Description
This vibrant Roasted Tomato Salsa recipe offers a smoky, flavorful twist on classic salsa by roasting a variety of fresh vegetables before blending them into a deliciously smooth, spicy condiment. Perfect for dipping or adding a zesty kick to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 15-20 medium tomatoes (6 to 7 lbs, halved)
- 5-10 jalapeno peppers or serrano peppers (halved and seeded)
- 1 red or green bell pepper (quartered and seeded, optional)
- 2 medium yellow onions (peeled and quartered)
- 1 head of garlic (about 10 cloves, peeled)
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 medium bunch of cilantro
- 1 tablespoon fine sea salt (plus extra to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange halved tomatoes cut-side-up on a rimmed baking sheet. On a second rimmed baking sheet, arrange halved jalapenos (or serranos), quartered bell pepper if using, quartered onions, and peeled garlic cloves.
- Roast Vegetables: Place both baking sheets in the oven and bake for 25 minutes at 375°F or until the tomatoes and onions become soft and tender.
- Broil for Charred Flavor: Move the oven rack to the highest position and switch the oven to broil. Broil each baking sheet for an additional 3-5 minutes until the tops of the peppers are nicely charred, checking frequently to avoid burning.
- Cool and Blend: Allow the roasted vegetables to cool slightly. Transfer them to a food processor along with one bunch of cilantro, 1 tablespoon of sea salt, and any tomato juices collected on the baking sheets. Blend in two batches if necessary until smooth but still slightly textured. Combine batches and adjust seasoning with extra salt if needed.
- Chill and Store: Let the salsa cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months to preserve freshness and flavor.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker salsa, discard some of the tomato juice before blending.
- Adjust the number and type of peppers to control the level of spiciness.
- Using fresh, ripe tomatoes yields the best flavor.
- This salsa can be served as a dip, topping for tacos, or condiment for grilled meats.
- Freezing the salsa in ice cube trays is an easy way to store small portions for later use.
