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Roasted Tomato and Tomatillo Salsa

A smoky, bright salsa made from charred tomatoes and tomatillos, blended with lime, cilantro, and a hint of serrano heat. Easy to prepare on a griddle or grill, it’s perfect served with chips or alongside tacos and grilled dishes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings 16 servings

Equipment

  • Large griddle or cast iron pan
  • Blender
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 4 vine ripe tomatoes or 2–3 larger tomatoes
  • 2 tomatillos husks removed and rinsed
  • 1 serrano pepper
  • 1/2 cup cilantro loosely packed
  • 1/2 medium Spanish onion outer skin removed; cut in half (reserve other half for another use)
  • 1 fresh lime or 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for coating the griddle
  • 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt plus more to taste
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Instructions
 

Roasting on the grill or griddle

  • Preheat a large griddle, cast-iron pan, or outdoor grill over high heat until very hot.
  • While the surface warms, remove husks from the tomatillos and rinse away any sticky residue. Peel and halve the onion and rinse the tomatoes and serrano pepper.
  • Brush a thin layer of vegetable oil over the hot griddle or pan to prevent sticking.
  • Place the tomatoes, tomatillos, onion halves, and serrano on the hot surface. Cook about 5 minutes, then flip each piece to the opposite side.
  • Continue turning the vegetables every few minutes until they are charred on multiple sides and softened—this may take up to 30 minutes. Expect sizzling and occasional popping.
  • Remove the roasted vegetables from heat and allow them to cool for about 15 minutes.

Making the salsa

  • Trim any stems from the tomatoes, tomatillos, and serrano before processing.
  • Place the cooled, charred vegetables into a blender along with the lime (or lime juice), cilantro, and kosher salt.
  • Pulse in short bursts on medium speed until the mixture reaches a medium-textured consistency—slightly chunky but without large pieces. Adjust the number of pulses to make the salsa thicker or smoother.
  • Taste and add additional salt if needed; tomatoes and tomatillos can absorb salt so adjust to preference.
  • Transfer the salsa to a container and refrigerate for about 2 hours if you prefer it chilled, or serve immediately at room temperature.
  • Serve with tortilla chips or alongside your favorite savory dishes.