Name: Irresistibly Fresh Peach Cherry Salsa for Summer Snacking
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Peaches (ripe but firm, can substitute with nectarines); 1 cup Cherries (pitted and firm, can substitute with mango); 1 Jalapeño (adjust quantity to taste, can use bell pepper for milder salsa); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (preferably freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup Red Onion (can replace with green onions for milder taste); 1 clove Garlic (optional, can use garlic powder instead)

There's nothing quite like the burst of fresh flavors that come together in a vibrant bowl of Peach Cherry Salsa. As summer rolls in, I find myself craving bright, juicy produce that can elevate any meal or snack, and this salsa delivers just that. Imagine the sweetness of ripe peaches paired with the deep, rich flavor of cherries, all brought to life with a zesty kick of jalapeño. It's a delightful combination that not only tickles the taste buds but also brightens up your kitchen with its lively colors.

I first whipped up this fresh salsa when I was hosting a casual gathering with friends, wanting something that was easy to make but would wow everyone at the same time. The result? A hit that disappeared in minutes, leaving everyone coming back for more. Perfect with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats, this Peach Cherry Salsa is a flexible, healthy option that's become a staple in my home. Get ready to bring a burst of summer to your table!

Why will you love this Peach Cherry Salsa?

Vibrant Colors: The combination of peaches and cherries creates a stunning mosaic that brightens up any dish.

Packed with Flavor: Sweet, juicy fruit meets a spicy twist, making it an exciting addition to your summer menu.

Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a dip with chips, a topping for meats, or as part of a festive appetizer spread.

Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, this salsa comes together in no time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your gathering.

Healthy Choice: Fresh ingredients mean you're providing a nutritious, low-calorie snack that everyone will love. Want more summer-friendly recipes? Check out our collection of delightful salsa options to elevate your meals!

Peach Cherry Salsa Ingredients

• Dive into the fresh goodness of Peach Cherry Salsa with this simple ingredient list!

For the Salsa

Peaches – Adds sweetness and juiciness; use ripe but firm peaches for best texture. Substitute with nectarines if unavailable.
Cherries – Provides a deep, sweet flavor; ensure they’re pitted and firm. Can be swapped with mango for a tropical twist.
Jalapeño – Introduces heat and complexity; adjust quantity to taste based on spice tolerance. For milder salsa, use bell pepper instead.
Lime Juice – Offers acidity to balance sweetness and preserves color; freshly squeezed lime is preferred over bottled.
Red Onion – Adds sharpness and crunch; can be replaced with green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic (optional) – Enhances flavor depth; omit if preferred or use garlic powder for convenience.

How to Make Peach Cherry Salsa

Prep the Fruit: Blanch peaches in hot water for 30 seconds to ease peeling. Pit cherries and chop both into small, even pieces to ensure a delightful texture in your salsa.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix diced peaches, pitted cherries, finely chopped jalapeño, lime juice, diced red onion, and optional garlic. This combination brings all those vibrant flavors together!
Mix Well: Stir until all ingredients are evenly blended, allowing the sweetness of the fruit to meld with the spice from the jalapeño beautifully.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors, giving time for all the wonderful ingredients to marry together.
Serve: Allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best taste—a little warmth brings out the flavor even more.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Fresh Peach Cherry Salsa?

Elevate your summer gatherings with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant burst of flavors in this fruity salsa.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, they add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy salsa.
Grilled Chicken Tacos: These tacos can be enhanced by the fresh salsa, adding layers of flavor and color to your meal.
Fish Tacos: A refreshing twist is achieved when topped with this salsa, matching the fish's delicate flavors with fruity sweetness.
Pork Chops: The sweetness of the peaches and cherries perfectly balances the savory notes of grilled pork, creating a harmonious dish.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, it makes an excellent companion to the bright, zesty salsa for a fantastic appetizer spread.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Rosé brings out the crisp notes of this salsa while keeping the vibe light.
Strawberry Lemonade: A refreshing drink that echoes the fruity flavors of the salsa adds an extra layer of fun to your summer setup.
Coconut Rice: Served alongside, it provides a subtle sweetness that complements the salsa while adding a unique texture contrast.
Mini Skewers: Grilled vegetables or shrimp skewers can be topped with peach cherry salsa for a colorful and flavorful bite-sized treat.

