Best 6 Cactus Salsa Recipes

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**Savor the Unique Flavors of Cactus Salsa: A Culinary Journey through Mexican Cuisine**

In the heart of Mexican gastronomy lies a hidden gem, a culinary creation that captures the essence of the desert landscape and tantalizes the taste buds with its unique flavors: cactus salsa. This delectable condiment, also known as salsa de nopales, is a vibrant blend of textures and tastes that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Our article presents a collection of carefully curated cactus salsa recipes, each offering a distinct twist on this traditional delicacy. Explore the classic recipe that celebrates the simplicity of fresh cactus paddles, tomatoes, and cilantro, or embark on a culinary adventure with variations that incorporate roasted tomatillos, smoky chipotle peppers, or sweet and tangy pineapple. Whether you prefer a mild salsa for everyday meals or a spicy kick to liven up your gatherings, our recipes cater to every palate. Prepare to be captivated by the delightful crunch of cactus, the refreshing acidity of tomatoes, and the harmonious blend of spices that define this extraordinary salsa. So, gather your ingredients, ignite your culinary passion, and embark on a journey to discover the extraordinary flavors of cactus salsa.

Here are our top 6 tried and tested recipes!

CACTUS SALSA



Cactus Salsa image

Learn how to make the Cactus Salsa also known as Mexican Nopales, a classic appetizer, and a favorite of ours!. It has chopped tomato, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime, cumin, and salt. I am paring it with corn chips.

Provided by Chef Adriana Martin

Categories     Appetizer or Side Dishes

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 pound cactus (raw, diced and cooked)
3 roma tomatoes (diced)
1 purple onion (chopped)
2 jalapeño peppers (deveined and chopped)
1 cup cilantro (roughly chopped)
1 lime
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon sea salt

Steps:

  • Clean and dice the cactus. Add the raw nopales and cover with water. Cook with a tablespoon of sea salt for 10-15 minutes covered. When ready remove the water and rinse several times with iced or cold until slime disappears.
  • Chop all ingredients and mix together with the cooked cactus. Season with sea salt, lime juice, and cumin.
  • Use the cactus salsa as an appetizer with corn chips or as a garnish for salads, tacos, sopes, or tostadas.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 52 kcal, Carbohydrate 11 g, Protein 3 g, Fat 1 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 614 mg, Fiber 4 g, Sugar 4 g, ServingSize 1 serving

CACTUS (NAPALES) SALSA



Cactus (Napales) Salsa image

This is such tasty stuff, years ago a Mexican friend of mine showed me how to prepare cactus leafs. I'm so glad he did as this makes a wonderful salsa. The nice thing with this is you can heat it up or tone it down to your taste. I've actually toned this batch down from my normal salsa as I wanted the flavor of the cactus to...

Provided by Lou Kostura

Categories     Other Snacks

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 1/2 lb cactus leafs, cleaned and diced
4 roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
1 onions, vidalia, peeled and diced
3 jalapenos, fresh minced
4 clove garlic minced
1 bunch cilantro, fresh chopped
6 fresh limes juiced
1 tsp sea salt

Steps:

  • 1. Clean stickers from cactus leafs, cut into 1/4 inch dice. Place in pot of water and boil 10 minutes.
  • 2. Drain and rinse cactus in cold water
  • 3. Mix all ingredients in bowl and refrigerate 2hours. Mix again and serve with chips

CACTUS SALSA



Cactus Salsa image

Yep, you read it right. If you haven't tried cactus yet, this flavorful salsa, with all its fresh veggies and savory seasonings, would be a great start!

