Steps by steps Vegan Salsa Verde dip

Vegan Salsa Verde dip, or “green sauce,” is a vibrant and tangy dip that is widely enjoyed in Mexican cuisine as well as in other culinary traditions around the world. Vegan Salsa Verde is characterized by its use of fresh, plant-based ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those following a vegan diet.

The main component of Salsa Verde is tomatillos, small green fruits that resemble tomatoes and have a tart flavor profile. The tomatillos are typically husked, washed, and then either roasted, boiled, or left raw before blending. This base is then combined with ingredients such as jalapeño peppers or other green chili peppers, white onion, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice to add layers of flavor and heat. A touch of salt is used to balance the flavors.

In the vegan version of Salsa Verde, all ingredients are naturally plant-based, ensuring that the dip can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. Salsa Verde is not only praised for its zesty taste but also for its versatility. It can serve as a refreshing condiment for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas; as a lively dip for chips; or even as a flavorful marinade for grilling vegetables and plant-based proteins.

Its bright green hue and bold taste make vegan Salsa Verde an eye-catching addition to any table. Beyond its traditional role in Mexican cuisine, Salsa Verde can also incorporate global influences by including ingredients like avocado, which adds creaminess, or using different herbs for unique twists.

Vegan Salsa Verde dip

Vegan Salsa Verde dip

Vegan Salsa Verde dip is a tangy, herbaceous condiment that complements a variety of dishes. Made primarily from tomatillos—a small green fruit with a tart flavor profile—this dip is a staple in Mexican cuisine and enjoys popularity for its fresh, zesty taste. The tomatillos are usually husked, washed, and then either roasted, boiled, or used raw before being blended with ingredients like jalapeño or other green chili peppers, white onion, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and a dash of salt.

This plant-based version ensures all the ingredients are vegan-friendly, making Vegan Salsa Verde suitable for a wide range of diets. It's celebrated not only for its bright and bold flavors but also for its versatility. As a dip, it goes well with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos and enchiladas, or even as a marinade for grilling vegetables or plant-based proteins.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Salad, Sauce

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2 cup

Calories 66 kcal

Equipment

• 1 saucepan
• 1 blender
• 1 serving bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 Ib. fresh tomatillos husked and cut in half
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 scallions roughly chopped
• 1 to 2 fresh jalapeño peppers seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• Juice of 1/2 to 1 lime to taste
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Instructions

 

• Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the onion and garlic and cook for 2 minutes or until golden and translucent. Remove heat.
• Transfer to the bowl of a mini food processor or a blender, add the remaining ingredients and process or blend until almost smooth.
• Return back to the saucepan and let simmer over low heat, partially covered, for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Transfer to a serving bowl, cover with a lid and keep in the fridge to chill for 30 to an hour before serving.
• Store any leftover in an air tight container and keep in the fridge, use within a week

Keyword olive oil, onion, tomatillos

Cooking Tips about Vegan Salsa Verde dip

• Choose Fresh Tomatillos: Look for tomatillos that have a bright green color and are firm to the touch. The husk should be intact but easy to remove. Fresher tomatillos contribute to a more lively and authentic taste.
• Roast for Depth: For a deeper flavor profile, roast your tomatillos along with chili peppers, onion, and garlic. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables and adds complexity to the dip.
• Balance the Heat: Adjust the level of spice by selecting different types of chili peppers. Jalapeño peppers will provide medium heat, while serrano peppers will offer a sharper kick. Removing the seeds and membranes from peppers can reduce spiciness.
• Acidic Balance: The acidity in Vegan Salsa Verde is important; lime juice is traditionally used. Start with the juice of one lime and adjust according to your preference.
• Herb Selection: Fresh cilantro is typical for its bold flavor. For a different twist, you could try parsley or even a combination of both. Make sure the herbs are well-rinsed and patted dry before chopping.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season your salsa with salt. It not only enhances the natural flavors but also provides the right balance against the tartness of the tomatillos and the heat of the chili peppers.
• Blend to Your Liking: Some people prefer their salsa verde chunky, while others like it smooth. Use a food processor or blender to achieve your desired consistency, pulsing a few times for a coarse texture or blending until smooth.
• Let It Rest: After blending, let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together for a more harmonious taste.
• Avocado for Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture and rich taste, blend in a ripe avocado with the rest of the ingredients. Not only will this add creaminess, but it will also provide healthy fats.
• Storage: Salsa verde can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Its flavor often improves after a day as the ingredients continue to marry and develop.

Serving suggestions about Vegan Salsa Verde dip

• Tacos and Enchiladas: Drizzle or spoon Vegan Salsa Verde over your favorite tacos and enchiladas for a burst of bright, herbal flavor.
• Chips and Dip: Serve as a classic dip alongside tortilla chips for an appetizer or snack during a get-together or a casual evening at home.
• Grilled Vegetables and Plant Proteins: Use Vegan Salsa Verde as a marinade or condiment for grilling vegetables, tofu, tempeh, or seitan, adding extra zest and moisture.
• Rice and Bean Dishes: Swirl the salsa into rice and bean dishes for added complexity and a touch of tanginess.
• Veggie Burgers: Top veggie burgers with a generous spoonful of Salsa Verde to elevate their flavor profile.
• Salad Dressing: Mix with a little olive oil and use it as a light and zesty dressing for green salads or pasta salads.
• Stuffed Avocados: Fill halved avocados with the salsa for a refreshing and nutritious appetizer or side dish.
• Breakfast Bowls: Spoon over savory breakfast bowls that include scrambled tofu, black beans, and roasted potatoes for a morning meal with a kick.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread on sandwiches or wraps to moisten the bread and add a unique twist to your lunch.
• Soup Garnish: Stir into soups, such as a chilled cucumber soup or a warm black bean soup, just before serving for a fresh flavor boost.