Español Grow This

Salsa Verde

This delicious green salsa uses tomatillos and green peppers to make a sauce that can be used with a variety of dishes.
Bowl of green textured salsa.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Makes: 2 ½ cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 pound tomatillos, husks removed
5 serrano peppers (use ½ bell pepper for mild salsa)
¼ medium onion, cut in big chunks
2 cloves garlic, unpeeled
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped cilantro

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
  3. Place the vegetables and garlic on a dry skillet. Grill on medium heat until soft, about 10 minutes. Move around a few times to brown all edges.
  4. Remove peel from garlic. Add garlic, vegetables, salt and pepper to a blender. Pulse 4 to 5 times to a thickness you like.
  5. Move salsa to a bowl. Stir in cilantro and serve.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • To cook tomatillos, you must first remove the dry skin that surrounds them. You have to rinse them well because they tend to be sticky.
  • No serrano peppers? Try jalapeño peppers or other hot peppers.
  • The spiciness of peppers can vary depending on the growing conditions. Peppers usually have a higher level of heat during hot summer months.
  • No blender? Use a knife or grind with a stone, mortar or molcajete.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Thanks to the OSU Extension Latin Heritage Workgroup for this recipe.

Featured in a Food Hero Monthly

Comments

Submitted by russeste on Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:53

This was the best salsa recipe ever! It has so much flavor and was so good on my quesadilla. I've never made my own Salas Verde before, but wanted to give it a try and this recipe did not disappoint. It's spicy, which I like, and it tastes so fresh. I'll definitely be making this recipe again, but for now I get to use the leftovers. I think I'll try drizzling it on a taco salad for dinner!

Salsa Verde

 

Submitted by HENelson13 on Mon, 08/26/2024 - 13:18

I used the 1/2 green bell pepper option and it made a sweet and unique tasting salsa verde. Salsa was very fast and easy to make. 

Submitted by walscaro on Sun, 01/23/2022 - 11:24

I had no idea it was so easy to make a salsa verde myself. Thanks!

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Savory Yogurt Dip
Small bowl of creamy dip with a plate of sliced vegetables and served in a veggie wrap.

Savory Yogurt Dip

A thick and creamy herbed yogurt dip that is great on wraps or for dipping veggies and pita.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
½ cup
Salmon Pasta Skillet
Bowl of pasta shells and salmon garnished with parsley.

Salmon Pasta Skillet

Whole grain pasta, canned salmon and tomatoes come together for a delicious and nutritious pasta meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Cauliflower Salad
Photo of Cauliflower Salad

Cauliflower Salad

Tender veggies with a creamy dressing make a perfect side dish. Great for summer BBQs!
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
5 Cups
Maple Glazed Turnips
Baking dish filled with sweet potatoes and turnips sprinkled with cinnamon.

Maple Glazed Turnips

A warm and flavorful dish that combines maple and cinnamon with hearty root vegetables.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
4 Cups
Southern Okra Bean Stew
Bowl of okra, rice and bean soup with tomato-based broth.

Southern Okra Bean Stew

A combination of hearty whole grains, creamy beans and tasty veggies make a satisfying and delicious stew.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
14 cups
Cowboy Salad
Corn, bean and vegetable mix with dressing in a large bowl.

Cowboy Salad

A simple, tasty salad that is ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for BBQs, potluck dinners or as a side dish any time of year.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
8 cups