| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 70 | 3g | 0.5g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 2g | 0.2g |
Gazing upon the vibrant colors that dance across this Peruvian Pepper and Tomato Salsa is enough to make your mouth water. Fresh, zesty, and delectably tangy, this salsa is one of my all-time favorite recipes. Its concept is a slight deviation from my regular New England seafood and Irish comfort food, offering a delightful foray into South American cuisine and reminding us of the broadness and diversity of the culinary world.
The Magic behind the Dish
The star ingredients of this salsa are none other than Peruvian Yellow Peppers, also known as aji amarillo. They add a dash of spiciness, along with the traditional warm undertones of Peruvian cuisine, having been a mainstay in their food culture since ancient times. The blend of tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice provide a perfect counterbalance, creating a burst of freshness with each spoonful.
A Recipe for Health
But this salsa is not just about its flavor profile. Peruvian Pepper and Tomato Salsa is packed with health benefits as well. The yellow peppers and tomatoes are chock-full of Vitamin C, acting as powerful antioxidants that boost your immune system. The olive oil in this salsa is a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the garlic and onions can help lower your cholesterol and reduce blood pressure. And let’s not forget about the cilantro, which has unique properties that assist in the detoxification of heavy metals from your body.
If you’re seeking a healthier alternative to regular dips, this salsa is perfect. It pairs excellently with dishes like Peruvian-style roasted chicken, tortilla chips, and even your favorite grilled fish recipies. However, its vibrant taste and refreshing qualities make it a delightful experience even when enjoyed on its own.
As my grandparents often reminded me, the best recipes aren’t just about good flavor—they bring with them a dash of culture, a sprinkling of history, and a generous helping of health benefits. This concoction is a delightful reminder of that wisdom, offering a cross-continental culinary journey in every mouthful. Hence, it’s no wonder Laura, my fiancée, and I enjoy sharing this delightful Peruvian Pepper and Tomato Salsa, not just with each other, but especially with our little one. Who knew salsa could be such a family tradition?
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of chopped Peruvian yellow peppers (aji amarillo)
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing your ingredients: Dice your tomatoes, chop your Peruvian yellow peppers and fresh cilantro, finely chop your red onion, and mince your garlic.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and chopped Peruvian yellow peppers. Add in the chopped red onion, ensuring to mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Step Three
Next, add in the chopped fresh cilantro to your mixture. Stir well to incorporate the cilantro throughout the salsa.
Step Four
Now, add in your minced garlic. Stir well to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the salsa.
Step Five
Squeeze in the fresh lime juice, making sure to distribute it evenly throughout the salsa. This gives your salsa a zesty, fresh flavor.
Step Six
Drizzle your salsa with olive oil. This not only adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but also helps to bond your ingredients together.
Step Seven
Finally, season your salsa with salt and ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is spread evenly throughout. If required, adjust the seasoning to taste.
Step Eight
Your Peruvian Pepper and Tomato Salsa is ready to be served. Enjoy it with chips or as a garnish to your favorite Latin dishes.
