Cantaloupe Salsa
A vibrant and refreshing Cantaloupe Salsa that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, ideal for brightening up grilled proteins or enjoying with tortilla chips.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Cantaloupe: Cut the cantaloupe in half, scoop out the seeds, peel the rind, and finely dice the flesh into approximately 1/4-inch pieces. You should have about 2 cups.
Prepare the Aromatics: Finely dice the red onion into small, consistent pieces. For the jalapeño, slice it lengthwise, remove the seeds and white pith for less heat, then finely mince. Chop the fresh cilantro.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the diced cantaloupe, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
Dress the Salsa: Halve the lime and squeeze its juice over the combined ingredients. Add the fine sea salt.
Mix and Chill: Gently stir all ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (more salt, lime, or a tiny pinch of sugar if the cantaloupe isn't very sweet).
Serve: For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salsa for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose Ripe Cantaloupe: Select a cantaloupe that feels heavy for its size, has a sweet aroma at the stem end, and a slightly soft spot at the blossom end for optimal sweetness.
- 2Adjust Heat Level: For more heat, leave some jalapeño seeds or add a second jalapeño. For less heat, use only a small amount of the pepper's flesh or substitute with a milder pepper like bell pepper.
- 3Uniform Dice: Ensure all ingredients, especially the cantaloupe and red onion, are diced to a similar size for a balanced texture and flavor in every bite.
- 4Resting Time is Key: Allowing the salsa to chill for at least 15-30 minutes before serving significantly enhances the melding of flavors, making it taste even better.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Replace cantaloupe with mango, pineapple, or peaches for a different sweet and tangy profile.
Herb TwistHerb Twist
Substitute cilantro with fresh mint or basil for a unique aromatic touch, especially good with grilled fish or chicken.
Extra CrunchExtra Crunch
Add finely diced cucumber or bell pepper for additional texture and freshness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Cantaloupe and lime are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health, aids in iron absorption, and is crucial for collagen production.
Hydrating
Cantaloupe has a high water content (over 90%), contributing significantly to hydration and supporting overall bodily functions, including nutrient transport and temperature regulation.
Digestive Health
The fiber found in cantaloupe and other fresh vegetables in this salsa aids in healthy digestion, promotes regularity, and can help maintain a feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this salsa is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. The cantaloupe can become watery and lose its crispness over time.
