For many of us around the world, we are nearing the end of tomato season. The summer is winding down and if you are a home gardener like me then you are probably trying to find ways to use up your harvest. We've been enjoying our tomatoes for several weeks now and fresh salsa is just one of several ways we've used our tomatoes.
Benefits of Growing Your Own Tomatoes
If you are NOT a home gardener yet, then I'll share just a few reasons to consider a home garden. I shared this picture on Instagram and I'll share it here, as well. On the left is an organic, but store-bought tomato. On the right is our homegrown, heirloom, organic tomato. You can see a big difference visually. I can tell you that there was a massive difference in the taste, as well. The homegrown tomato was infinitely more flavorful and therefore, much more nutritious.
What you get in conventional agriculture is the pursuit of yield, pest-resistance, and overall appearance. You will not see a dedication to flavor. What we aren't told is that flavor and nutrition are intrinsically linked.
Mark Shatzker, author of The Dorito Effect, writes that that "...in Nature, flavor never appears without nutrition." In fact, he postulates that flavor IS nutrition. For real food, of course, not donuts! Our tomatoes were filled with delicious essential amino acids!
So, please excuse my soapbox on growing your own food, and while it's been a slow process, it has been no less satisfying. I believe you are rewarded when you try to make the most of what we have where you currently are. (Thank you, God, or the Universe or whatever you believe!) I remember when we were in a tiny apartment in Bulgaria and all I could manage were mint and basil plants on the window sill! Whatever you can manage, I promise, it's worth the effort!
Ok, now on to the recipe. :)
Chunky Fresh Salsa
2 cups of tomatoes diced
1-2 slices of pickled jalapeno peppers (omit if you don't want the spice)
1 medium onion finely diced
1 cup of fresh cilantro
1 tsp of jalapeno juice
3 tbs of fresh lemon juice
salt to taste
Add all the ingredients to a mixing bowl and use an immersion blender or food processer to lightly pulse all ingredients. If you want a smoother texture then blend longer. For a chunky texture, pulse until you achieve the desired texture.
This recipe is very simple, but, as they say, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication! I love the addition of the brine from the pickled jalapenos. It adds a delicious umami flavor to the salsa that I've not encountered in other fresh salsa recipes. We made this with our homegrown 'maters and it was quickly devoured. Pair this with some of your favorite tortilla chips or layer it on top of your favorite tacos.
If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out! I'd love to see it. Feel free to tag me at@consciouslivingtoday on Instagram or onFacebook if you happen to give it a go!
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