Easy Pineapple Salsa Recipe (Fresh or Grilled)

5 from 6 votes

This pineapple salsa recipe is packed with sweet pineapple, spicy pepper, and juicy tomato. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it’s quick and easy to whip up! Includes directions for fresh or grilled pineapple salsa.

Pineapple salsa served in the pineapple on an orange background.

Introducing our easy pineapple salsa – a tropical delight that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. Created with a combination of juicy pineapple, vibrant bell pepper, zesty jalapeno, and the perfect blend of spices, this salsa is an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Whether you opt for the fresh version or decide to grill the ingredients for a smoky twist, this easy-to-make pineapple salsa will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the irresistible flavors that await.

⭐️ Pro-tip: If you really want to impress, you can serve it in a hollowed out pineapple. If you just want salsa ASAP, you can skip the grilling part. It’s a flexible and forgiving salsa, and I think you’re going to love it.

Pineapple Salsa Ingredients

Head to the produce section and grab a few key ingredients to whip up this tropical salsa.

Pineapple: The star ingredient, providing a sweet and tangy flavor that adds a tropical twist to the salsa.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a vibrant color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor to the salsa, complementing the pineapple perfectly.
Red Onion: Offers a mild onion flavor and a crisp texture. It adds a touch of sharpness and depth to the salsa.
Jalapeno: Brings a kick of heat and a subtle smoky flavor to the salsa. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level (or use another type of pepper if you’re feeling adventurous).
Tomatoes: Provide a juicy and refreshing element to the salsa, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple. Most types of tomatoes work well here.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic and savory notes.
Salt & Cumin: We’re keeping the seasonings simple with this one, but feel free to throw in any of your favorites! Chili powder, paprika, and cayenne all work well here.

Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple

Fresh and canned pineapple rings both work well for this salsa! Check out our guide to cutting pineapple here.

How To Make Pineapple Salsa

You’re just three steps away from delicious pineapple salsa (and one of those steps is optional!)

Step 1: Grill (Optional)
Grilling the pineapple slices, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeno brings a delightful smoky flavor to the salsa. The heat of the grill adds a subtle char and caramelization, enhancing the natural sweetness of the ingredients. Once done, remove them from the heat and get ready to assemble a sensational pineapple salsa.

Step 2: Assemble
You have the flexibility to choose the texture of your salsa.

For a chunky salsa, simply roughly chop the grilled ingredients, along with the tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno, and pineapple. Toss them together with the minced garlic, salt, and cumin, allowing the flavors to meld together.
For a smoother consistency, transfer all the ingredients to a food processor and give it a few quick pulses until you reach the desired texture. This method ensures a more uniform salsa with a finer texture, similar to restaurant style salsa.

Ingredients for pineapple salsa in a food processor.

Step 3: Serve!
After assembling the salsa according to your preferred consistency, cover it and refrigerate for about an hour to allow the flavors to blend and intensify. This chilling time also helps to enhance the overall texture and freshness of the salsa. Once chilled, serve the pineapple salsa alongside your favorite dishes or as a refreshing dip with tortilla chips.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spiciness level?

Absolutely! The heat level can be adjusted according to your preference. If you like it mild, remove the jalapeno seeds and membranes. For a spicier salsa, include them or add an extra jalapeno.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the salsa?

Yes, feel free to customize the salsa to your taste. You can add diced mango, cilantro, lime juice, or even a touch of honey to enhance the flavors and create variations.

Is this salsa suitable for dietary restrictions?

This pineapple salsa is naturally gluten-free and vegan. However, if you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, make sure to check the ingredients to ensure they align with your needs.

For the salsa lovers

There are two types of people in the world: those who make their own salsa, and those who don’t. Here are a few more homemade salsa recipes for the salsa makers out there!