Here’s what you’ll need for this easy pineapple salsa recipe:
Just 6 simple ingredients! This chunky salsa, reminiscent of pico de gallo, bursts with freshness thanks to its all-star cast of fresh ingredients. Juicy pineapple, chopped jalapeño pepper, red onion, and cilantro come together in this vibrant salsa. A touch of salt awakens the flavors and sweetness of the pineapple, while fresh lime juice balances sweetness with acidity. You won’t taste the lime directly, but it plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors!
Salsa Variants
My repertoire of salsa recipes boasts a variety of flavors, from the vibrant freshness of Corn Salsa and Salsa Verde to the classic tomato-based Fresh Salsa. But this recipe takes things a step further with a fruity twist! Sweet pineapple adds a delightful sweetness that elevates any dish.
Choosing a Ripe Pineapple
A ripe pineapple boasts a nicely rounded top, often referred to as the “shoulders.” The golden yellow skin should not be green. Examine the “eyes”: ideally, they should be open, flat, and not pointed (refer to the picture below). Next, give the pineapple a gentle squeeze. It should have a slight give but feel evenly firm, not spongy or soft. Finally, the trusty sniff test! The base of the pineapple should emit a sweet pineapple fragrance.
Ripening a Pineapple (Not Quite Possible!)
Unfortunately, pineapples don’t continue to ripen after they’re picked. I experimented with the unripe pineapple in the picture, but even with methods like propping it upside down, it took several days to see a slight yellowing of the skin, and it also started to soften – not ideal.
Pre-cut Pineapple to the Rescue!
Short on time or pineapple-cutting skills? No worries! Pre-cut pineapple is your salsa savior and a perfect substitute. If you can’t find whole pineapple or are uncomfortable cutting a whole pineapple, you can buy the already peeled and cut packaged pineapple. And if all else fails, canned pineapple will get the job done.
Ways to Serve Fruit Salsa
Top your favorite tacos – beef (pictured below), chicken, or fish – for a burst of fresh flavor. It’s also a delicious partner for tamales, adding a sweet and refreshing counterpoint. But feel free to keep it simple! Scoop it up with your favorite tortilla chips for a satisfying snack. Tip: For the best flavor experience, let the salsa come to room temperature before serving, rather than grabbing it straight from the fridge.
Picking the Perfect Tomato for Pineapple Jalapeño Salsa
For this sweet and spicy salsa, ripe tomatoes with a touch of sweetness are ideal. Here are some great options:
Roma tomatoes: A classic choice, offering sweetness and a good balance of moisture. Plum tomatoes: Similar to Roma tomatoes, but with a slightly meatier texture. Cherry tomatoes: These burst with sweetness and add a delightful pop of color to your salsa. Grape tomatoes: Another sweet option, offering bite-sized pieces that are perfect for scooping with chips.
Ultimately, the best tomato depends on your personal preference. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!
Cilantro Substitute
Not a Cilantro Fan? Try fresh parsley: This readily available herb offers a similar freshness without the cilantro punch. Looking to add a new dimension to your salsa? Here are some options beyond parsley:
Fresh Mint: This fragrant herb adds a cooling sensation and pairs well with pineapple or other tropical fruits in salsa. Thai Basil: A unique twist! This basil variety boasts a licorice-like warmth that complements savory salsas.
Optional additions to Salsa
Want to take your salsa to the next level? Here are some delicious add-ins: red bell peppers for a touch of sweetness, green peppers for a vibrant crunch, and black beans for a boost of heartiness.
Storing Pineapple Salsa
Enjoy Fresh Flavor for Days! This delicious salsa will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 days in an airtight container.
Double the Fun and Try Mango
This recipe isn’t just for pineapple lovers! Swap the pineapple for fresh mango and create a vibrantly delicious mango salsa. If you’ve tried this Fresh Pineapple Salsa or any other recipe on the blog then don’t forget to rate the recipe and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. I love to hear from my readers! You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST to see daily recipe updates.
