Fresh tomatillos have a naturally bright, tangy flavor that becomes wonderfully mellow when roasted. Blended with sweet roasted onion, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime, this vibrant green salsa has just the right balance of smoky, zesty, and spicy flavors.
MAKES
8 SERVINGS (2 TABLESPOONS EACH)
QUICK RECIPE OVERVIEW
Why you’ll love it
Roasting brings out the best in fresh tomatillos, creating a homemade salsa with wonderful depth of flavor using just a handful of simple ingredients.
What Makes It So Flavorful?
Roasted tomatillos, onion, and garlic create a savory base, while fresh cilantro and lime add a bright finish. Jalapeño provides just enough heat.
Helpful Tips
Roast the vegetables until tender and lightly charred. Save the flavorful juices from the pan and blend them into the salsa.
Tomatillo Salsa Verde Sauce
TANGY · SMOKY · VIBRANT
ABOUT 8 SERVINGS | PREP 10 MINUTES | COOK 20-25 MINUTES
Ingredients:
½ pound fresh tomatillos (about 4–5 medium), husked and rinsed
½ small yellow or white onion, cut into chunks
½ jalapeño pepper
2 garlic cloves, unpeeled
1 tablespoon avocado oil
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
⅛ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Method:
Preheat oven to 425°F and prepare a rimmed baking sheet.
Cut the tomatillos in half and arrange on the baking sheet with the onion and jalapeño. Toss with avocado oil. Wrap the unpeeled garlic cloves in foil and place alongside the vegetables.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, until the tomatillos are softened and lightly charred. Let cool slightly.
Squeeze the softened roasted garlic from its skins into a small food processor. Add the roasted vegetables and their juices, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Pulse until you reach your desired consistency.
Adjust the salt or lime juice as needed. Serve warm or chilled.
Recipe Notes
Adjust the Heat: Remove the jalapeño seeds and membranes for a milder salsa. For more heat, add a little extra roasted jalapeño.
Salsa Consistency: Pulse briefly for a chunkier salsa or blend longer for a smooth, pourable sauce.
Serving Ideas: Delicious over chicken tacos, enchiladas, grilled vegetables, or your Black Bean Burgers (see recipe ↗).
Keep the roasting juices. They contain plenty of flavor from the tomatillos and help create a smooth salsa without watering it down.
Meal Prep: Roast the vegetables ahead and refrigerate until ready to blend with fresh cilantro and lime.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
