In a way, Mexican restaurants are always celebrating salsa, but especially in May. Why, you ask? Because it’s National Salsa Month, of course! Just like at all Mexican restaurants, salsa is very important to us here at Los Primos. But did you know that salsa has been around for centuries and there are many different types? And if you did know that, do you know what makes them different?
Let’s take a look at the kinds of salsa you’ll find at your favorite Mexican restaurants.
Salsa Roja
Anyone who remembers their elementary school Spanish can guess that this is red salsa. It’s the most common salsa and the one you’re going to find in the grocery store. It is made with ripe tomatoes, which is what gives it its bright red color. There are many varieties of salsa roja, but the basic ingredients are tomatoes, onions, and peppers. How hot the salsa is depends on what kind of peppers are used to make it.
Salsa Verde
It won’t surprise you to learn that salsa verde is green salsa. Made from tomatillos instead of tomatoes, salsa verde is naturally acidic and does not need additions like lime juice that you often find in salsa roja. But just like salsa roja, salsa verde’s other basic ingredients are onions and hot peppers.
Salsa Taqueria
Though similar to salsa roja, the hallmark of salsa taqueria is its smooth consistency. While salsa roja is often chunky, the ingredients of salsa taqueria are blended together until smooth. Often topping tacos (hence the name), salsa taqueria is usually spicier than salsa roja. Arbol chilis are a common choice to give salsa taqueria its signature kick.
Pico de Gallo
Another popular topping for tacos, pico de gallo is the odd man out in the salsa lineup. While most salsas are made from cooked ingredients, pico de gallo is comprised of finely chopped raw ingredients. Its recognizable look comes from the bright colors of chopped onions, tomatoes, and peppers mixed together. Topped off with lime juice and cilantro, pico de gallo has a crisp texture and is delicious on top of a taco or inside a burrito. It can be spicy with hot peppers or mild with bell peppers.
Enjoy Salsa at Mexican Restaurants
If reading through this list is making you crave salsa, come to Los Primos! We serve authentic Mexican food that you will love when it’s topped off with our delicious salsa. Come visit us and try some salsa and maybe a margarita! We’ll quickly become one of your favorite Mexican restaurants.