Fresh Peach Salsa Recipe: A Sweet and Spicy Summer Favourite
Fresh peach salsa is the ultimate celebration of summer flavours vibrant, juicy, and bursting with sweet, spicy, and zesty notes. This versatile condiment is a colourful addition to grilled meats, fish tacos, tortilla chips, or even spooned over your favourite salad.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or whipping up a quick appetiser, fresh peach salsa brings a gourmet touch with minimal effort. Let’s explore how to make this easy, crowd pleasing recipe and creative ways to use it in your everyday meals.
What Is Fresh Peach Salsa?
Fresh peach salsa is a fruit-based salsa that swaps traditional tomatoes for ripe peaches, lending a sweet twist to the classic Mexican dish. Made with just a handful of seasonal ingredients peaches, red onion, chilli, coriander, and lime it balances sweetness with tanginess and a gentle kick of heat. The result is a refreshing topping or dip that’s as visually striking as it is flavourful.
Ingredients for Peach Salsa
For this recipe, freshness is key. Use ripe, slightly soft peaches for maximum sweetness and juiciness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red chilli or jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- A handful of fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- (Optional: 1 small tomato, deseeded and chopped, or ½ red bell pepper for colour)
How to Make Fresh Peach Salsa
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
If your peaches are firm, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water to loosen the skins. Peel, pit, and dice them into small cubes.
Step 2: Chop and Combine
Finely chop the red onion, chilli, and coriander. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, including lime juice and seasoning. Gently stir to mix, taking care not to mash the peaches.
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
Let the salsa sit for at least 15–20 minutes in the fridge. This allows the flavours to meld beautifully and enhances the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh peach salsa is as flexible as it is flavourful. Here are some of our favourite pairings:
- Grilled Meats: Serve it atop grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak to add a fruity contrast.
- Fish & Seafood: Spoon it over grilled salmon, cod, or prawn tacos for a refreshing twist.
- Chips & Crackers: Offer it as a vibrant dip with tortilla chips or seeded crackers.
- Salads & Bowls: Add to grain bowls, summer salads, or quinoa dishes for colour and tang.
- Cheese Boards: Pair it with soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie for a gourmet touch.
Customisation Ideas
Tailor your peach salsa to your taste or the ingredients you have on hand:
- Add Avocado: For creaminess and extra texture, stir in diced avocado just before serving.
- Tropical Twist: Add mango or pineapple for a mixed-fruit salsa.
- More Heat: Use a hotter chilli or add a dash of hot sauce for spice lovers.
- Tomato Fusion: Blend in cherry tomatoes for a hybrid peach-tomato salsa.
Storing Peach Salsa
Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Due to the fresh ingredients, it’s best enjoyed soon after making. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruit will deteriorate.
When Are Peaches in Season in the UK?
British peaches are typically in season from late July through September, making this the perfect time to whip up a batch of peach salsa using locally grown produce. If you can’t find fresh peaches, nectarines work well too — and they don’t require peeling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes.
- No Cooking Needed: Ideal for hot summer days.
- Healthy & Fresh: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
- Beautiful Presentation: A colourful dish for any table.
- Bursting with Flavour: Sweet, tangy, spicy — all in one bite.
FAQs About Fresh Peach Salsa
Q: Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
A: Fresh is best for texture and flavour, but drained canned peaches or thawed frozen peaches can be used in a pinch. Choose varieties with no added sugar.
Q: How do I know if a peach is ripe?
A: A ripe peach will yield slightly to gentle pressure and smell sweet at the stem end. Avoid overly hard or mushy ones.
Q: What can I use instead of coriander?
A: Flat-leaf parsley or mint can be used as a substitute for coriander if you’re not a fan of its flavour.
Final Thoughts
Fresh peach salsa is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavours and easy prep. It’s a standout addition to summer menus, bringing a unique blend of sweet and savoury that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re entertaining guests or elevating a weeknight dinner, this colourful salsa delivers freshness in every bite.