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Grilled Chilli Salsa with Rice Crackers

This vibrant grilled chilli salsa is a fantastic vegan appetiser that brings a deep, smoky complexity to your snack table. By charring the tomatoes, garlic and shallots over a hot barbecue, the natural sugars caramelise to create a rich base that perfectly balances the heat of the serrano chillies. Fresh lime juice and plenty of coriander provide a zesty lift that cuts through the smokiness, making it a refreshing choice for summer dining.

Ideal for outdoor entertaining or as a light plant-based starter, this salsa is both healthy and naturally gluten-free when served with crisp rice crackers. It is a wonderfully versatile dip that can be prepared up to eight hours in advance, allowing the bold flavours to meld together. Simply arrange on a large platter and let guests tuck in for a crowd-pleasing homemade treat.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Grilled Chilli Salsa with Rice Crackers

  • 6 large garlic cloves, unpeeled

  • 4 large plum tomatoes (3/4 to 450g total)

  • 4 3-inch-long serrano chillies

  • 4 large shallots, peeled, halved through root end

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1 cup chopped fresh coriander

  • 40ml fresh lime juice

  • Purchased rice crackers

How to make Grilled Chilli Salsa with Rice Crackers

Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Combine garlic, tomatoes, chillies, and shallots in medium bowl. Add oil and toss to coat. Arrange vegetables on barbecue; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill until charred, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes. Using tongs, transfer garlic and vegetables to plate and cool.

Peel garlic; chop coarsely. Chop tomatoes. Cut chillies in half lengthwise; discard seeds and chop chillies coarsely. Chop shallots. Combine all vegetables in medium bowl. Add coriander and lime juice. Blend well; season with salt and pepper. (Salsa can be made 8 hours ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature and stir before using.)

Transfer salsa to serving bowl; place on platter. Surround with rice crackers.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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