Chili’s Copycat Salsa Recipe

While experimenting in my kitchen, I fell in love with this Chilis Salsa Recipe that blends whole peeled tomatoes, red onions, jalapenos, lime juice, and garlic into a lively medley. The fresh cilantro and subtle cumin create flavors that keep me coming back for more irresistibly mouthwatering indulgence that never disappoints.

I was super excited to try this Chili’s Copycat Salsa Recipe that’s quickly become one of my favorites. I mean, honestly, who can resist a salsa that’s as close as you can get to the Best Restaurant Salsa Recipe out there?

With just a few simple but bold ingredients like a can of whole peeled tomatoes that are roughly chopped, 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion, and 2 minced jalapeno peppers, this salsa packs a punch without feeling overwhelming. I also tossed in 2 cloves of garlic, a splash of fresh lime juice, and some chopped cilantro for that extra zing.

A drizzle of white vinegar, a pinch of ground cumin, salt, a dash of sugar and a little ground black pepper complete the mix. It’s like a shortcut to the Best Ever Salsa Recipe you’ve ever tasted!

Trust me, grab some tortilla chips and you’re in for an epic snacking experience.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe for a bunch of reasons. First off, I appreciate how super easy it is to make. I mean, one minute I’m chopping up tomatoes and jalapenos and the next I’m mixing in lime juice and spices – it’s a breeze even if I’m not a master chef.

Also, the flavors totally knock my socks off. The fresh tomatoes and zesty lime juice mix with the cilantro and garlic in a way that makes every bite feel bright and alive. It kinda reminds me of eating at my favorite restaurant, but I’m right at home and saving money.

Another thing is that I love how customizable it is. Sometimes I even add extra garlic or more jalapeno if I’m in the mood for a spicier kick, so it feels like I’m in control of the flavor every time.

Lastly, I enjoy that it comes together so fast and fits perfectly with a bowl of tortilla chips. It’s like the ultimate snack for when I just wanna kick back and enjoy some tasty food, no fuss required.

This copycat salsa is so easy to whip up at home and tastes almost exactly like the restaurant version. It brings together all the great flavors of a homemade salsa without taking forever in the kitchen. All you have to do is mix up all the ingredients, let them sit for a half hour or so, and you’re ready to scoop it up with tortilla chips. It’s the perfect recipe for a chill night in with friends or even just a quick snack when you’re feeling a bit hungry.

Ingredients

• Whole Peeled Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes offer fiber, vitamins, and a tangy, hearty base for the salsa.
• Red Onion: Chopped red onions provide crunch, mild sweetness, and essential micronutrients for flavor.
• Jalapeno Peppers: Minced jalapenos add a spicy kick with vitamin C and bold heat throughout.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic intensifies savory flavor and aroma while lending notable health benefits.
• Lime Juice: Lime juice gives a zesty, tangy burst and refreshes with a dose of vitamin C.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish overall.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you like it extra garlicky)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make this

1. Drain the can of whole peeled tomatoes and roughly chop them into a big bowl.

2. Add 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion to the bowl with the tomatoes.

3. Mince the 2 seeded jalapeno peppers and toss them in too.

4. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, or add a bit more if you’re into it extra garlicky.

5. Pour in 1/4 cup fresh lime juice and mix the ingredients well.

6. Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped cilantro over everything.

7. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon white vinegar and then add 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.

8. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper.

9. Give everything a good mix, then let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend before serving with your favorite tortilla chips.

Equipment Needed

1. A large mixing bowl that’s big enough to mix all the ingredients together
2. A cutting board for chopping tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno peppers, garlic, and cilantro
3. A sharp knife to do all the chopping
4. A can opener to open the can of tomatoes if needed
5. A strainer or colander to drain the tomatoes
6. Measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the lime juice, vinegar, cumin, salt, sugar, and pepper
7. A stirring spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients in the bowl

FAQ

Chili’s Copycat Salsa Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of whole peeled tomatoes, you can use a can of crushed tomatoes if you like a smoother salsa.
• If you dont have red onion, try using white onion instead which gives a milder taste.
• For a different heat level, serrano peppers work well in place of jalapeno peppers.
• Lemon juice can be used instead of the fresh lime juice if thats what you have on hand.
• If you dont like cilantro, flat-leaf parsley makes a good swap without losing that fresh herbal flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Try letting the salsa chill in the fridge for a few hours if you have time. This really helps the flavors blend together and gives it a richer taste overall.
2. If you’re not a big fan of heat, consider reducing the amount of jalapenos or even swapping one for a milder pepper. But if you love the spicy kick, go ahead and add an extra one.
3. For an extra burst of flavor, toast the cumin lightly in a dry pan before mixing it in. It brings out a smokier, deeper aroma that can really elevate the dish.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning once everything has marinated. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a tiny bit more lime juice can make a big difference.