This easy pineapple salsa recipe is incredibly delicious! With its vibrant tropical flavors it pairs effortlessly with anything from grilled tofu to tacos, or even salads, adding a refreshing and zesty touch.
If you love experimenting with salsas and spices you should also check out my corn salsa and taco seasoning for more inspiration.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Tropical sweetness. Fresh pineapple salsa offers a burst of tropical sweetness that perfectly balances savory dishes, adding a refreshing and flavorful element and some vibrant colors!
- Versatility in pairing. This dish complements a wide range of meals, including grilled tofu, tacos, fajitas, burritos, salads, and even as a dip with tortilla chips, making it a versatile and adaptable condiment.
- Easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, pineapple salsa comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy it quickly without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients needed
- Fresh pineapple. The star ingredient, providing the sweet and tangy tropical flavor that defines pineapple salsa. This can be grilled (caramelized) to add a new layer of complexity to the salsa.
- Red bell pepper. Adds a crisp texture, vibrant color, and a mild sweetness that complements the pineapple.
- Red onion. Provides a sharp and slightly pungent flavor that adds depth to the salsa.
- Jalapeño pepper. Adds a hint of heat and a spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the pineapple. The seeds and membranes of the pepper can be removed if you’d prefer a more mild dish.
- Fresh cilantro leaves. Offers a fresh and aromatic note, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salsa.
- Lime juice. Adds a tangy and citrusy element, bringing brightness and balancing the flavors.
- Salt. To taste.
How to make pineapple salsa
Step 1 – Caramelize the pineapple (optional). Place the fresh pineapple slices on a medium-high heat grill grates and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple caramelizes slightly. Remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Dice the pineapple into small pieces.
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Step 2 – Combine the base ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. Season with salt to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed. Gently toss the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 3 – Let it rest. Let the pineapple salsa sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more lime juice or salt if desired. Serve the grilled pineapple salsa immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Tips to make the best recipe
- Choose ripe and sweet pineapple. Select a ripe pineapple that is fragrant and has a golden color.
- Balance the flavors. Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper based on your spice preference. You can also adjust the lime juice and salt to achieve the desired balance of sweetness, tanginess, and saltiness.
- Dice ingredients uniformly: Aim for a consistent and uniform chopping of the ingredients, including the pineapple, bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño. This ensures even distribution of flavors and textures in each bite.
Storage instructions
To store: Transfer the salsa to an airtight container or a covered bowl. Keep it in the fridge to maintain its freshness and flavors for about 3-4 days. Before serving any leftovers, give the salsa a quick stir to redistribute the flavors. Note that the crispness of the ingredients may soften slightly upon storage.
More condiment recipes to try
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. However, fresh pineapple is preferred as it offers a juicier and more vibrant flavor. Canned pineapple may have a slightly different texture and taste due to the canning process.
If you prefer a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño pepper before chopping it. This will reduce the heat level. Alternatively, if you prefer a spicier salsa, you can leave some or all of the seeds and membranes intact.
Pineapple salsa is versatile and can be served with various dishes. It pairs well with grilled tofu, tacos, quesadillas, or as a topping for salads. It can also be enjoyed as a refreshing dip with tortilla chips or served alongside crispy appetizers.
Pineapple Salsa
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple diced, grilled (optional)
- 1 large red bell pepper seeded and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper seeded, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 lime juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- (Optional) Place the fresh pineapple slices on a medium-high heat grill grates and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple caramelizes slightly. Remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Dice the pineapple into small pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. Season with salt to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed. Gently toss the ingredients together until well combined.
- Let the pineapple salsa sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more lime juice or salt if desired. Serve the grilled pineapple salsa immediately or refrigerate for later use.
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