Fresh Honeycrisp apples, sweet red bell pepper, sharp red onion, cilantro, a whisper of jalapeño, and a lime-and-honey dressing that ties it all together. This is the salsa people ask you to bring to every summer party, then follow you around the kitchen asking for the recipe. It takes ten minutes to make and tastes better after an hour in the fridge.
Because the apple stays raw and dressed in acid, choose one that holds its crunch. Honeycrisp is our top pick every time. Cortland is another wonderful option since it barely browns — ideal for a salsa that'll sit on the party table. Order fresh from our orchard by clicking here, and pick up some Farm Fresh Honey for the dressing while you're at it.
Ingredients (makes about 2 1/2 cups)
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced small
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced small
- 1/3 cup red onion, diced small
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and minced (or leave seeds in for extra heat)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon Farm Fresh Honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 small avocado, diced; 1 minced garlic clove
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine the apples, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
- Whisk the lime juice and honey together in a small bowl until the honey dissolves.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salsa and toss gently.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes (an hour is better) to let the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust lime, honey, or salt just before serving.
How to Serve It
- With tortilla chips or sturdy pita chips.
- Over grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or fish — salmon is exceptional.
- On tacos — fish, shrimp, or carnitas.
- Alongside a cheese board — the freshness cuts through rich cheeses beautifully.
- Stirred into a bowl of black beans and rice for a quick weeknight dinner.
Tips & Variations
- Dice uniformly. A small, even dice makes for the prettiest, most scoopable salsa.
- Add fruit. Diced mango, peach, or pineapple all work beautifully.
- Make it creamy. Fold in a diced avocado just before serving.
- Turn up the heat. A pinch of chipotle chili powder or minced serrano.
- Prep ahead. Keeps up to 3 days refrigerated, crispest on day one.
Made this? Send us a photo — we'll send you a coupon for 20% off your next order. Comment below or email [email protected]. Enjoy!
