Making Green Tomato Salsa

By: Helen Polaski

If you're a gardener, green tomato salsa is the perfect way to get rid of leftovers at the end of the season. You just need to choose the right green tomatoes before you get started.

Before a tomato turns red, it retains a distinct flavor that is tangy, not quite bitter. But, as soon as the tomato begins to turn red or orange, it has very little flavor. During that period, the adaptable tomato is virtually useless: The tartness will have disappeared. After a few days, however, it will undergo another change, and the true tomato taste will emerge. Make sure you use the tomato for salsa either before it moves into the green-red stage or after it has passed through.

For a robust roasted flavor and aroma, slice and grill green tomatoes prior to being dicing them for salsa. Always bring salsa ingredients to room temperature before slicing, dicing and mixing. The flavors blend much better when items are not cold.

Basic Green Tomato Salsa

Ingredients You Will Need:
4 cups green tomatoes, chopped (do not skin)
1 large onion, chopped
2 cups jalapenos, chopped
¼ cup chives, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons white vinegar
½ tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon dried chipotle powder
½ teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon cilantro

Chop tomatoes and onions. Split the jalapenos, being careful not to burn your hands. Remove the seeds and stems, and chop into small pieces. Wash and dry the chives. Using a pair of kitchen shears, cut the chives into tiny pieces. Mix all ingredients.

Green Tomato Salsa With Extra Zip

Ingredients You Will Need:
4 cups green tomatoes, chopped (do not skin)
1 cup green chili peppers, seeded and chopped
½ cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
½ teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon oregano leaves
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cilantro

Mix all ingredients together, and set aside for about one hour to marinate. While salsas are best at room temperature, all must be stored in the refrigerator. Remove from the fridge about 30 minutes before the meal, and stir it several times to bring it to room temperature before serving.

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