Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Introduction
If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and zesty addition to your snack table or taco night, look no further than roasted tomatillo salsa verde. Bursting with tangy flavors and a smoky undertone, this salsa verde is easy to prepare and perfect for dipping, topping, or even as a unique marinade. Whether you’re entertaining guests or whipping up something for yourself, this recipe is a delicious and simple way to add a pop of flavor to any dish.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Fresh tomatillos – 1.5 lbs (approximately 10 tomatillos), husked and rinsed
White onion – 1 medium, peeled and quartered
Garlic cloves – 2, peeled
Jalapeño pepper – 1, sliced (you can adjust the spice level based on preference)
Fresh cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish, if desired)
Lime juice – 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed
Salt – 1 teaspoon or to taste
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon, for roasting
Prep Time
This delightful roasted tomatillo salsa verde requires minimal preparation. Start by husking and thoroughly rinsing the tomatillos to remove their sticky residue. Peel and quarter the onion, slice the jalapeño (removing seeds if you want less heat), and peel the garlic cloves. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the process both swift and enjoyable.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time:
Around 15 minutes
Total Time:
Approximately 25-30 minutes
Yield:
2 cups of salsa verde, serving around 4-6 people
By roasting the tomatillos, onion, garlic, and jalapeño, the flavors intensify to create a luscious salsa that’s perfect to enjoy with tortilla chips, spread over roasted meats, or drizzled onto tacos and enchiladas. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or elevating your weeknight dinner, this roasted tomatillo salsa verde will surely become a favorite recipe you’ll make time and time again.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatillos
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
– Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse them under warm water to remove any sticky residues.
– Pat the tomatillos dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup, and arrange the cleaned tomatillos in a single layer.
Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
– Add halved jalapeños, peeled garlic cloves, and chunks of white onion to the baking sheet with the tomatillos, arranging them evenly.
– Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the vegetables are soft, deformed, and slightly charred. Check after 10 minutes and rotate the vegetables if needed for even roasting.
Step 3: Blend the Salsa
– Transfer the roasted tomatillos, onions, garlic, and jalapeños into a blender or food processor.
– Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salt into the blender bowl.
– Blend until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Pulse briefly for a chunky salsa, or blend longer for a smoother salsa.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
– Taste the salsa verde and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add additional lime juice for more tanginess or extra salt for enhanced flavor if required.
Step 5: Serve
– Pour the salsa into a serving bowl or an airtight container if storing for later use.
– Serve immediately with tortilla chips, tacos, or your favorite Mexican dishes.
Notes
Tomatillos
– Choose firm, bright green tomatillos with tight-fitting husks for the best flavor.
Keep It Mild
– For a milder salsa, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before roasting. Alternatively, omit one or both peppers entirely for minimal heat.
Blend Texture
– Keep the salsa chunky by pulsing briefly, or blend longer for a smooth texture depending on your preferences.
Storage
– Store salsa verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors may intensify as it sits.
Freezing
– You can freeze salsa verde for longer storage. Once cooled, place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3–4 months.
Cook Techniques
Roasting the Tomatillos
Roasting tomatillos enhances their sweet and smoky flavor. Make sure to broil them until blackened spots appear on their surface.
Blending the Ingredients
Blend roasted tomatillos with other ingredients to create the perfect salsa texture—smooth but still slightly chunky.
Adjusting the Heat Level
You can control the spice by adjusting the number of jalapeño peppers used. Remove seeds for a milder taste.
FAQ
What are tomatillos?
Tomatillos, also known as husk tomatoes, are small green fruits with a tangy taste commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
Can I use raw tomatillos instead of roasting them?
Yes, raw tomatillos can be used, but roasting adds depth and a rich smoky flavor to the salsa.
How do I store the salsa verde after making it?
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze roasted tomatillo salsa verde?
Yes, the salsa can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months.
What can I serve with roasted tomatillo salsa verde?
The salsa pairs well with chips, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and even grilled meats or eggs.
Conclusion
Roasted tomatillo salsa verde is a vibrant, tangy, and fresh addition to your culinary repertoire. Its layers of flavors, thanks to the roasted tomatillos, peppers, and aromatic ingredients, make it perfect for dipping, topping, or enhancing other dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it with tortilla chips or using it as an ingredient in your favorite recipes, this homemade salsa is versatile and brimming with refreshing taste.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde
Use roasted tomatillo salsa verde as a tangy topper for grilled chicken for a refreshing meal idea.
Salsa Verde Enchiladas
Upgrade your classic enchiladas by replacing red enchilada sauce with the homemade salsa verde for a delicious spin.
Salsa Verde Tacos
Add roasted tomatillo salsa verde on tacos filled with grilled vegetables, beef, or pork for extra flavor.
Breakfast Eggs and Salsa Verde
Drizzle salsa verde on scrambled or fried eggs to give your morning a zesty kick.
Salsa Verde Rice Bowl
Mix salsa verde into rice bowls alongside proteins like chicken or shrimp, sautéed veggies, and a dollop of sour cream.
Roasted Vegetables with Salsa Verde
Pair the salsa with a medley of roasted vegetables for a healthy, flavorful side dish.
Salsa Verde as a Party Dip
Serve it as a standalone dip during gatherings with tortilla chips, crostini, or raw veggies.
Salsa Verde Pasta
Stir salsa verde into cooked pasta along with grilled chicken or shrimp for a quick and unique pasta dish.
