Description
This Nectarine Salsa recipe offers a fresh and vibrant summer twist on traditional salsa, combining juicy nectarines with spicy chili, tangy lime, and fresh cilantro for a delightful, easy-to-make condiment perfect for serving with chips, grilled meats, or as a topping for tacos.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits and Vegetables
- 3 ripe nectarines, diced (about 2 ½ cups)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red chili or jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: ½ teaspoon lime zest
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch sea salt, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup (if nectarines aren’t very sweet)
Instructions
- Prepare the Nectarines: Rinse and dry your nectarines thoroughly. Dice them into small, uniform cubes, keeping the skin on to retain color and nutrients. This creates the juicy foundation of your salsa.
- Prep the Other Ingredients: Finely dice the red onion, mince the chili or jalapeño (removing seeds if less heat is desired), and chop the fresh cilantro. If using lime zest, grate it now to infuse additional citrus flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, gently combine the diced nectarines, chopped onion, minced chili, lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir carefully to avoid mashing the fruit and to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste your salsa and tweak the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or lime juice for brightness, and if your nectarines are tart, incorporate a teaspoon of maple syrup to balance the flavors harmoniously.
- Rest and Serve: Serve the salsa immediately for a fresh bite, or chill it for 15 to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together for a richer taste experience.
Notes
- Leave the skin on the nectarines to add color and extra nutrients to the salsa.
- Adjust the heat level by removing or keeping the seeds in the chili or jalapeño.
- If nectarines are not very sweet, add maple syrup to balance acidity.
- Chilling the salsa enhances flavor melding but is optional.
- This salsa pairs well with grilled meats, fish, tacos, or as a dip with tortilla chips.
