This Easy Pineapple Salsa is a refreshing and healthy dip that’s perfect for chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. With a bright combination of pineapple, peppers, and cilantro, this salsa is both flavorful and simple to prepare. Ideal for hot summer days, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to add a vibrant, fruity twist to their meals.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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1 small pineapple, chopped (about 3 cups)
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1 small red pepper, diced
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1 small green pepper, diced
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½ red onion, chopped
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¼ cup cilantro, chopped
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¼ cup lime juice (from about 1-2 medium-large limes)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon honey
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon salt
Directions
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Prepare the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pineapple, red pepper, green pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or measuring jug, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, and salt.
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Combine: Pour the dressing over the salsa ingredients and toss well to coat evenly.
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Chill: Cover the salsa and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
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Serve: Enjoy with chips, grilled chicken, or fish.
Nutrients
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Calories: 117 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Protein: 1g
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Fat: 3g
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Saturated Fat: 1g
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Sodium: 198mg
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Potassium: 266mg
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 18g
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Vitamin A: 825 IU
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Vitamin C: 117.5mg
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Calcium: 27mg
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Iron: 0.8mg
The Fresh, Sweet Ingredients of Pineapple Salsa
At the heart of this salsa is the fresh pineapple, which provides a natural sweetness and juiciness that’s hard to beat. Pineapple is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health, and contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion. The sweetness of pineapple pairs perfectly with the tang of lime juice and the slight heat from the peppers, creating a well-balanced and exciting flavor profile.
The peppers—both red and green—add color, crunch, and a hint of bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the fruitiness of the pineapple. Red peppers are naturally sweeter, while green peppers provide a more savory note, creating a nice balance. The addition of red onion provides a mild sharpness that rounds out the salsa, adding depth without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Cilantro is another key ingredient that brings a fresh, herbal note to the salsa. This fragrant herb has a unique flavor that adds brightness to any dish, and it works wonderfully with the sweetness of pineapple and the acidity of lime.
The Simple Process of Making Pineapple Salsa
One of the best aspects of this pineapple salsa is its simplicity. In just a few easy steps, you can have a fresh, flavorful dip or topping ready to serve. First, prepare the fresh ingredients by chopping the pineapple, red pepper, green pepper, and red onion into small, bite-sized pieces. Then, chop the cilantro finely to release its aromatic oils.
Once the ingredients are prepared, they’re combined in a medium bowl. The colorful mix of pineapple and peppers already looks appealing, but the next step is where the magic happens—creating the dressing.
The Key to the Perfect Dressing
The dressing for this salsa is simple but adds the necessary layers of flavor to bring everything together. Lime juice is the star ingredient in the dressing, providing an acidic brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the pineapple and balances the flavors. The addition of olive oil contributes a smooth richness, while honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the fruit. Ground cumin introduces a warm, earthy note to the salsa, tying the sweet and savory elements together. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, ensuring the salsa is well-seasoned and full of depth.
Once the dressing is mixed, it’s poured over the chopped ingredients and gently tossed to coat everything evenly. The salsa can then be refrigerated for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together, which makes it an ideal make-ahead dish.
Serving Pineapple Salsa: Versatile and Delicious
While this salsa is fantastic as a dip for tortilla chips, its versatility shines through when it’s used as a topping for grilled meats. The refreshing, tangy flavors pair beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, especially when served alongside other light, fresh sides. It can also be served on tacos or as a garnish for burgers, adding a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the smoky or savory profile of the main dish.
This easy pineapple salsa is also perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or potlucks. It’s a light, healthy option that satisfies everyone, and it’s quick to make, so it’s an excellent choice for those last-minute gatherings or spontaneous get-togethers.
Nutritional Benefits of Pineapple Salsa
Not only does pineapple salsa taste great, but it’s also a healthy choice. With just 117 calories per serving, it’s a low-calorie option for anyone looking to add more nutritious, flavorful foods to their diet. It’s naturally low in fat, with only 3 grams of fat per serving, and it provides a good amount of fiber—3 grams per serving. This fiber is great for digestion and can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
The salsa also offers a great source of vitamin C, with 117.5 milligrams per serving, which is more than enough to meet your daily recommended intake. Vitamin C is crucial for boosting the immune system, supporting collagen production for healthy skin, and acting as a powerful antioxidant. Additionally, the potassium content in this salsa (266 milligrams per serving) is beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Why Pineapple Salsa is a Must-Have
Pineapple salsa is a must-have for anyone looking to add a bit of tropical flair to their meals. It’s a light, refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor and full of nutritious ingredients. Its versatility makes it a great addition to a wide variety of meals, from casual snacks to elegant dinners. With minimal preparation and just a few simple ingredients, this salsa is a delicious way to brighten up your summer meals and make them a little bit healthier.
Moreover, this salsa offers a wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, which makes it perfect for all palates. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dip, a topping for grilled meats, or just a refreshing side, pineapple salsa is an ideal choice that can easily become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Easy Pineapple Salsa is a refreshing and vibrant addition to any meal. With its combination of fresh pineapple, crunchy peppers, and tangy lime dressing, it offers a sweet and savory flavor profile that everyone will love. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a light dinner, or simply looking for a healthy snack. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. So, give this easy pineapple salsa a try, and enjoy the burst of flavor and freshness it brings to your table!