Tomatillo Salsa Verde

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

A vibrant and flavorful salsa made from fresh tomatillos, perfect for dipping or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Olivia

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-22T21:43:28.386Z

Discover the fresh and tangy flavor of Tomatillo Salsa Verde, a staple in Mexican cuisine that brightens up any dish. With its unique tartness from tomatillos and a hint of spice, this salsa is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh and vibrant flavors that enhance any meal
  • Easy to make with minimal ingredients
  • Versatile - perfect for chips, tacos, or grilled meats

The Freshness of Tomatillos

Tomatillos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their unique tart flavor and vibrant green color. Unlike traditional tomatoes, tomatillos are covered in a papery husk that needs to be removed before cooking. When roasted, they develop a smoky sweetness that perfectly balances their natural acidity. This versatility makes them an excellent base for salsas, sauces, and even soups.

In addition to their delicious taste, tomatillos are also packed with nutrients. They are low in calories and high in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that help fight inflammation. By incorporating tomatillos into your meals, you not only enhance flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your dishes, making every bite more beneficial.

Perfect Pairings

Tomatillo salsa verde is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re dipping tortilla chips, drizzling it over tacos, or using it as a marinade for grilled meats, this salsa brings a burst of flavor that elevates any meal. Its bright acidity complements rich foods beautifully, making it a must-have condiment at your next gathering.

For a delightful twist, try adding tomatillo salsa to scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos for a zesty morning boost. You can also use it as a dressing for fresh salads or grain bowls, adding a refreshing kick that enhances the overall taste. The possibilities are endless, making this salsa a staple in your kitchen.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

Once you’ve made your tomatillo salsa verde, proper storage is key to maintaining its fresh taste. Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to one week. The flavors may even deepen over time, making it a delicious addition to your meals throughout the week.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the salsa. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of tomatillo salsa verde anytime you desire, even if it's not tomatillo season.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Ingredients for Tomatillo Salsa Verde

  • 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1-2 jalapeños, stems removed (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Roast the Tomatillos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tomatillos, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for about 10 minutes until tomatillos are soft and slightly charred.

Blend the Ingredients

Transfer the roasted tomatillos, onion, and garlic to a blender. Add jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl and enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Serving Suggestions

This tomatillo salsa verde is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips for a classic snack or appetizer. The tangy flavor is perfect for cutting through the saltiness of the chips, making it a hit at any gathering. You can also use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, where the zesty notes enhance the meat's natural flavors.

For taco night, offer tomatillo salsa as a condiment alongside other toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. It can also complement roasted vegetables or bean dishes, adding a fresh layer of flavor that ties the meal together. Don't forget to experiment with it on breakfast burritos or even as a vibrant dressing for salads.

Variations and Customizations

While this salsa verde recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a smokier flavor, consider adding a few roasted poblano peppers or chipotle in adobo sauce. If you prefer a milder salsa, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds before blending. This allows you to create a version that everyone can enjoy.

You can also experiment with herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can introduce new dimensions to the salsa. For a sweeter touch, try incorporating diced mango or pineapple, which can balance the tartness of the tomatillos beautifully. The beauty of this salsa lies in its adaptability, making it easy to create your perfect blend.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green tomatoes instead of tomatillos?

While they provide a different flavor, green tomatoes can be a substitute in a pinch, but the taste will not be the same.

→ How long does this salsa last in the fridge?

Tomatillo Salsa Verde can last up to a week in a sealed container in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze this salsa?

Yes, you can freeze the salsa in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Is this salsa spicy?

The spiciness depends on the amount of jalapeños used. Adjust according to your preference.

Tomatillo Salsa Verde

A vibrant and flavorful salsa made from fresh tomatillos, perfect for dipping or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Olivia

Recipe Type: World Cuisine Creations

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Tomatillo Salsa Verde

  1. 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
  2. 1 small onion, quartered
  3. 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  4. 1-2 jalapeños, stems removed (adjust for spice preference)
  5. 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  6. Juice of 1 lime
  7. Salt to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tomatillos, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for about 10 minutes until tomatillos are soft and slightly charred.

Step 02

Transfer the roasted tomatillos, onion, and garlic to a blender. Add jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 03

Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl and enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 70 kcal
  • Total Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 2g