Fresh, tangy, and packed with a pop of vibrant flavor, this Homemade Salsa Verde is the perfect companion to chips, tacos, grilled meats, and so much more. Made with roasted tomatillos, garlic, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro, it brings a bright and zesty balance to your favorite savory dishes.
This green salsa is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re spooning it over enchiladas, mixing it into scrambled eggs, or just dipping with tortilla chips, it’s one of those go-to sauces that livens up everything it touches. Plus, once you make it at home, you’ll never go back to the store-bought jar again.
What Kind of Tomatillos Should I Use?
Look for firm tomatillos with tight, papery husks that aren’t too dry. The fruit inside should be bright green and slightly sticky to the touch. These are the best for roasting and will give your salsa verde that punchy, tart flavor.

Ingredients for the Homemade Salsa Verde
- Tomatillos: The star of the show. Their tartness gives salsa verde its signature tang.
- Garlic cloves: Roasted to bring a mellow, sweet depth.
- Jalapeños or serrano peppers: For heat! Use more or less depending on your spice preference.
- White onion: Adds sharpness and body.
- Cilantro: Essential for that fresh, herby lift.
- Lime juice: Brightens everything and balances the heat.
- Salt: To enhance all the natural flavors.
How To Make the Homemade Salsa Verde
Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse them well. Place the tomatillos, whole garlic cloves, jalapeños (or serrano peppers), and sliced onion on a baking sheet. Roast them under the broiler for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until blistered and slightly charred.
Step 2: Blend to Perfection
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender. Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Blend until you reach your desired consistency—chunky or smooth, it’s up to you.
Step 3: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your salsa. Need more brightness? Add more lime. Want more kick? Toss in another pepper. Adjust salt to your liking.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Let your salsa verde cool slightly before storing in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after a few hours once the flavors have melded together.
How to Serve and Store Homemade Salsa Verde
This salsa is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, drizzle it over tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or even scrambled eggs. It also makes a zesty base for enchiladas verdes or can be used as a marinade.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container or ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is salsa verde?
That depends on the peppers you use. Jalapeños are milder, while serranos pack more heat. You can also remove the seeds for a milder version.
Can I use raw tomatillos instead of roasting them?
Yes, but roasting deepens the flavor and brings out a subtle sweetness. Raw tomatillos will result in a sharper, more acidic salsa.
Is salsa verde the same as green enchilada sauce?
They’re similar, but enchilada sauce is usually cooked after blending and often includes added broth and seasonings. Salsa verde is typically fresher and more vibrant.
How long does homemade salsa verde last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze salsa verde?
Absolutely. Freeze in small portions for easy thawing. Just give it a stir once thawed, as it may separate slightly.
What can I use salsa verde for besides chips?
Try it as a topping for eggs, a taco sauce, a dressing for bowls, or a zesty dip for quesadillas.
Want More Sauce and Dip Ideas?
If you’re loving this Homemade Salsa Verde, try these other flavorful favorites from the blog:
- Shut Yo Mouth Sauce for a bold kick that’s unforgettable.
- Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip if you crave something creamy and briny.
- Louisiana Remoulade Sauce to elevate seafood or sandwiches.
- Spicy Sailor’s Dip when you want that heat and flavor combo.
- The Cheese Dip That Will Make You Famous for game day and gatherings.
For more fresh recipes like this, follow along on Pinterest: Life with Jam on Pinterest
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dips or salsa board so you can come back to it anytime.
And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you use jalapeños or go for the fiery serranos? Maybe you tried grilling instead of broiling?
Let’s swap ideas in the comments—questions are always welcome too!

Homemade Salsa Verde
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups
Description
This vibrant Homemade Salsa Verde bursts with tangy tomatillo flavor, a touch of heat, and a bright herby finish. Perfect for tacos, enchiladas, dipping, or spooning over eggs. Easy to roast, blend, and customize to your preferred spice level.
Ingredients
1 pound tomatillos
3 garlic cloves
1 to 2 jalapenos or serrano peppers
1 small white onion
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Remove the husks from the tomatillos, rinse, and dry them.
3. Place tomatillos, garlic cloves, jalapenos, and sliced onion on the sheet.
4. Broil for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly charred.
5. Transfer all roasted ingredients to a blender.
6. Add cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
7. Blend until smooth or chunky, depending on your preference.
8. Taste and adjust salt, lime, or spice level if needed.
9. Chill before serving to let flavors meld.
10. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for later.
Notes
Use serrano peppers instead of jalapenos for more heat.
Grill the tomatillos and peppers instead of broiling for a smoky flavor.
This salsa improves after a few hours in the fridge; make ahead for stronger flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Roasting and Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg


