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Pineapple Salsa is a fresh, sweet, and juicy blend that brings a spicy kick with jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro, all tied together with a splash of tangy lime juice. Perfect as a snack with tortilla chips or as a flavourful topper for tacos, wings, and more, this vibrant appetizer is a must-try!
For more delicious salsa recipes, try my Mango Pineapple Salsa and easy Salsa Fresca.
This easy pineapple salsa recipe is my go-to for summer or anytime I want taste of something tropical. The tangy lime juice and tart pineapple combine with the juicy sweetness for a burst of flavour in every bite. It is Mexican-inspired, but I find it pairs well with so many dishes, from tacos to grilled chicken.
The best part is that it is ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you are hosting a party or need a quick snack, this recipe promises big flavour without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Pineapple: I always use fresh, ripe pineapple for this salsa. Its natural sweetness and juicy texture are the star of the show, giving the salsa that tropical flavour we love.
- Red Onion: Finely diced red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite that balances the pineapple’s sweetness. It also brings some nice crunch to the mix.
- Cilantro: Finely chopped cilantro brings that fresh, herbaceous taste that’s a must in any good salsa. It ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
- Jalapeño: Diced jalapeño gives the salsa its spicy kick. If you want to tone down the heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes before dicing.
- Lime Juice: Lime juice (or lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand) adds a tangy brightness that makes everything pop. It’s also what helps meld the ingredients together.
- Honey (optional): I like to add a little honey if the pineapple isn’t quite as sweet as I’d like. It’s totally optional but can help balance out the tart and tangy flavours.
- Salt: A pinch of salt is all you need to enhance the natural taste of the ingredients. I always taste and adjust as needed.
How to Make Pineapple Salsa
In a medium bowl, I combine the pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Then, I add the lime juice, honey if I’m using it, and a pinch of salt.
I mix everything gently, making sure the ingredients are well combined. After tasting, I adjust the flavours as needed, adding a little more salt or lime juice if necessary.
You can serve it right away, but I like to refrigerate it for 15 to 30 minutes to let everything meld together.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh, ripe pineapple. Fresh pineapple gives the best flavour and sweetness to the salsa. Choose one that’s golden and slightly soft to the touch, or use well-drained canned pineapple in a pinch.
- Balance the heat. Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño. For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes, or leave them in for an extra kick.
- Let it rest. Let the salsa sit for 15–30 minutes before serving for the best results. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
- Customize to taste. Add a little more lime juice, honey, or salt to suit your preference. Taste as you go to get the perfect balance of flavours.
Recipe Variations
- Peppers: Add finely diced red bell pepper for extra sweetness and crunch, enhancing the salsa’s texture and color.
- Tomatoes: Mix in diced Roma tomatoes for a tangy twist that brings a more traditional salsa feel.
- Fruity Additions: Swap some pineapple with diced mango or avocado for a tropical twist. Mango adds extra sweetness, while avocado brings a creamy texture.
- Herbal Twists: Try fresh mint or basil instead of cilantro for a unique flavour profile. These herbs add a refreshing or slightly sweet note to the salsa.
What to Serve with Pineapple Salsa
- Tortilla Chips: A classic pairing for a quick and easy snack.
- Tacos: Perfect for Shrimp Tacos or Jerk Chicken Tacos, adding a fresh, tangy twist. You’ll love it in a Loaded Taco Bowl.
- Salad: Use as a topping to add tropical flavour and texture to your greens.
- Grilled Foods: Fresh salsa complements grilled fish, pork, or veggies.
- Chicken: Try it with Jerk Chicken Wings for a Caribbean-inspired combo.
How long is pineapple salsa good for in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight contain and it will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Fresh pineapple is best for its texture and natural sweetness, but canned or frozen can work in a pinch. If using canned, choose pineapple in juice, not syrup, and drain well. For frozen pineapple, let it fully defrost and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery salsa.
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead to let the flavours meld together. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute any juices.
Absolutely! Mango, peach, or even kiwi can be great substitutes or additions to the pineapple. Just make sure the fruit is ripe and juicy for the best taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the new fruit.
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Pineapple Salsa
Equipment
- Medium Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup Pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup Red Onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp Cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 Jalapeno, diced
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice, or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Honey, optional
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple, red onion, cilantro and jalapeño. Then add lime juice, honey (if using), and salt. Mix gently until well combined. Taste and adjust flavours as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use Fresh, Ripe Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds the best flavour and sweetness to the salsa. Look for one that’s golden and slightly soft to the touch. If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the heat by controlling how much jalapeño you use. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder salsa, or leave them in for extra spice.
- Make It Ahead: Allow the salsa to sit for at least 15–30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavours time to meld and makes the salsa taste even better!
