Have you ever tried fruit-based salsa? I always thought salsa had to be tomato-based (anything else just seemed weird). For a long while, I was hesitant to try it. I don’t know why I waited so long, because it’s definitely delicious. Since I had 2 ripe pineapples that needed to be used up anyway, this recipe for homemade Pineapple Salsa worked perfectly!

To make Pineapple Salsa, you will need:

*  2 Cups pineapple, diced

*  1 red onion, finely diced

*  1 red pepper, finely diced

*  1 jalapeno, finely diced  (Can use 2, but it’s very spicy)

*  1 TSP of garlic

*  Juice of 2 limes

*  Salt/pepper  (be generous)

*  3 TSP chopped cilantro  (optional)

Combine all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Allow the flavors to marinate for at least an hour. Pineapple salsa is best served at room temperature. I love to spoon it over pita or tortilla chips. If you want to be adventurous, try the blue corn variety.

Salsa doesn’t have to be strictly a snack food. Try incorporating it into any of these dishes:

*  Burger topper

*  Mixed with rice

*  Layered on a sandwich

*  Used like a chutney with meat

*  Tacos

*  Stuffed eggplant, peppers, or zucchini

*  Bruschetta

*  Gazpacho

*  Meatloaf  (beef or turkey)

*  Chicken salad

If you don’t have any pineapple, feel free to substitute mango, peaches, or nectarines. I’ve only made the pineapple kind, but the other fruits are on my list for future cooking projects.