Taste of Summer

ortilla chips with fresh salsa is one of my favorite snack foods. I acquired a recipe from a co-worker years ago and though mine never turns out exactly like hers, it’s always delicious and virtually fool-proof.

It calls for fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion and cilantro-a leafy herb that looks an awful lot like flat leaf parsley-and it’s all blended together in a flavorful mix of freshness! It’s simple, healthy and delicious!

I recall my first attempt being a complete disaster as I put everything in a blender and just let it rip. Looking back, I think my ratio of ingredients was a little out of whack as well, but nonetheless, be sure to pulse the ingredients to the desired consistency-or else you may be in danger of creating a tomato smoothie instead. 

My favorite way to enjoy salsa is by breaking open a big bag of tortilla chips, preferably Tostitos brand Roasted Garlic & Black Bean Artisan chips, and digging in! Nothing beats the crunchy chip and juicy salsa combination!

I once read that in Mexico, there is no such thing as the chip & dip style of eating salsa that we enjoy here in the states. They use it as a sauce or condiment in conjunction with a meal like we use ketchup or gravy. That’s amazing to me given how wildly popular it is here. In America, that’s how it’s done! 

Ready-to-eat jar sauces used to be a staple in our pantry before we discovered the fresh varieties in the refrigerated sections. I do enjoy the fruity concoctions like peach or cherry salsa with blue chips but fresh is always fresher in my book. 

Right now, black bean & corn salsa is the out-the-box flavor of the month for my crew. Though this recipe is a traditional tomato version, it can be easily used as a base to create countless flavor combinations. Be sure to check out the Helpful Hints section for tips on fun ways to enjoy your salsa.

Bon Appetit!

Helpful Hints

• Always go for an all-natural variety tortilla chip made with just corn, oil, and a little salt. All those additives and artificial ingredients are just unnecessary and unhealthy. Garden Fresh is a local company that is widely available around the metropolitan area, available salt-free if desired and they make salsa as well that can be found in the refrigerated section.
• Control the heat by avoiding the seeds of your peppers. Jar jalapenos can be substituted  for fresh ones, if desired. I find that the fresh garlic can add a degree of spiciness to the mixture if the cloves are on the large side, so tone it down accordingly for a milder sauce.
• Stir in chopped English cucumber or zucchini for a super garden fresh medley or add pineapple for a sweet & tangy kick.

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