Peach Salsa with Fresh Lime

This homemade peach salsa is a bright and tangy summer favorite that livens up any meal or snack table. Juicy peaches, crunchy red bell pepper, spicy jalapeno, and fresh herbs mix together for a refreshing combination that balances sweetness, heat, and savory notes. It is quick to put together and makes the best use of ripe summer peaches with absolutely no cooking required.

I discovered this salsa one August when I was overwhelmed with a farmers market haul of peaches. After mixing up a bowl and letting it chill, it instantly became the most requested recipe at my family’s taco nights and BBQs. Everyone is always surprised by how much flavor comes from just a handful of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• Ripe peaches: Give this salsa its signature juicy flavor. Look for fruit that yields slightly to pressure and smells fragrant at the stem. They should be firm enough to dice without falling apart
• Red bell pepper: Adds crunch and a pop of color. Choose peppers with glossy, unblemished skin for the best texture
• Red onion: Provides a sharp bite that elevates the sweetness of the peaches. Opt for onions with tight, shiny skins and no soft spots
• Jalapeno peppers: Bring a gentle heat. Pick brightly colored peppers that feel firm. If you want less spice, remove the seeds and membranes
• Fresh cilantro: Adds herbal freshness. Use leaves that are bright green and not wilted
• Fresh lime juice: Brings necessary acidity to balance the flavors. Always use real limes for the brightest flavor
• Honey: Can help if your peaches are not at their peak. Choose a floral, light honey for subtle sweetness
• Ground cumin: Deepens the overall flavor. Use a fresh-smelling ground cumin for the best aroma. This is optional but highly recommended by my family
• Salt and black pepper: Let all the ingredients shine. Use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper when possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Produce:

Peel and dice the peaches into small, even pieces so every bite gets a mix of flavors. Dice the red bell pepper finely for extra crunch and the red onion for a tangy edge. Mince the jalapeno carefully, adjusting to your spice preference

Mix the Salsa:

Place the peaches, red bell pepper, onion, and jalapeno in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to combine so the peach juices coat the vegetables without mashing them

Add the Flavor:

Chop the fresh cilantro and fold it in. Squeeze the lime over everything. Drizzle with honey if the peaches need extra sweetness. Sprinkle in cumin for added warmth if using. Season to taste with salt and pepper

Let the Flavors Meld:

Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes. This rest time allows the lime juice to soften the onions and the flavors to marry for a more harmonious salsa

Serve and Enjoy:

Give everything a good stir before serving. Scoop generously with tortilla chips, or spoon over grilled chicken, tacos, pork, seafood, or even salad

Save Pin

This salsa reminds me of the first time my kids begged for seconds at a summer picnic. The peaches were perfectly ripe, and the bowl disappeared instantly. My favorite ingredient is fresh cilantro. It transforms the whole dish with its herbal brightness.

Storage Tips

Peach salsa tastes best within a day or two of mixing. Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge and use within three days. The flavors will become even more intense as it sits but the texture may soften over time. I do not recommend freezing since the peaches will become mushy and watery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If peaches are not available you can swap in nectarines or even mango for a similar effect. White peaches give a slightly different flavor but still work beautifully. If you dislike cilantro, try fresh mint or flat leaf parsley instead. Green bell pepper is a fine substitute if you want a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Spoon this salsa on top of grilled shrimp tacos for a delightful twist. It is also perfect over grilled pork chops or as a vibrant side for roasted chicken. Try mixing it into a garden salad for an unexpected boost or stir into cooked quinoa for a quick lunch bowl.

Save Pin

Cultural Context

Fruit salsas like this one are inspired by Mexican and Central American traditions of pairing sweet tropical fruits with fresh chiles and citrus. This combination highlights the best flavors of summer and brings a little sweetness to classic savory dishes.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ How do I choose the best peaches?

Select peaches that are fully ripe but still firm for the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Overripe fruit can turn mushy when mixed.

→ Can I use other peppers instead of red bell pepper?

Yes, you can substitute with yellow or green bell peppers, or even add a bit of poblano for a different twist on flavor and color.

→ How do I make it milder or spicier?

For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeno. For more spice, include some seeds or add a pinch of chili powder.

→ What other ways can I serve this salsa?

It's delicious with tortilla chips, but also works as a vibrant topping for tacos, grilled meats, salads, or seafood dishes.

→ How long will it keep in the refrigerator?

Store the salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as flavors may intensify over time.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Try adding avocado, diced tomatoes, pineapple, or mango for extra texture or a tropical twist. A dash of cumin adds earthy depth.