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Tomatillo Salsa with Serranos

This vibrant tomatillo salsa with serranos is a classic vegan condiment that brings a bright, tangy lift to any Mexican-inspired feast. By gently boiling the tomatillos and garlic before blending, you mellow their sharp acidity, creating a balanced sauce that highlights the fresh notes of lime and earthy cumin. The addition of serrano chillies provides a crisp heat that cuts through the richness of avocado or fried snacks.

As a versatile addition to your plant-based repertoire, this salsa verde works beautifully drizzled over roasted vegetables, stirred into bean stews, or simply served with corn chips. Because it keeps well in the fridge for several days, it is an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. For the best flavour, ensure you rinse the chopped onions in cold water to remove their harsh bite before pulsing.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Tomatillo Salsa with Serranos

  • 450g tomatillos, husked and rinsed

  • 3 garlic cloves

  • 1 to 2 serrano chillies (depending on heat), stemmed and seeded

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 3/4 teaspoons (or more) kosher salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/8 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • 2 (packed) tablespoons coriander leaves

  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped yellow onion, rinsed in cool water, drained

How to make Tomatillo Salsa with Serranos

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and cook tomatillos 6 minutes. Add garlic and cook with tomatillos for 2 minutes more. Drain and rinse with cool water.

Add tomatillos, garlic, chillies, lime, oil, salt, cumin, and cayenne to a blender or the bowl of a food processor and process until combined but slightly chunky. Add coriander and onion and lightly pulse to combine. Texture should remain slightly chunky. Season with salt if necessary.

Salsa can be made 5 days ahead. Chill in a resealable container.

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.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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