Cherry salsa recipe is the unexpected hero of summer gatherings, bursting with vibrant colors and a sweet-tart flavor that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a chip slathered in this zesty concoction, where juicy cherries mingle with zesty lime and spicy jalapeños. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth, perfect for those lazy afternoons spent lounging in the sun with friends and family. For more inspiration, check out this tasty dessert ideas recipe.
As the sun sets and you gather around the grill, this cherry salsa recipe shines as the ultimate accompaniment to grilled meats or as a stand-alone snack that gets everyone talking (and maybe even dancing). The first time I made it, my friends were skeptical. “Cherry salsa? Really?” But after one bite, they were convinced; it’s now a staple at all our barbecues. Trust me, you’ll want this bright dish ready for your next get-together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cherry salsa recipe is incredibly simple to prepare; you’ll whip it up faster than you can say “party time.” The explosion of flavors balances sweetness and spice beautifully, making it an instant crowd-pleaser
- Its eye-catching colors will elevate any picnic or potluck table, ensuring all eyes are on your dish
- Plus, it’s versatile; use it as a topping for grilled chicken or enjoy it straight from the bowl with tortilla chips
I once served this cherry salsa at a picnic, and my friends’ reactions ranged from surprise to outright delight—a memory I cherish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cherries: Choose ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor and color; remove the pits carefully.
Red Onion: Finely chop for added crunch and a hint of sharpness; red onions are sweeter than their white counterparts.
Jalapeño Peppers: Adjust the heat level by using less or more jalapeño; removing seeds reduces spiciness.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness; feel free to substitute parsley if you’re not a fan.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds necessary acidity to balance sweetness.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip this step!
Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Salsa Recipe
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing your cherries thoroughly. Pit them using a cherry pitter or knife, then chop them into small pieces to maximize flavor integration.
Chop Vegetables: Dice the red onion finely and mince the jalapeño peppers. If you prefer milder salsa, remove some seeds from the jalapeño before chopping.
Add Flavor Elements: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cherries, red onion, jalapeño peppers, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to incorporate all ingredients without bruising them.
Squeeze Lime Juice: Drizzle freshly squeezed lime juice over the mixture. This brightens up every ingredient while adding zestiness that complements sweetness perfectly.
Season It Right: Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the salsa according to taste preferences. Gently mix everything again until well combined.
Chill Before Serving: Let your cherry salsa chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully together for an unforgettable experience. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful cherry salsa recipe—perfect for dipping or drizzling!
You Must Know
- This cherry salsa recipe not only brightens up your meals but also introduces a delicious twist to traditional salsas
- The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a perfect companion for grilled meats or as a dip with tortilla chips
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by chopping your cherries, onions, and jalapeños before mixing all ingredients together for a balanced flavor. Allow resting time to let the flavors mingle beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding lime juice for an extra zing or cilantro for freshness. You can also experiment with different types of peppers for heat levels that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cherry salsa in an airtight container in the fridge. It lasts about three days, but fresh is best; no reheating needed here!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance this cherry salsa recipe, choose ripe cherries for the best sweetness
- Avoid over-mixing; you want a chunky texture
- For a milder taste, deseed the jalapeños before adding them to the mix
Sometimes I bring this cherry salsa to summer barbecues, and it never fails to impress! Friends rave about its unique flavor and always ask for the recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for this cherry salsa recipe?
Yes, but fresh cherries yield better flavor and texture in your salsa.
What can I serve with cherry salsa?
This cherry salsa pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a dip with tortilla chips.
How long does cherry salsa last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it lasts about three days in an airtight container; enjoy fresh!
Cherry Salsa
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
Description
Cherry salsa is a refreshing twist on traditional dips, perfect for summer gatherings. This vibrant dish combines juicy cherries with zesty lime, crunchy red onion, and spicy jalapeños, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether served as a topping for grilled meats or paired with tortilla chips, this cherry salsa will be the star of your next barbecue.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash cherries thoroughly and pit them, then chop into small pieces.
- Chop the vegetables: Finely dice the red onion and mince the jalapeño.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cherries, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Toss gently.
- Add lime juice: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture to enhance flavor.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and black pepper; mix gently until combined.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
