Abuelo’s Salsa Verde Recipe
If you’ve ever eaten at Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant, you already know their salsa game is strong. But what if I told you that you could recreate their famous salsa verde at home—with a tropical pineapple twist? That’s right, this recipe is tangy, zesty, just the right amount of spicy, and ridiculously easy to make.
Forget store-bought jars. Once you whip this up in your own kitchen, chips and salsa night will never be the same.
Table of Contents
Why This Salsa Verde Recipe Works
This salsa verde hits all the right notes:
- Tomatillos give it that signature tangy flavor.
- Jalapeños bring the heat (adjustable depending on how brave you are).
- Fresh cilantro and lime add brightness.
- Sweet pineapple balances everything with a touch of tropical sweetness.
- A splash of honey ties it all together without making it sugary.
It’s bold, it’s fresh, and it pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, or even spooned over eggs in the morning if you’re feeling extra.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8–9 tomatillos, husks removed, rinsed, and boiled
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed (keep some seeds in if you like it hot)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 handful fresh cilantro
- 1 medium sweet onion, cut into chunks
- 4–6 oz ripe pineapple, cored and cut into chunks
- 2 Tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp salt (or more, to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the tomatillos
Start by boiling the tomatillos until they soften and turn a dull green. This usually takes 5–7 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly. (You can also boil the onions and jalapenos.) - Break them down
Toss the tomatillos into a food processor and pulse a few times until they’re just starting to break apart. - Add the flavor crew
Add the jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, onion, pineapple, lime juice, salt, and honey. - Pulse to perfection
Blend until you hit your desired consistency. Some people like their salsa silky smooth, while others prefer a little chunky texture. You do you. - Taste and adjust
Need more heat? Add another jalapeño. Too tangy? A drizzle more honey will mellow it out. Too hot, add lime.
How to Serve Abuelo’s Salsa Verde
- Classic: With a big bowl of tortilla chips.
- Tacos: Drizzle it over carnitas or tacos.
- Breakfast: On scrambled eggs, huevos rancheros, or even avocado toast.
- Dinner Upgrade: Use it as a marinade for grilled shrimp or chicken.
Storage Tips
Homemade salsa verde should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last about 5–7 days (if it doesn’t disappear sooner). Pro tip: The flavors get even better the next day, so try to make it ahead if you’re serving it for a party.
Final Thoughts
Abuelo’s salsa verde may be famous, but now you can bring that restaurant flavor home—with a little tropical twist that makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it at game night, taco Tuesday, or just because you bought way too many tomatillos at the market, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So grab your chips and get dipping.
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