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3-Ingredient Grilled and Fresh Tomato Salsa

This vibrant grilled and fresh tomato salsa is a brilliant vegan addition to any Mexican-inspired feast or summer barbecue. By combining charred, smoky grilled vegetables with crisp, raw tomatoes, you create a depth of flavour that shop-bought jars simply cannot match. The gentle heat from the jalapeño and the sweetness of the softened white onion provide a perfectly balanced savoury profile.

Ideal for serving with crunchy tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled vegetables and tacos, this versatile condiment is naturally healthy and low in fat. You can easily prepare this dish a day in advance to let the flavours marry together, making it an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining or a simple homemade snack.

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Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Grilled and Fresh Tomato Salsa

  • 4 medium tomatoes (about 90g ), divided

  • Olive oil (for brushing)

  • 1 large white onion, cut into 1/4" rounds

  • 1 jalapeño, seeded if desired, finely chopped

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

Prepare a grill or grill pan for medium-high heat. Slice 2 tomatoes in half and brush each half with oil. Brush onion with oil. Transfer onions and tomatoes halves to hot grill and cook, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and softened, about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

Remove seeds from remaining 2 tomatoes and cut into 1/4" cubes. Transfer to a medium bowl. Add jalapeño and salt and toss to combine. Finely chop cooled onions and tomatoes, then add to raw tomato mixture and toss to combine.

Salsa can be made 1 day ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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