Leslie Cooks In a Van

Cooking Adventures on the Road — Delicious Food, Tiny Space, Big Flavors

Salsa Verde

I jokingly call Salsa Verde my favorite food group. It’s basically my go-to condiment for everything, from tacos to eggs, and I love having a jar in the fridge at all times. But making it in a van? That’s a bit tricky—unless you’ve got a grill and a blender! Luckily, with just those two tools, you’re all set to whip up this vibrant, spicy salsa that will knock your socks off. 😋🔥

Here’s what you’ll need (makes about one quart):

  • 8-10 tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed 🌿
  • 1 jalapeño (if you prefer, reduce heat by removing seeds after it is roasted!) 🌶️
  • 1 poblano pepper 🫑
  • 3-4 garlic cloves (don’t peel yet!) 🧄
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided 🛢️
  • 1 medium white onion, quartered or roughly chopped 🧅
  • A big handful of cilantro 🌱
  • Juice of 1-2 limes 🍋
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt, divided 🧂

Let’s get roasting! You can choose here between using and oven (or air fryer) and grill)

🔥 Oven:
Line a baking sheet with parchment, toss the peppers and tomatillos with half a tablespoon of oil and 1/2 tsp salt. Wrap unpeeled garlic in foil with a little oil, and add to the sheet. Roast at 450°F for 15-20 mins until everything’s soft and a little charred.

🔥 Grill:
Toss the veggies in half a tablespoon oil and a pinch of salt, then grill over medium-high heat until browned and tender—turning once or twice. Wrap the garlic in foil and toss it on the grill too. Roasting peels and charring brings out the best flavor!

Blend it up!
Peel and seed the poblano pepper, and seed the jalepeno if you are looking to reduce the spice level. Peel the garlic once roasted and toss all veggies, the onion, cilantro, lime juice, and remaining salt into a blender or food processor. Blend until mostly smooth—leave a little texture for that perfect salsa bite. Taste and add more salt if needed.

Store & enjoy!
Let it cool a bit, then transfer to a jar. Perfect for tacos, chips, eggs, or spooning straight into your mouth! 😉

This smoky, spicy Salsa Verde is my secret weapon—and now it can be yours too. Whether you’re cooking in a tiny van or just craving bold flavors, this recipe is your new best friend. 🌟

Salsa Verde in all its glory

Roasting the peppers, tomatillos and garlic deepens the flavor


2 responses to “Delicious & Spicy Salsa Verde”

  1. Julie Walczak (former fav colleague) Avatar
    Julie Walczak (former fav colleague)

    I need to try this at home — soooo love enjoying this out at restaurants. Thanks for the ideas and recipe!!

    1. lesliecooksinavan_p65rz4 Avatar

      Hello! I hope you enjoy it, and that you are doing awesome!

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