Strawberry Salsa

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Sweet, spicy, and tangy – the perfect gourmet glaze or condiment

This Strawberry Salsa is unlike any salsa you’ve tried before. By roasting fresh strawberries, we bring out their natural sweetness and create a deep, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the heat of jalapeños and the tang of balsamic vinegar. Finished with savory spices and umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, this versatile condiment works just as well as a glaze for meats as it does as a dipping sauce or salad dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unique flavor profile – A creative twist on salsa with roasted strawberries and bold spices.
  • Versatile – Works as a glaze, dressing, dip, or condiment for meats, vegetables, and more.
  • Balanced taste – Perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
  • Impressive yet simple – Gourmet results without complicated steps.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb strawberries, washed, hulled, and cut into halves or quarters
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
  • ½ small sweet onion, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 3 to 4 jalapeños, chopped (with or without seeds, depending on spice preference)
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 ½ tsp grated ginger
  • 2 tsp tomato paste
  • ¼ cup dark brown sugar
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Roast the strawberries
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Toss the strawberries with light brown sugar, then spread them in a single layer on the sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, until softened and caramelized. Set aside.

2. Cook the aromatics
In a skillet over medium-low heat, warm the oil. Add the onion, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent.

3. Add the spice and heat
Stir in the jalapeños and cook until tender. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

4. Build the sauce base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

5. Add liquids and sweetness
Mix in the dark brown sugar, ketchup, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.

6. Incorporate the strawberries
Add the roasted strawberries along with any juice from the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 18–20 minutes, until thickened.

7. Blend until smooth
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serving Suggestions

  • Brush over grilled chicken, pork, or beef as a glaze.
  • Spoon over roasted vegetables for a gourmet touch.
  • Use as a dipping sauce for fried appetizers or cheese boards.
  • Drizzle over salads for a fruity-spicy dressing.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Salsa takes classic sweet-and-spicy pairings to the next level. Roasting the strawberries adds depth and richness, while the balance of heat, tang, and savory notes makes it endlessly versatile. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is a must-try.