01 -
First things first, get all your beautiful produce ready. Wash those Roma tomatoes, the red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. I usually lay them out on a clean towel, feeling a bit like a produce artist. Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces – not too chunky, but not mush either, we want some texture here. This is where I sometimes get a little messy, tomato juice everywhere, but it's part of the fun!
02 -
Next, tackle that red onion. Finely dice it, really small, so it blends into the salsa without being overwhelming. Same goes for the jalapeño; remove the seeds and ribs for less heat, or leave a few in if you're feeling spicy. Mince your garlic cloves super fine. I've learned the hard way that big chunks of raw onion or garlic can be a bit of a shock, so take your time on this step.
03 -
Now for the cilantro! Give it a good chop. I like it finely chopped so it distributes evenly throughout the dip, giving that burst of freshness in every bite. I swear, the smell of fresh cilantro instantly transports me to a sunny patio. Don't over-chop it though, we don't want a paste. Just a nice, fluffy pile of green goodness.
04 -
Time to bring it all together! Gently scoop your diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro into a medium-sized mixing bowl. This is where the magic starts to happen, seeing all those vibrant colors together. I always take a moment here to admire the fresh ingredients before mixing, honestly, it's just so pretty.
05 -
Now for the flavor powerhouses! Squeeze in the fresh lime juice. I usually start with one lime, then taste and add more if needed. Sprinkle in the sea salt and a pinch of black pepper. Give it all a good, gentle stir to combine. You'll start to smell that incredible, zesty aroma taking over your kitchen. This is where you can adjust to your liking – more salt, more lime, more heat? Go for it!
06 -
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and pop your Fresh Garden Salsa into the fridge for at least 15-30 minutes. This chilling time is *crucial*, honestly. It allows all those amazing flavors to meld and deepen. When you pull it out, it'll be perfectly chilled and ready to serve with your favorite tortilla chips. The wait is tough, but it's so worth it for that incredible taste!