Provided by My Food and Family

Categories     Home

Time 15m

Yield 24 servings, 2 Tbsp. each

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 cup canned or jarred prepared cactus, drained, chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup KRAFT Zesty Italian Dressing
1/4 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeño peppers
1/2 tsp. ground cumin

Steps:

  • Mix ingredients until blended.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 20, Fat 1 g, SaturatedFat 0 g, TransFat 0 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 115 mg, Carbohydrate 0 g, Fiber 0 g, Sugar 0 g, Protein 0 g

PRICKLY PEAR SALSA



Prickly Pear Salsa image

I developed this recipe for my special diet after living in Mexico for a couple of years. You can find prickly pear cactus at your grocery store in the specialty food section.-Hope T. Woodhead, Tecate, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Appetizers

Time 15m

Yield 8 cups.

Number Of Ingredients 6

3 large tomatoes, chopped
3 medium Golden Delicious apples, grated
2 cups diced cactus pads
2 small zucchini, grated
1 medium onion, chopped
Juice of 2 limes or lemons

Steps:

  • Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 14 calories, Fat 0 fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 4mg sodium, Carbohydrate 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 0 protein.

CACTUS PICO DE GALLO SALSA



Cactus Pico De Gallo Salsa image

a salsa made with cooked cactus and other fresh ingredients and mexican cheese. This can be used as a dip or over foods as a salsa. My mother fixed this when we we were growing up, I guess because we had cactus growing in our yard and she had to find ways to use the cactus. Cactus is very delicious and can be used in several dishes

Provided by baskin7

Categories     Sauces

Time 15m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 (24 ounce) jar cactus pieces
2 large tomatoes
1 medium yellow onion
2 jalapenos (depends on your taste)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
1/4 lb queso fresco (mexican cheese)
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh garlic

Steps:

  • Rinse cactus well under cold water. Cut the already sliced cactus into small pieces. The cactus also has a serrano in the jar, mince that also.
  • Dice tomatoes, onion, jalapenos (I leave the seeds in, but you can take seeds out) and cilantro. In a large bowl mix all ingredients together, add minced garlic and salt to taste. Crumble Queso Fresco into the mix and add lemon juice. You may want to add a little lemon juice at a time and mix and taste until it is to your liking.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 35.1, Fat 0.2, SaturatedFat 0.1, Sodium 151.3, Carbohydrate 8.3, Fiber 1.8, Sugar 4.2, Protein 1.3

CACTUS SALSA (SALSA DE NOPALITOS)



Cactus Salsa (Salsa De Nopalitos) image

This is a great way to eat healthy cactus. Its great to eat with chips or as a side dish with carne asada. Its fast, simple, and will make your mouth watery!

Provided by Chef Carodriguez

Categories     Sauces

Time 15m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 (32 ounce) jar cactus pieces (Nopalitos)
1 head of small cabbage
1/2 an onion
2 large tomatoes
2 -3 jalapenos
2 -3 lemons, juice of
1 bunch fresh cilantro
pepper or garlic powder

Steps:

  • Drain and rinse nopalitos in a colander.
  • Chop nopalitos in 1/2 inch pieces.
  • Chop cabbage, onion, tomatoes, jalapenos and cilantro.
  • Mix everything in a large serving bowl.
  • Squeeze lemons and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 57.6, Fat 0.4, SaturatedFat 0.1, Sodium 33, Carbohydrate 13.6, Fiber 4.7, Sugar 8, Protein 3

Tips:

  • Choose the right cactus: Look for young, tender cactus paddles without any signs of damage or discoloration.
  • Prepare the cactus properly: Remove the spines and rinse the cactus paddles thoroughly. Cut them into small pieces or strips for easier handling.
  • Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife will help you create clean, even cuts and minimize the risk of injury.
  • Wear gloves when handling cactus: The spines can be sharp and irritating, so it's best to wear gloves to protect your hands.
  • Experiment with different ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients to your cactus salsa, such as chopped onions, cilantro, or jalapeños, to create a unique and flavorful salsa.

Conclusion:

Cactus salsa is a delicious and refreshing salsa that can be enjoyed as a dip, topping, or condiment. It's a great way to add a unique and flavorful twist to your favorite dishes. With its vibrant color and tangy taste, cactus salsa is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!

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