| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 86 | 2g | 0g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 2g | 2g | 0.39g |
One of my favorite recipes to whip up when I’m looking for a refreshingly tangy and spicy treat is the Spicy Celery Leaf and Tomato Salsa. Drawing inspiration from both my Midwestern upbringing and my love for fresh produce, this dish perfectly encapsulates my love for wholesome, nutritious ingredients. What makes this dish truly special is the unique addition of celery leaves, adding an aromatic sharpness that balances out the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes.
Celebrating Farm-to-Table Freshness and Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
Each ingredient that goes into the Spicy Celery Leaf and Tomato Salsa tells a story of farm-to-table freshness that I deeply appreciate. The lively flavors of freshly picked cherry tomatoes, crunch of the red onion, mellow kick of jalapeno, and citrusy goodness of lime juice all contribute to this sensory experience. But it’s more than a story of delectable flavors – there is a rich tale of nutrition too.
Tomatoes, for example, are packed with lycopene that is known to have multiple health benefits. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate. The celery leaves are equally beneficial, housing an impressive array of nutrients including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. Not to mention, the olive oil brings a dose of healthy fats to the table.
Culinary Pairings and Comparisons
The beauty of Spicy Celery Leaf and Tomato Salsa doesn’t end at its standalone flavor profile, however. This salsa is a versatile companion to an array of dishes. It would pair delightfully with grilled chicken, adding a tangy kick to the smoky flavors, or simply as an appetizer with a side of whole wheat chips for a healthy, tasty snacking option.
If you enjoy the popular Mexican Pico de Gallo, you will find this salsa to be a flavorful cousin, with an added zest from the celery leaves and a bit more heat, courtesy of the cayenne pepper.
There’s a reason I adore this salsa – it’s bright, it’s fresh, it speaks volumes of farm-to-table ethos, and encompasses a powerful punch of wellness. Eating a balanced diet doesn’t have to be bland or boring, and this Spicy Celery Leaf and Tomato Salsa is a testament to that! So grab your freshest produce and let’s fire up a batch of this tangy delight.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halibut or chopped full-sized tomatoes
- 1 cup finely chopped celery leaves
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash your tomatoes, celery leaves, red onion, and jalapeno peppers thoroughly. Finely chop the tomatoes, celery leaves, red onion, and jalapeno peppers, making sure to remove the seeds from the peppers. Also mince the garlic cloves.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, celery leaves, red onion, jalapeno peppers, and minced garlic. Mix them until they are evenly distributed.
Step Three
Add in the fresh lime juice to the mixture. This adds acidity to the salsa and brings out the flavours of the other ingredients.
Step Four
Now, incorporate the chopped fresh cilantro. This herb will give your salsa a refreshing and herby touch.
Step Five
Add your seasonings to the salsa mixture. This includes the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optionally, the cayenne pepper if you would like your salsa to have an extra kick.
Step Six
Finally, drizzle in the tablespoon of olive oil. This will add a bit of richness to your salsa and help combine all the flavors together.
Step Seven
Mix the salsa thoroughly, making sure all the ingredients are evenly spread. Let it sit for a couple of hours in the fridge before serving for the flavors to meld together and intensify.
