Fresh, Vibrant Salsa with Gut-Healing Properties
During the isolation brought on by the pandemic, I was inspired to experiment in my kitchen here in Canada. One of the gems I discovered was this delightful salsa recipe, versatile enough to suit different palates while packed full of ingredients that offer health benefits. And let's be real: Who doesn't love a good salsa?
The Healing Powers of Tomatoes
Rich in Antioxidants
One of the most celebrated nutrients in tomatoes is lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants like lycopene fight free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress. This can help in preventing a range of diseases including certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and age-related macular degeneration.
Cardiovascular Health
Tomatoes are also rich in potassium, a nutrient vital for maintaining heart health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure by balancing out the negative effects of salt and aiding in the dilation of blood vessels.
Digestive Health
Tomatoes contain a fair amount of fiber and fluid, both of which help to support a healthy digestive system and prevent constipation. Fiber is essential for promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which is a hot topic in the naturopathic community.
Immune Support
Tomatoes contain good levels of vitamin C, another antioxidant that plays a crucial role in immune function. Vitamin C aids in the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Skin Health
The combination of nutrients like vitamin C and lycopene in tomatoes is beneficial for skin health. These nutrients may help protect your skin against sunburns and age-related skin changes.
Nightshade Consideration
However, it's essential to note that tomatoes belong to the nightshade family. Nightshades contain compounds that may irritate the gut lining or trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those with autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammatory conditions. If you're concerned about gut health or are dealing with chronic issues, it may be worth consulting a naturopath to determine whether nightshades like tomatoes are appropriate for your diet.
Cherry tomatoes grown in my mother’s garden. It does not get better than this.
Nutritional Spotlight: The Ingredients
Cilantro: Known for its detoxifying properties, cilantro can aid in cleansing the liver. Its unique flavor also brings a refreshing kick to the salsa.
Garlic: This humble bulb is packed with allicin, known for its potent antibacterial properties.
Red Onion: A prebiotic that supports gut health, red onions also add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
Lime: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, lime juice contributes to immune support.
Jalapeno Pepper: While adding a spicy punch, jalapenos are rich in capsaicin, which can aid in metabolism. However, just like tomatoes, they belong to the nightshade family.
Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices not only add depth to your salsa but also contain health benefits like aiding in digestion.
The Recipe
Ingredients
4 cups of cherry tomatoes or 5 large heirloom tomatoes (Choose organic, outdoor-grown for the best flavor)
1/2 large red onion
3 cloves of garlic
Juice of 2 limes
1/2 bunch of cilantro
1/2 jalapeno pepper (optional)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Fine sea salt, to taste
Directions
Add all the ingredients to a food processor.
Pulse until combined but still chunky. This texture gives your salsa that authentic homemade feel.
Use a fine strainer to remove some of the excess liquid, ensuring your salsa is rich and flavorful, not watery.
More tomatoes grown in my mother’s garden. Selecting the highest quality raw ingredients ensures a fantastic dish!
How to Enjoy This Salsa
This salsa is perfect with cassava flour tortilla chips and homemade guacamole. You can even use it as a salad dressing or a refreshing topping. If you’re looking to limit starch intake, pair it with chopped veggies like bell peppers, celery, and cucumbers.
My go-to chips for this salsa are Siete almond flour tortillas, which I toast in the oven. They contain the fewest possible ingredients and have no added oil, making them a healthier option.
If you give this recipe a try, please tag me on IG @davida.light—I'd love to hear your thoughts!
