Zesty Kiwi & Avocado Salsa
A refreshingly vibrant and tangy salsa combining the natural sweetness of kiwi with the creamy richness of avocado, brightened by zesty lime and fresh cilantro.
For 4 servings
Prepare the kiwis: Peel the kiwis carefully and then dice them into small, uniform 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) cubes. Transfer the diced kiwi to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Prepare the avocado: Halve the ripe avocado, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Dice the avocado into similar 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) cubes and add it to the bowl with the kiwi.
Prepare the aromatics: Finely dice the red onion. If using, finely mince the jalapeño, ensuring to remove the seeds and white membranes for a milder heat, then add both to the bowl.
Combine with herbs and citrus: Add the freshly chopped cilantro to the bowl. Squeeze the juice from the medium lime directly over all the ingredients.
Season and gently mix: Sprinkle the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (if using) over the ingredients. Using a rubber spatula or a large spoon, gently fold all the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to mash the delicate avocado and kiwi.
Taste and serve: Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice for tang or salt to your preference. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness, or chill for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld slightly.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Gentle Mixing is Key: Always mix avocado-based salsas gently to prevent the avocado from becoming mushy. A rubber spatula or a large, flat spoon works best to preserve the texture of the fruit.
- 2Prevent Browning: To minimize avocado browning, ensure all avocado pieces are well-coated with lime juice. If storing for a short period, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa before refrigerating.
- 3Ripeness Matters: Use ripe but still firm kiwis and avocados. Overripe fruits will become mushy and lose their distinct texture, while underripe ones will lack flavor and be too hard.
- 4Uniform Dice for Best Bite: Dicing all ingredients to a similar size ensures a balanced bite in every spoonful and contributes to an appealing presentation.
Adapt it for your goals.
Tropical Twist
Add finely diced mango or pineapple for an extra layer of sweetness and a more pronounced tropical flavor profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Increase the amount of finely minced jalapeño, or for a different kind of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Herbal FreshnessHerbal Freshness
Substitute or add fresh mint or basil alongside the cilantro for a different aromatic complexity that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Kiwis are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune system support, collagen production, and overall skin health.
Healthy Fats for Heart Health
Avocados provide a significant amount of monounsaturated fats, known for their benefits in supporting cardiovascular health and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Fiber-Packed for Digestion
Both kiwi and avocado are good sources of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions
This salsa is best enjoyed fresh within 1-2 hours of preparation. While the lime juice helps, avocado will eventually oxidize and brown. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the texture may soften slightly.
