Pineapple Salsa Recipe

In the world of salsa, there are tons of different kinds that you can make, with pico de Gallo being one of the most popular kinds. This recipe is somewhat similar to the chunky nature of pico, but instead of tomato chunks, there's sweet pineapple instead. The combination of red onions, jalapeño, cilantro, garlic, and lime is the absolute perfect addition to your tortilla chips or tacos.

Recipe developer Jaime Shelbert of Wholly Nourished is the brains behind this fresh, fun, and flavorful pineapple salsa recipe, and she explains her favorite part of the recipe in the perfect way. "I love the combination of sweet and savory flavors in this salsa and how versatile it is as a condiment," Shelbert raves.
As for why she loves this salsa more than traditional? "I think we tend to get stuck in a box when it comes to cooking. It's fun to branch out and use other produce in plant based dishes to change things up," Shelbert shares. Give those tomatoes a rest and give this sweet pineapple salsa a spin!

This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, and you may have a few at home already. When you head to the store, pick up some fresh pineapple, red onions, jalapeño pepper, minced garlic, fresh cilantro, zest of a lime, juice of a lime, and salt.

There are plenty of health benefits of pineapple, and Shelbert is the best person to give us the run-down. "This tropical fruit packs a hefty vitamin C punch as it contains over 130% of the recommended daily amount. Pineapple also contains an enzyme called bromelain that aids in digestion, specifically in breaking down protein," she explains. "Additionally pineapple is high in antioxidants that fight free radicals thereby reducing signs of aging, chronic inflammation and risk for chronic disease." What's more to want in a fruit? 

Grab your diced pineapple and place it in a colander. As a reminder, you should have sliced it ahead of time, and Shelbert recommends a ¼-inch slice. Allow the juices to drain from the pineapple for a few minutes to remove the excess liquid. "Pineapple is fairly juicy so it's good to give it a quick drain so that the salsa doesn't become soggy" Shelbert explains. Once you allow the pineapple to drain, transfer it to a small mixing bowl.

As you can see from the ingredients list, there are a few more things that go into this salsa. In the mixing bowl with the pineapple, be sure to add the onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, zest, juice of a lime, and salt. Stir the contents well to combine everything together. "A few ideas for add-ins for this salsa are diced red pepper and black beans. Or enjoy it simply as is," Shelbert says. If you want to do a quick taste test, you can. Then, add any additional seasoning that you deem necessary.

Once you finish mixing the salsa, you can serve it. Wasn't that easy? This salsa would be wonderful with tortilla chips, but Shelbert also gives suggestions for a few other great ways to serve this salsa. "This salsa is perfect for your next taco night and pairs well with chicken, pork and fish. Or enjoy it as a snack with tortilla chips," Shelbert shares. "It's also tasty atop grilled fish such as mahi mahi." We love the pineapple and fish combination!