Kick Off the Summer with Some Salsa!

Did you know salsa means sauce in Spanish? It makes sense since both are tomato-based and delicious! Grab a bag of tortilla chips and a bowl of “sauce” this May for National Salsa Month!

There are so many combinations of salsa that you can buy at the store with different spice levels and different ingredients. Most salsas have a tomato base with onions, limes, onions, and peppers. Each ingredient contains various nutrients which your body benefits from in various ways.

Salsas are well known for adding a ton of flavor and a little heat to your favorite meals. Whether you like to enjoy salsa at breakfast or as the perfect pair to your chips, salsa is a great choice when you want to add in an extra kick of taste and get creative.

Some Salsa Nutrition

Salsas are much more than a dip for your chips, salsa is packed with vitamins and minerals. Most salsas are created with four or more ingredients, meaning numerous health benefits in each bite. Check out some common ingredients below and all the benefits that come along with them:

Tomatoes: The tomatoes in salsa are an excellent source of Vitamin A which aids in vision health, immune support, and thyroid hormone functioning. Tomatoes are also a good source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function, and Vitamin K which aids in blood clotting.

Onions: The onions used are known as bulb onions, which have several health benefits including anti-inflammatory effects helping aid in immune support. They are also a decent source of fiber which helps aid in digestion and keeps your gut healthy.

Jalapeños: Looking for some heat? Jalapenos make a great source of natural heat for your salsa. They are also full of important nutrients such as Vitamin K and Vitamin C.

Lemon or Lime: This ingredient can come down to a flavor preference if you are a lime or lemon person. Either way, both are excellent sources of Vitamin C and potassium. Your body uses potassium for important muscle contractions.

Red & Green Peppers: The peppers in salsa can often provide sweetness as well, depending on the variety you use. Bell peppers, commonly used in salsas, are packed with Vitamins A and C. They are a great source of antioxidants, helping rid the body of harmful free radicals that can cause disease.

Salsa at Every Meal

Who says salsa was just made for chips? There’s a TON of fun and delicious ways to enjoy salsa at every meal. Replacing prepacked condiments with salsa is an excellent way to include flavor and more vegetables.

Salsa at Breakfast-Breakfast tacos anyone? Salsa pairs great with egg dishes. At breakfast try out a tomato salsa with scrambled eggs in a whole wheat tortilla. You can also top your favorite egg dish with a few scoops of your homemade salsa.

Salsa at Lunch-Salsa packs a ton of flavor and can be a great addition to your next bowl of soup or chili.

Salsa at Dinner-Season your food with salsa instead of salt and other higher sodium rubs. Salsas made with fresh herbs and olive oil can be a great topping to chicken or turkey dishes at dinner time.

Salsa for Snack Time-Salsa and chips make the ultimate pair. However, you can great as creative as you want by using different foods to dip into your salsa. Try out fresh chopped veggies or whole wheat crackers, both provide you with fiber.

Whichever way to decide to enjoy salsa this month, be sure to make enough to share!

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite food to dip into salsa? Let me know in the comment section below!