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Roasted Fresno Salsa

Recipes

This roasted Fresno salsa blends smoky peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and lime into a bold, flavorful salsa with just the right amount of heat. Perfect for chips, tacos, grilled meats, or mixed with avocado for a creamy twist.

Ingredients

    • 6–8 Fresno chiles (stems removed; leave seeds for heat or remove for milder salsa)

    • 2 medium tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened work well)

    • 3 cloves garlic (unpeeled)

    • 1/4 medium white onion (peeled)

    • 1 tbsp olive oil

    • 1–2 tbsp fresh lime juice (to taste)

    • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

    • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 tsp)

      Directions

      1. Roast the peppers and tomato:

        • Heat a comal, dry cast iron skillet, or use your broiler. We mexican comal which is a traditional flat griddle used throughout Mexico for cooking tortillas, toasting chiles, roasting vegetables, and preparing ingredients for salsas.

        • Add the Fresno chiles, tomatoes, garlic (in skin), and onion. Note onion can be added fresh or slightly sauteed.

        • Roast, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred (about 8–10 minutes).

        • Place your roasted pepper in sealed bag or container and allow them to steam for at least 15 minutes or until cool.

      2. Cool & prep:

        • Place your roasted peppers in a selaed bag or container (glass or plastic) and allow them to steam.

        • Let everything cool slightly.

        • Peel garlic cloves and remove tomato skins if desired.

        • Remove chili stems and skins (and seeds for less heat, if preferred).

      3. Blend:

        • Add all roasted ingredients to a blender or food processor.

        • Add lime juice, cilantro (if using), and salt.

        • Pulse to your desired texture—chunky or smooth.

      4. Taste & adjust:

        • Add more salt or lime juice as needed.

        • Let sit for 15 minutes to let flavors develop (optional but recommended).

        • Place in refrigerator 1 h to chill salsa

      Serving Ideas:

      • With chips – Tasty affordable appetizer for summer parties!

      • On tacos or grilled meats

      • For an extra punch of flavor and a creamy texture, stir the finished salsa into freshly mashed avocado just before serving. The avocado mellows the heat while enhancing the roasted flavors of the salsa.