Simple Nectarine Salsa
This Simple Nectarine Salsa is a vibrant, fresh, and savory fruit salsa that perfectly balances sweet nectarines with a kick of jalapeño and tangy lime. It's an ideal accompaniment for grilled meats, seafood, or simply enjoyed with tortilla chips.
For 4 servings
Wash and dry the nectarines thoroughly. Pit them and dice into small, uniform pieces (approximately 1/4-inch cubes). Place the diced nectarines into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Finely chop the red onion. Mince the jalapeño, making sure to remove the seeds and white membrane for a medium spice level. For more heat, you can leave some seeds. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeño to the bowl with the nectarines.
Roughly chop the fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl with the other ingredients.
Squeeze the juice from one large lime directly into the bowl. Add the salt and black pepper.
Gently fold all ingredients together using a spoon or spatula until they are well combined. Be careful not to mash the delicate nectarine pieces.
Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for tang, more salt, or a tiny pinch of sugar if your nectarines are on the less sweet side.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salsa for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 30 minutes). This resting period allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more harmonious taste.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. This nectarine salsa is excellent with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish, pork, or even as a topping for tacos.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose ripe but firm nectarines for the best texture and flavor. They should be fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- 2To control the spice level, always remove the seeds and white membrane from the jalapeño for milder salsa. For extra heat, you can include a few seeds or even a second jalapeño.
- 3Prep ahead: While best served fresh, you can chop the nectarines, onion, and jalapeño an hour or two in advance. Store them separately and combine with lime juice and cilantro just before serving to maintain freshness.
- 4Don't overmix: Gently folding the ingredients prevents the nectarines from becoming mushy and helps maintain their texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruity Twist
Add 1/2 cup of diced mango or peach alongside the nectarines for an even more tropical flavor profile.
Creamy AdditionCreamy Addition
Fold in 1/2 cup of diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or basil for a different aromatic touch, especially if serving with lamb or a fresh salad.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Nectarines and lime juice are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Good Source of Fiber
Nectarines and red onion contribute dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
The combination of nectarines, jalapeños, and cilantro provides various antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare this salsa up to 2-3 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, but the nectarines might soften slightly over time.
