it is a fresh salsa rather than cooked. If you wanted to freeze it, you would need to cook it through first.

    A deep red salsa topped with chopped coriander leaves.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How easy is it to make restaurant style salsa?

    It honestly couldn't be any simpler. You just throw the ingredients in to a food processor and blitz until it's either still a bit chunky, or smooth, depending on your preference. If you have unexpected guests, then this is the easiest thing to whizz up, and you probably already have the ingredients in your kitchen.

    Why is my salsa watery?

    You need to use the best quality tinned tomatoes you can. If you have used cheaper tinned tomatoes, these tend to be watery and they will give you a watery salsa.

    How spicy is restaurant style salsa?

    The best thing about this is that you can adjust it to suit your own tastes. We like our salsa with a kick of heat, so use less jalapenoes if you don't like spicy food.

    Is restaurant style salsa vegan?

    Yes, this salsa is vegan.

    Is restaurant style salsa gluten free?

    As long as you make sure that there is no cross contamination, this is gluten free.

    Can you make restaurant style salsa in advance?

    Yes, and we would recommend doing so as it is better after it has been left to rest in the fridge for a couple of hours, as it allows all the flavours to come together.

    heart icon

    Extra tips

    • Use different types of chilli each time to change the taste. If you like something a bit smokier, then add some chipotle paste instead of the jalapenos.
    • If you have a lot of tomatoes that need using, you can always use fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
    • A little bit of sugar goes a long way in this if you like your salsa on the sweet side. It brings out the flavour of the tomatoes.
    • If you don't like your salsa too spicy, remove the seeds from the chilli first. That way you get all the flavour from the chilli, but not so much of the heat.
    • Make this salsa even chunkier by stirring in some sweetcorn before serving.
    • This salsa will keep in an air-tight container for around 3-4 days.

    More sauce recipes

    • Easy Cheddar Cheese Sauce
    • Easy Pizza Sauce
    • Easy Tartare Sauce
    • Salsa Picante

    If you’ve tried this easy restaurant style salsa recipe, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
    Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

    Recipe

    Restaurant style salsa in a bowl with some tortilla chips.

    Restaurant Style Salsa

    This restaurant style salsa is the kind of amazing salsa you get in a Mexican restaurant that you can't stop eating. Now you can make it at home in a couple of minutes with this easy recipe.
    A circular logo saying GF.
    Gluten Free
    The words low carb in a white circle.
    Low Carb
    the words low fat in a white circle.
    Low Fat
    An illustration of a v-shaped plant in a pot.
    Vegan
    4.96 from 65 votes
    Author: Dannii
    Pin Print Save recipe Recipe saved!
    Course: Sauce/Spread
    Cuisine: Mexican
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes
    Servings: 10 people
    Calories: 29kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    UK Metric Measures - US Customary Measures
    • 800 g Plum tomatoes - canned
    • 1 Garlic clove - crushed
    • 0.5 Red onion - finely chopped
    • 1 cup Fresh coriander (cilantro) - (cilantro)
    • 1 Lime - (juice only)
    • 3 Jalapeños - (more or less depending how spicy you like it)
    • 1 pinch Sea salt and black pepper

    Instructions

    • Put all of the ingredients in to a blender or food processor and pulse around 10 times. I like my salsa a bit chunky, so blend for longer if you want a smoother salsa.
    • Serve in a bowl with some extra coriander on top and tortilla chips for dipping.

    Notes

    • Use different types of chilli each time to change the taste. If you like something a bit smokier, then add some chipotle paste instead of the jalapenos.
    • If you have a lot of tomatoes that need using, you can always use fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
    • A little bit of sugar goes a long way in this if you like your salsa on the sweet side. It brings out the flavour of the tomatoes.
    • If you don't like your salsa too spicy, remove the seeds from the chilli first. That way you get all the flavour from the chilli, but not so much of the heat.
    • Make this salsa even chunkier by stirring in some sweetcorn before serving.
    • This salsa will keep in an air-tight container for around 3-4 days.

    Nutritional Information

    Serving: 1portion | Calories: 29kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 30mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Vitamin C: 6.6mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.2mg
    DisclaimerThe nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jessie

      August 10, 2018 at 9:23 pm

      5 stars
      Yayy for a good salsa recipe! This one has a great flavor, thank you for the share!

