If you're looking for a delicious and healthy addition to your meals, look no further than 2 oz (57 g) of salsa verde! This flavorful sauce packs a punch while containing only 15 calories per serving. Whether you're using it as a dip, marinade, or topping, salsa verde is a versatile and easy way to add a kick of flavor to your dishes.

Salsa verde is typically made with ingredients like tomatillos, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice, meaning it's packed with fresh and wholesome flavors. Not only is it low in calories, but it's also low in fat and sugar and high in Vitamin C. It's a guilt-free way to add some zing to your meals!

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about salsa verde - from its health benefits to some recipe ideas to try at home.

What is Salsa Verde?

Salsa verde is a sauce made from fresh tomatillos, jalapenos, cilantro, onion, and lime juice. It's commonly used in Mexican cuisine as a condiment, dip, or marinade. Unlike traditional tomato-based salsa, salsa verde has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Because it's made with fresh ingredients, salsa verde is typically healthier than other sauces or dips. You can easily make your own salsa verde at home or find it in most grocery stores in the condiment aisle. Salsa verde is also a versatile ingredient - you can pair it with everything from chips and nachos to grilled meats and seafood.

Ingredients in Salsa Verde

The exact ingredients in salsa verde can vary depending on the recipe or brand, but common ingredients include: - Tomatillos - Jalapenos - Onion - Cilantro - Lime juice Some recipes may also include garlic, avocado, or other herbs and spices to add more flavor.

How to Use Salsa Verde

Salsa verde is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas: - Dip: Pair it with tortilla chips or veggies for a healthy and flavorful snack. - Marinade: Use it to marinate chicken or seafood for extra flavor. - Topping: Drizzle it over tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or vegetables. - Dressing: Mix it with some olive oil or yogurt for a flavorful salad dressing. The possibilities are endless!

Why Choose Salsa Verde?

Salsa verde offers several benefits over other sauces or condiments: - Low in calories: Salsa verde is typically low in calories, making it a healthy addition to your meals. - High in vitamins: Because it's made with fresh ingredients like tomatillos and cilantro, salsa verde is high in vitamins and other nutrients. - Versatile: You can use salsa verde in a variety of ways, from dips to marinades to dressings. - Delicious: Above all, salsa verde is packed with fresh and zesty flavors that can take your meals to the next level.

Health Benefits of Salsa Verde

Salsa verde offers several health benefits thanks to its fresh ingredients: - High in vitamin C: Tomatillos - a key ingredient in salsa verde - are an excellent source of vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. - Low in calories: Salsa verde is typically low in calories, fat, and sugar, making it a healthy addition to your meals. - Packed with antioxidants: Salsa verde contains several antioxidants, which can help protect against disease and promote overall health.

Salsa Verde vs Salsa Roja

While salsa verde and salsa roja are both delicious Mexican sauces, there are some key differences between the two: - Color: Salsa verde is typically green in color, while salsa roja is red. - Ingredients: Salsa verde is made with tomatillos and jalapenos, while salsa roja is made with tomatoes and chili peppers. - Flavor: Salsa verde has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, while salsa roja is usually spicier and richer in flavor. Both sauces have their own unique advantages and pair well with a variety of dishes.

Salsa Verde Variations

While the classic recipe for salsa verde is delicious on its own, there are many variations you can try to switch things up: - Grilled salsa verde: Char the tomatillos and jalapenos on the grill for a smoky and delicious flavor. - Avocado salsa verde: Add some creamy avocado to your salsa verde for an extra burst of flavor. - Mango salsa verde: Mix in some diced mango for a sweeter twist on the classic recipe. - Spicy salsa verde: Add more jalapenos or other spicy ingredients to give your salsa verde an extra kick.

How to Make Salsa Verde at Home

Making your own salsa verde is easy and allows you to customize the recipe to your liking. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: - 10-12 tomatillos - 2 jalapenos - 1/4 cup diced onion - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro - Juice of one lime 1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. 2. Peel the husks off the tomatillos and rinse them under cold water. 3. Cut the tomatillos and jalapenos in half and place them on a baking sheet. 4. Roast the tomatillos and jalapenos in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they're soft and slightly charred. 5. Add the roasted tomatillos and jalapenos to a blender or food processor, along with the onion, cilantro, and lime juice. 6. Blend until smooth. 7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. 8. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Storing Salsa Verde

Salsa verde can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Here are some tips to ensure it stays fresh: - Store it in a sealed container: Transfer your salsa verde to an airtight container to prevent air from getting in and spoiling the sauce. - Use a clean spoon: Always use a clean spoon to scoop out your salsa verde to prevent contamination. - Freeze it: If you have extra salsa verde, you can freeze it for later use. Simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Recipe Ideas with Salsa Verde

Salsa verde is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. Here are some recipe ideas to try: - Shrimp tacos with mango salsa verde - Grilled flank steak with avocado salsa verde - Baked chicken with spicy salsa verde marinade - Sweet potato fries with garlic salsa verde dip