Expert Tips for Peach Cherry Salsa

Choose Firm Fruit: Always select peaches and cherries that are firm to avoid a mushy salsa; overly ripe fruit can ruin the texture.
Blanch for Ease: Blanching peaches in hot water for 30 seconds makes peeling effortless, resulting in a better texture for your salsa.
Taste Test Jalapeños: Check the heat level of jalapeños before adding. Always start with less and gradually increase to get your ideal spice level without overwhelming the flavors.
Chill for Flavors: Refrigerate your Peach Cherry Salsa for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Consider Fresh Herbs: For an aromatic touch, add chopped fresh cilantro or mint, which can enhance the flavor profile and freshness of your salsa.

Make Ahead Options

These Peach Cherry Salsa preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop and combine all the ingredients—peaches, cherries, jalapeño, lime juice, red onion, and optional garlic—up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, allow the salsa to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this enhances the interplay of flavors. Keep in mind that storing it longer than 3 days may cause the texture to change, so aim to enjoy it within that time frame. When ready to serve, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to bring out the vibrant flavors, providing a delightful snack that's just as fresh as when you first made it!

Peach Cherry Salsa Variations

Embrace your creativity and tailor this salsa to your taste with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Omit any cheese for a light, fresh salsa that’s perfect for everyone.
Herb-Infused: Add finely chopped cilantro or mint to brighten the flavors and bring an aromatic freshness to the mix.
Fruity Boost: Swap cherries for diced mango or pineapple for a tropical punch that will transport you to summer beaches!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder to add depth and a subtle smokiness, elevating the overall taste profile.
Crunchy Texture: Mix in diced bell peppers for an extra crunch and some vibrant color that visually entices as much as it pleases the palate.
No Heat Option: Instead of jalapeño, use finely diced cucumber for a refreshing salsa that’s perfect for those who prefer milder flavors.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle in some toasted pecans or walnuts for delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the fruity base.
Citrus Zing: Experiment with a splash of orange juice or zest to layer in another refreshing citrus note that enhances the sweetness of the fruit.

How to Store and Freeze Peach Cherry Salsa

Fridge: Store any leftover Peach Cherry Salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze your salsa in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Reheating: This salsa is best enjoyed cold; however, if you prefer it warm, gently heat it on the stove over low heat just until warmed through.
Airtight Options: Ensure your storage container is airtight to prevent absorption of odors and maintain the vibrant colors of your salsa.

Peach Cherry Salsa Recipe FAQs

What kind of peaches should I use for the salsa?
Absolutely! Use ripe but firm peaches for the best texture and sweetness. If you can’t find peaches, nectarines make a great substitute as they offer a similar flavor and juicy crunch.

How should I store my leftover Peach Cherry Salsa?
To keep your salsa fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better after chilling, so it’s well worth the wait! Just remember to give it a gentle stir before enjoying.

Can I freeze Peach Cherry Salsa?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer the salsa to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Make sure to leave some space for expansion—freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be fantastic!

What if my salsa turns out too watery?
Very! If you find your salsa is too watery, this can often be due to overly ripe fruit or excess moisture from the vegetables. To fix it, you can drain off some of the liquid gently or mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. If you’ve got more time, try letting the salsa rest in a colander for 30 minutes to allow some moisture to drain away before serving.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salsa?
Certainly! This salsa is naturally gluten-free and low in calories, making it a healthy option for most diets. However, if you're serving it to pets, remember that onions are not safe for dogs. Always double-check for any fruit allergies, especially from cherries or peaches, before sharing with friends and family.

How do I know if my jalapeño is the right spice level?
The more the merrier! Taste your jalapeño slice before dicing it; this gives you the best idea of its heat level. If you prefer milder salsa, start with just a small amount, and taste for spice as you mix. You can always add more to meet your heat tolerance!