| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 100 | 3g | 0g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 6g | 2g | 0.25g |
There’s something truly mesmerizing about my Cactus Pear Salsa – a fruity fiesta that dapples in unconventional ingredients yet doesn’t shy away from a flare of traditional zing. It’s a salsa that paints with the bold colors of the Pacific Northwest and dances with the rhythm of Japanese culinary expertise. It’s quite a mouth-watering fusion of my multi-cultural culinary life, wrapped in a harness of exemplary health advantages. 
A Symphony Of Flavors
At first glance, it seems almost humdrum – a garden-variety salsa. Yet, it’s the surprise that awaits your palate that sets this dish apart. Resembling a traditional Mexican salsa, this dish dabbles in the unconventional by substituting regular tomatoes with the succulent cactus pears. True to its name, it draws from the earthy, juicy feel of cactus fruits married tastefully with the tangy bursts of limes and subtle heat of jalapeno.
My Love for This Recipe
As someone bred in Seattle and deeply rooted in my Japanese heritage, there’s something incredibly intimate about this recipe. It’s the ‘homecoming’ dish that fuses my Pacific Northwest upbringing’s electric palette with the delicate, exacting balance of flavors I’ve learned to appreciate in Japan. More than just a recipe, it’s a culinary journey that bridges continents and cultures.
The Power-Packed Cactus Pear Salsa
Not only is this salsa a riot of flavors, but it’s also a wellness treasure-trove. The starring ingredient – the cactus pear, is a powerhouse of antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamin C, amongst other nutrients. Combined with the heart-healthy olive oil and the immunity-boosting properties of citrus, bell pepper, and onions, this salsa champions good health with every dip.
If you want to turn your simple meals into an adventurous fiesta or looking for new salsa to pair with your grilled fish tacos, Cactus Pear Salsa is the answer. Equally delectable with crispy tortilla chips, or livening up your favorite grilled meats, its versatility morphs it from a simple appetizer to a dynamic sauce. Give this salsa a whirl, and it’ll surely be the talk of your next party or family dinner!
What You’ll Need
- 6 cactus pears
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 bell pepper, preferably red, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips for serving
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the cactus pears. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the spines and carefully peel the skin from each fruit, revealing the juicy pulp inside. Cut the pulp into small bite-sized pieces.
Step Two
Once the cactus pears have been prepared, finely chop the red onion, jalapeno, cilantro and red bell pepper.
Step Three
Take a large mixing bowl and combine the chopped cactus pears, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and bell pepper.
Step Four
Add the olive oil, lime juice to the mixture and stir until all the ingredients are nicely mixed together.
Step Five
Season your salsa with salt and pepper according to your taste. You might also want to taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
Step Six
Let your salsa rest for a while to allow the flavors to blend together. Ideally, you should refrigerate the salsa for at least an hour before serving.
Step Seven
Scoop the salsa with some tortilla chips and enjoy! The cactus pear salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
