There’s nothing quite like the bold, fresh flavors of Chili’s Copycat Salsa, and now you can whip it up in just 5 minutes. This vibrant blend of juicy tomatoes, zesty lime, and a hint of spice delivers a perfectly balanced bite that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re dipping crispy tortilla chips or spooning it over tacos, this salsa is a game-changer for any snack or meal.
With its smooth texture and refreshing tang, this salsa is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C and fiber. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s quick to prepare and impossible to resist. Once you taste it, you’ll wonder why you ever bought salsa from the store again!
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 29 ounces whole tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 ounces each, drained)
- 4 whole jalapeños (canned, not pickled; adjust for spice preference)
- 1 yellow onion (quartered for easy blending)
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt (or substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder + ½ teaspoon salt)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (adds a warm, earthy flavor)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (balances acidity; optional for a sweeter salsa)
- 2 teaspoons lime juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Drain the canned tomatoes and jalapeños. Quarter the yellow onion.
- Combine in a food processor or blender: Add the tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, garlic salt, salt, cumin, sugar, and lime juice to the appliance.
- Puree until smooth: Blend the mixture on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the salsa reaches your desired consistency. (For a chunkier salsa, pulse briefly instead of blending fully.)
- Taste and adjust: Check the seasoning and add more salt, lime juice, or sugar if needed.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy with tortilla chips, or refrigerate for up to 5 days for even better flavor.
Spice It Up: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your salsa to the next level by adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for a creamy contrast. For a smoky twist, try mixing in a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, top with fresh cilantro or diced avocado for a burst of flavor and color.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This salsa isn’t just for chips! Serve it alongside grilled chicken, tacos, or even scrambled eggs for a zesty kick. It also makes a fantastic topping for nachos or a refreshing dip for veggie sticks. For a party platter, pair it with guacamole and queso for a crowd-pleasing trio.
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it separates, simply give it a quick stir before serving. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and blend briefly to restore its smooth texture.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize your salsa by swapping canned jalapeños for fresh ones (remove seeds for less heat) or adding a handful of fresh cilantro for a herby twist. For a chunkier texture, pulse the ingredients briefly instead of pureeing. You can also experiment with fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Quick and Easy: Time-Saving Tips
To save time, prep your onion and jalapeños ahead of time and store them in the fridge. If you’re in a rush, use pre-minced garlic instead of garlic salt. For a no-fuss cleanup, blend everything directly in a large mason jar if your immersion blender fits—it’s a game-changer!
Chili’s Copycat Salsa Recipe
Equipment
- food processor or blender
Ingredients
- 29 ounces whole tomatoes, 2 (14.5 ounce cans), drained
- 4 whole jalapenos, canned, (not pickled)
- 1 yellow onion, quartered
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients together into a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Serve with tortilla chips.