Tongue Tingling Salsa

Now,

As a Southerner I enjoy rich foods such as fried chicken, bread pudding, Brussels sprouts, macaroni and cheese as well as plenty of others. However, as a former Southwestern I need my occasional fix of heat and spice. When the urge to have Mexican food hits I usually whip up a quick batch of salsa to enjoy while I'm cooking. This recipe is one that has been in my family for a while and is great for parties, lazy afternoons, or just a quick snack. Most think of chips and salsa as 'snack food' which isn't typically healthy. Homemade salsa however is packed with vitamins and nutrients. So go ahead! Indulge!

Ingredients:

3-4 ripe tomatoes

1-2 jalapenos (depending on spice preference)

1 red onion

1 clove of garlic

1 handful of fresh cilantro

1 handful of fresh parsley (not Italian)

1 tablespoon of tomato paste

1 small can of tomato sauce (if color is desired)

zest of lemon and lemon juice Directions:

Cut tomatoes and onion into quarters. Remove jalapenos seeds and dice the jalapenos. Remove the flaky garlic skin. Cut off roots and most of cilantro and parsley stems. Add lemon juice, zest, paste and tomato sauce to blender or food processor along with all other ingredients. Pulse ingredients to desired consistency (I prefer medium salsa with a bit of chunk to it). Place in covered contain and keep chilled in fridge. The longer it sits the spicier it gets! Usually best day after and will stay good for up to one week in fridge. Enjoy with chips or on other preferred foods.

Hope you enjoy,

Virginia Belle

The Finished Product