| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 45 | 2g | 0.3g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 2g | 1g | 0.4g |
When it comes to dishes that offer a burst of freshness, the Chayote and Tomato Salsa holds a special place in my heart. Living in Miami has blessed me with access to a multitude of vibrant vegetables and fruits all year round. With my Cuban and Spanish roots, I relish creating recipes that not only bring together distinct flavors but also reflect the colorful culture of the Caribbean and Spain.
A Dance of Flavors
Chayote, a squash-like vegetable often found in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, is the star of this salsa. Its mild taste and crisp texture wonderfully complement the juicy tomatoes and the zingy lime juice. By adding a finely chopped jalapeño pepper, you get a lovely kick of heat that takes this dish to another level without overwhelming its refreshing essence.
One of the things I adore about this recipe is its versatility. The Chayote and Tomato Salsa can stand alone as a delightful dip for your favorite tortilla chips. But it also shines as a topping for grilled fish, chicken, or even tacos, giving these dishes an extra layer of flavor and a hint of crunch.
Health Benefits
This salsa isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s also packed with health benefits. Chayote is low in calories but high in fiber, making it great for digestion. It’s also a source of essential vitamins like Vitamin C and folate. Tomatoes add their own punch of nutrients, including antioxidants like lycopene that are known for their heart health benefits. Fresh cilantro not only brings a burst of herby goodness but also offers antioxidants and essential oils that have anti-inflammatory properties.
The use of olive oil in this recipe adds healthy fats, while lime juice introduces a shot of Vitamin C. All in all, this Chayote and Tomato Salsa is a guilt-free way to enjoy a tasty snack or add some flair to your meals.
This dish has similarities to traditional Mexican salsa fresca or pico de gallo, yet stands out due to the unique addition of chayote. If you’re a fan of classic Latin American flavors, you might also enjoy pico de gallo or a zesty tomato and avocado salsa.
What You’ll Need
- 2 medium chayotes, diced
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Method
Step One
Wash and peel the chayotes. Dice them into small cubes.
Step Two
Wash the tomatoes and dice them into small pieces.
Step Three
Peel and finely chop the red onion.
Step Four
Wash and finely chop the bell pepper.
Step Five
If using, wash and finely chop the jalapeño pepper. Remove seeds for less heat.
Step Six
Chop the fresh cilantro.
Step Seven
In a large bowl, combine the diced chayote, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, chopped bell pepper, and chopped jalapeño pepper.
Step Eight
Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl.
Step Nine
Drizzle the lime juice and olive oil over the mixture.
Step Ten
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step Eleven
Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
Step Twelve
Cover and let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Step Thirteen
Serve as a side dish, salad, or with tortilla chips. Enjoy your Chayote and Tomato Salsa!
