Crunchy Pear Salsa

I was skeptical about using pears in this salsa because…really…who makes salsa with pears?

You never know until you try, right? Plus it’s about time I switched things up from the usual tomato version.
I really shouldn’t be so skeptical....fruit based salsas are among my favorites! 

Their sweetness contrasts perfectly with salty tortilla chips and they’re right at home on top of grilled chicken or pan-fried fish.

Like most homemade salsas, this one needs some "alone time" before you dig in. I tasted it immediately after making it and did another round of tasting thirty minutes after it chilled in the fridge.

There was a BIG difference!

The chilling time allowed the flavors to combine and build.

When I took a taster of the chilled version I almost ended up eating it all with a spoon!

What can I say...this dish turned me into a believer that pears have a place in salsa!

Beware of the Jalapeno Sting!

When chopping a jalapeno pepper, its seeds and membrane can leave a residue on your fingers that may not necessarily come off even after washing your hands with soap and water.

I learned this lesson the hard way.

I cut a jalapeno, washed my hands (thinking the residue would come off) and 10 minutes later (while driving my car), I rubbed my eyes. That's a sting I'll never forget. Just a heads up! = ]

Crunchy Pear Salsa

A sweet and spicy fruit based salsa made with ripe pears

Recipe Inspiration: Adapted from Bon Appetit Magazine
Makes:  1 cup salsa 

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: nada 

2 pears, peeled, cored and finely chopped

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced

2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tsp sugar
salt and pepper

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

Cover and let chill for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to combine.

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Roasted Jalapeno Mango Salsa