Ingredients
- 1 ½ limes, juiced, or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- ½ cup ground cherries, husked and halved
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- ½ finely chopped seeded cucumber
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro, or more to taste
- 1 dash passion fruit-jalapeno fruit vinegar (optional)
- salt to taste
Ingredient Image
Why This Recipe Works
This salsa offers a unique twist with its sweet and tangy flavor from ground cherries. It’s fresh, vibrant, and perfect for those looking to try something different from the usual tomato-based salsas. Plus, it’s easy to make and pairs well with many dishes.
Cooking Tips
- Use ripe ground cherries for the best natural sweetness.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili peppers according to your taste.
- Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili peppers according to your taste.
- Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Directions
Stir the lime juice and red onion in a bowl, then let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps soften the sharpness of the onion. Next, add the ground cherries, cherry tomatoes, jalapeno, cucumber, cilantro, vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors. You can serve it right away if you like, or cover it and pop it in the fridge to let the flavors meld before serving.
Serving Combinations
Serve this salsa as a dip with tortilla chips or spoon it over grilled meats and fish. It also works great as a topping for tacos or mixed into a fresh salad for extra zest and texture.
Freezing Tips
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving again to redistribute the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, you can use diced regular tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes add a sweeter, juicier texture.
How spicy is this salsa?
The heat mainly comes from the jalapeno, which is mild to medium spicy. Adjust or omit it to control the spice level.
What can I substitute for passion fruit-jalapeno vinegar?
You can use regular apple cider vinegar or lime juice if you don’t have passion fruit-jalapeno vinegar.
How long should I let the salsa sit before serving?
You can serve it immediately, but chilling it for 30 minutes to an hour helps the flavors meld better.
Can I prepare this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s freshest when eaten within 24 hours.
What do ground cherries taste like?
Ground cherries have a sweet, slightly tart flavor similar to a mix of tomato and pineapple.
Is it necessary to seed the jalapeno and cucumber?
Seeding the jalapeno reduces heat, and seeding the cucumber prevents excess water, keeping the salsa from becoming too watery.
Can I make this salsa without cilantro?
Yes, you can omit cilantro or substitute with fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor.
