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Experience a burst of summer flavor with this vibrant cherry salsa that brightens up any table. Juicy cherries mingle with crisp red onion and fresh herbs bringing just the right balance of sweet and tangy. Whether served as a colorful dip with chips or spooned over grilled favorites this easy salsa will be the star of every picnic and barbecue.
The first time I put this cherry salsa out at a family cookout it was gone before the main course was off the grill. Now my friends always ask for the recipe and it never lasts long when I bring it along.
Ingredients
- Fresh cherries: Two cups pitted and chopped. Look for firm deeply colored fruit with shiny skins to ensure the best juicy bite
- Red onion: Half a cup finely diced. Choose onions with tight skins and a firm feel to avoid bitterness
- Jalapeño: Finely chopped and optional for just the right hint of heat. Smaller peppers tend to pack more spice
- Fresh cilantro: Quarter cup chopped. Go for bright green leaves without wilt for the most fragrant finish
- Lime: Juice of one lime. Pick a heavy lime with glossy skin for more juice
- Pinch of salt: Just a touch needed to bring all the flavors together. Consider using sea salt for a cleaner taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and Prepare Cherries:
- Remove stems and pits from the cherries under cold water then chop them into small pieces to release their juices and keep the salsa chunky
- Dice Onion and Jalapeño:
- Finely dice red onion and jalapeño wearing gloves if you want to avoid lingering spice on your hands. Small dice ensures every bite has balanced flavor
- Mix Everything Together:
- In a medium bowl combine the chopped cherries red onion jalapeño cilantro and the juice of one lime. Gently stir so the fruits and veggies are evenly coated but not crushed
- Season and Taste:
- Add a generous pinch of salt then taste and adjust if needed. The salt unlocks sweetness and depth from the cherries
- Chill for Best Flavor:
- Cover the bowl with wrap and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes. This melding of flavors takes the salsa from good to outstanding
- Serve:
- Give one last stir before serving this salsa cold as a dip or spicy sweet topping for your grilled chicken or fish
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Red onion brings out cherry sweetness with every bite and I always think about the time my niece helped me chop cherries for her birthday. She loved how her hands turned pink and now she requests cherry salsa as her special party dip.
Storage Tips
Store cherry salsa in a sealed container in the refrigerator and enjoy within forty eight hours for peak freshness. Stir before serving to redistribute juices. I like to keep mine in a glass jar for easy shaking and presentation
Ingredient Substitutions
If cherries are not in season swap with diced strawberries or blackberries for a fun variation. For less spice use a small amount of bell pepper instead of jalapeño. Parsley can also replace cilantro if needed
Serving Suggestions
Pile big spoonfuls over grilled pork chicken or even salmon for a fresh bright contrast. It is also great as a zesty topping for tacos or folded into wraps for quick lunches
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A Bite of Summer History
Fruit salsas like this one have roots in Mexican cuisine where fresh produce meets herbs and citrus in every bowl. Cherries bring a new sweet twist making the salsa just as eye catching as it is delicious
Recipe FAQs
- → Can frozen cherries be used instead of fresh?
Yes, thawed frozen cherries can be used if fresh are unavailable. Make sure to drain excess juice before chopping.
- → How spicy is this salsa with jalapeño?
The jalapeño provides mild heat. For more spice, retain seeds; for less, omit or remove seeds before dicing.
- → How long will this salsa keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to two days. Stir before serving to redistribute juices.
- → What pairs well with this salsa?
It's delicious with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish, or even spooned over tacos for a fruity, zesty touch.
- → Can I prepare this salsa in advance?
Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. This resting time helps the flavors meld for a richer taste.
- → Are there substitutions for cilantro?
Try chopped parsley or mint for a different herby note if you prefer not to use cilantro.