Annie's garden salsa

An extremely simple salsa recipe, mild or hot, that is prepared from items that can be kept around the house for that special occasion. It goes well with pita or tortilla chips, in a Mexican dip like nacho libre, on grilled meats or as a zesty addition to breakfast omelets. Makes a great "bring-to" item for dinners or pot luck events.

Annie's garden salsa

Ingredients

• 1 pound plum tomatoes, cored and chopped.
• ½ small red onion, finely diced.
• 1 garlic clove, chopped.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice.
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley.
• ½ teaspoon salt.
• 1 teaspoon chopped jalapeño pepper, or 3 or 4 dashes hot pepper sauce, optional.

Directions

Drain the chopped tomatoes in a colander, then place in a medium bowl. Stir in the onion, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, bell pepper, salt, and jalapeño pepper, if using.

Let the mixture stand at room temperature, covered, for 2 hours to blend the flavors. Ladle the salsa into jars for presentation, and refrigerate for up to one week.