Put on Your Dancing Shoes

It's time for a little salsa.

Okay, so we're not really going to dance. But with a bowl full of yummy salsa, you just might want to.

Here in Texas, salsa is a staple. Some is mild, some will send you running for the nearest fire extinguisher. Some is superb, some...not so much. But there's one thing salsa always is and that's easy to make.

Are you ready?

Good, then let's hit it.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 - 10 oz. can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel, I like the mild version)
• 1 - 14 oz can whole tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/8 cup chopped onion
• 1-2 cloves garlic, chopped
• Jalapeno, diced (I used a half of one, but was told by my crew I needed to add more)
• a nice-sized pinch of ground cumin
• a bigger pinch of salt
• a pinch of sugar
• the juice of half a lime (except sometimes limes aren't very juicy, in which case I use add the juice of the whole lime)

Dump your tomatoes, juice and all, into a food processor or blender, then throw in everything else.

 

Pulse a few times.

Not quite there, so I scrape down the sides and pulse a few more times.

 

Once you get it to a consistency you like, sample and adjust seasonings, if needed.

Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Pour into a bowl and serve with tortilla chips or whatever you like.

 

This is great for everyday or a party. And if you want to share with someone you love....

It makes a great gift. Maybe add a ribbon around the lid. (Mine was just going into the fridge, so no point wasting perfectly good ribbon)

 

The nice thing is that you can adjust it to your personal taste. Like it a little hotter? Add more jalapeno or start with original Rotel (or both). Like more garlic? Go for it.

 

And now, it's time to dance. This little fella has some awesome salsa moves.