Save A vibrant, sweet-tart salsa with a spicy kick, perfect as a dip or topping for grilled meats and cheese boards.
I first made this salsa for a holiday gathering and loved how the bold flavors wowed everyone. The mix of sweet pears, tart cranberries, and jalapeño made it an instant favorite on our cheese board.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, diced: about 1 ½ cups
- ¾ cup fresh cranberries, chopped: fresh, not dried
- ½ small red onion, finely diced: adds sharpness
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped: for mild heat (use 2 for spicier salsa)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: for herb flavor
- Zest and juice of 1 lime: brightens and lifts taste
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: for a touch of sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon salt: enhances all flavors
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional): gives extra crunch and color
Instructions
- Combine Fruit and Veg:
- Add pears, cranberries, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and optional red bell pepper to a medium bowl.
- Add Zest, Juice, and Sweetener:
- Pour in lime zest, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and sprinkle salt over the top.
- Toss & Mix:
- Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste salsa and add more lime juice or honey if preferred.
- Let Flavors Meld:
- Allow salsa to sit for 10 minutes before serving to blend flavors; serve chilled or at room temperature.
Save My kids especially love scooping this salsa up with tortilla chips before dinner. It's become a tradition to serve it alongside other appetizers at family celebrations.
Serving Ideas
Delicious with tortilla chips, spooned over grilled chicken or fish, and as a bright addition to cheese boards.
Swaps & Variations
Substitute apples for pears for a different take, or use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly salsa.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This salsa is vegan and gluten-free if using maple syrup. It contains no common allergens. Each serving has about 55 calories and 14 grams of carbohydrates.
Save This colorful salsa adds a bright, festive touch to any table. Enjoy the balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors in every bite.
Cooking Questions
- → How spicy is this salsa?
The heat level depends on the amount of jalapeño and whether seeds are included. Seeded peppers yield mild heat, but adding seeds or extra jalapeño makes it spicier.
- → Can I substitute apples for pears?
Yes, apples offer a similar texture and a slightly different sweetness. Choose a crisp variety for best flavor balance.
- → What’s the best way to serve this salsa?
It's delicious as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or an accompaniment for cheese boards.
- → How long does this salsa keep?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time.
- → Is it vegan and allergen-friendly?
It's vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup. It contains no common allergens—always verify labels for guests with specific needs.
- → Can I make it ahead?
Yes, making it ahead lets the flavors blend. Chill for up to 2 days and stir gently before serving for freshness.