      Reply
    2. Michael Sharp

      August 10, 2018 at 8:06 pm

      5 stars
      Can’t wait to try this salsa , looks like another great HHH. recipe, and looking forward to the new HHH.
      slow cooker recipe book due for release this autumn.

      Reply
    3. Sharon

      August 10, 2018 at 7:53 pm

      5 stars
      I agree with your analogy about salsa, perfect description and a must have for any meal or alongside a margarita. This looks great!

      Reply
    4. Shanika

      August 10, 2018 at 1:11 pm

      5 stars
      Nothing like a good salsa and some chips! The perfect summer snack, especially for a crowd! Delish!

      Reply
    5. Lisa | Garlic & Zest

      August 10, 2018 at 1:02 pm

      5 stars
      I would need bags of tortilla chips and cold beer -- because that salsa looks awesome!

      Reply
    6. Patty

      August 10, 2018 at 12:44 pm

      5 stars
      I'm like you and can't stop eating a good salsa, I love how easy and flavorful sounds your recipe, looking forward to trying it!

      Reply
    7. Neli Howard

      August 10, 2018 at 12:29 pm

      5 stars
      This sounds fantastic! Looks tasty! This recipe is perfect for me and my family. Thank you!

      Reply
    8. danielle wolter

      August 10, 2018 at 11:45 am

      5 stars
      I've never made salsa with canned tomatoes before! I'm totally going to have to try because it sounds easier than fresh tomatoes!!

      Reply
    9. Pam Greer

      August 09, 2018 at 8:45 pm

      5 stars
      I love that you used canned tomatoes! Making it so easy to make this year round! Perfect for our margarita on Saturday!

      Reply
    10. Andrea @ Cooking with Mamma C

      August 09, 2018 at 8:25 pm

      5 stars
      Using canned plum tomatoes is brilliant! I love how easy this recipe is.

      Reply
    11. Annissa

      August 09, 2018 at 7:48 pm

      5 stars
      This recipe sounds so delicious and love that this is very easy to make! Looks amazing!

      Reply
    12. Chris Collins

      August 09, 2018 at 7:39 pm

      5 stars
      This salsa looks top notch! Can't wait to give the recipe a go this weekend!! :)

      Reply
    13. Claudia Lamascolo

      August 09, 2018 at 7:02 pm

      5 stars
      I am such a big fan of salsa and chips these restaurant style must be over the top addicting!

      Reply
    14. Shashi at SavorySpin

      August 09, 2018 at 3:27 pm

      5 stars
      You might find this crazy but I've never thought to use canned tomatoes in salsa - and I can imagine how good this salsa is! Delicious!

      Reply
    15. Jessie

      August 09, 2018 at 3:08 pm

      5 stars
      Yum! I love a good salsa and lets put these garden veggies to work! Looks great!

      Reply
    16. Traci

      August 09, 2018 at 3:06 pm

      5 stars
      Everyone needs a restaurant salsa in their back pocket. Can't tell you how many times I've made it for parties at the last minute :) Yours is gorgeous...just pinned!

      Reply
    17. Jenn

      August 09, 2018 at 2:54 pm

      5 stars
      I have a major chips and salsa addiction and this looks amazing! Beautiful photos and I love how easy the recipe is using canned tomatoes! Definitely will be trying this!

      Reply
    18. Julia

      August 09, 2018 at 2:45 pm

      5 stars
      I totally agree with you about the canned tomatoes. The cheap ones have barely any taste! Love this simple recipe! :)

      Reply
    19. Michelle Murray

      October 11, 2014 at 12:23 pm

      5 stars
      I am such a big fan of nachos, I could eat them all day. They look yummy too x

      Reply
      • Dannii

        October 13, 2014 at 4:32 pm

        They are delicious, aren't they!

        Reply
    20. Katie @ Daily Cup of Kate

      October 11, 2014 at 2:21 am

      5 stars
      This is perfect timing! I just picked the last of my tomatoes from the garden and made it a goal this weekend to make salsa. Totally making this- thanks girl!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        October 13, 2014 at 4:33 pm

        I'm so jealous. We didn't have any tomatoes in our garden this year.

        Reply
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    Established in 2011, Hungry Healthy Happy has become one of the UK's most popular food blogs, with two successful recipe books published.

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