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Salsa 101

By: Christine Szalay-Kudra

Published: October 9, 2010
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Salsa literally means "sauce." It has a long, rich history. It is believed that salsa began with the Aztecs of the 15th century. The first written mention of what could have been salsa was a description of a sauce that was sold in what is today Mexico City. It was made from pumpkin seeds, tomatoes, and hot peppers. It was eaten with venison, fish, and turkey.

Centuries later, salsa made it to the United States. In 1917, La Victoria Foods started making a commercial salsa in Los Angeles. More companies added salsa to their list of products as the years went by. Salsas were all pretty much the same until recent years. Today you can find all sorts of salsas like black bean or fruit.

Salsa has taken the top spot as America's favorite condiment, passing ketchup, which held the coveted spot for years. With more people interested in fresh and healthy foods, salsa has risen to the top and made its mark.

You can find salsa in almost any market today. Many people have found that it is easy to make their own salsa at home. Homemade salsa can be made either smooth or chunky with all your favorite ingredients like peppers, tomatoes, and spices. Making your own salsa lets you experiment and find your own blend. Make it hot if you like it that way, or sweet and fruity. You can use the ingredients you like best.

You can eat salsa with chips as a snack or serve it as a condiment with your meal. Salsa has really come into its own and you can find it in many different colors. You can even make a salsa bar when you host a party. Serve several different salsas and let your guests eat their favorites. There are so many different types of salsa that you will not have any trouble filling it up.

It is very simple to make salsa. Pick out your favorite vegetables and chop them up. Stick the pieces into your food processor and turn it on. Depending on how long you run the processor your salsa will turn out either chunky or smooth. Experiment a bit and see what you like best with your chosen ingredients.

If you are a fan of Mexican appetizers you will also love salsa. Add some to your plate with these appetizers. It complements them well. Salsa goes well with many different foods like quesadillas, tacos, burritos and more. You must add some salsas if you make a taco bar for your family or friends.

Your guests will enjoy all the salsas you serve. By providing a variety, they can choose the flavors they like best. Try some mild salsas with fruit added, such as peaches, pineapple, or mango. Make some spicy salsas with jalapenos, or if you are really brave, some habanera peppers. Salsa verde, a green salsa, is made with a base of tomatillos instead of tomatoes. You can even make a simple tomato salsa using a variety of colorful heirloom tomatoes, garlic, and other seasonings.

More Information:

Holiday appetizer recipes will fill out your holiday meal perfectly. Many people like to put out appetizers before everyone gathers for the big meal. These can be as simple as a plate of olives and pickles to more elaborate appetizers that look as festive as holiday cookies.


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