Basic Salsa

Directions

Drop the garlic into a small saucepan of boiling water. Let boil, uncovered, over moderate heat for 2 minutes. Drain well, then mince. Place the minced garlic in a medium sized bowl and mix in the tomatoes, onion, coriander, lime juice, and salt. Cover with plastic food wrap and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour. Transfer the mixture to a 1 quart preserving jar.

Keeps in the refrigerator for 10 days. Makes 2⅓ cups.

RED HOT SALSA Increase the garlic to 2 cloves, the lime juice to 1½ tbsp, and add 1 tablespoon chopped jalapeno pepper and ¼ teaspoon red pepper sauce. Proceed as directed.

Notes: Wash hands after handling the pepper! Keep this savory sauce on hand as a dip for taco chips, a topping for scrambled eggs, or an accompaniment for Tex Mex dishes.