During the height of the “cherry season” ~ try this wonderful Cherry Salsa that’s tart, spicy with a hint of sweetness. Add to layers of tortilla chips and cheeses for the ultimate, updated NACHOS ~ YUM!
This recipe combines spicy, sweet, and tart flavors with a definite updated flair.
Who can resist a beautiful crimson-colored, firm and juicy bing cherry in season?
Yes, they’re great for snacking and baking ~ but they are a wonderful addition to savory dishes, and adds lots of pizzazz.
This salsa is quite easy, I cut out the pits easily with a small pairing knife, you can always invest in a cherry pitter if using cherries in large quantities.
Charring the jalapeño is essential, adds a smokey flavor and interest to the salsa (it’s simple, see recipe.)
Tomatoes are happy in this mix, adds a natural “salsa” element, and foils the sweetness of the cherries.
Make a Purée:
Some of the cherries are cooked with balsamic vinegar, pure cane sugar, filtered water and chipotle powder and then puréed.
This is the key to the salsa – gives body, binds the ingredients, and oh, the gorgeous color! The other ingredients are simply folded in – basil’s the perfect herbal note!
Serve the Salsa:
Wonderful over grilled chicken, skewered shrimp, plant base proteins -or mop up with some good quality tortilla chips.
You have to try: Layered Cheese Nachos with Fresh Cherry Salsa!
Cherries have a healthy side too, one that may actually offer therapeutic benefits to your health, as cherries are rich in antioxidants and many other health-promoting compounds.
Enjoy the first days of Summer!
Karen
