3-Step Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa Verde
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This three-step avocado tomatillo salsa verde is a quick, creamy salsa made with fresh tomatillos, ripe avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice blended into a smooth, vibrant sauce. The combination of tangy tomatillos and rich avocado creates a bright, balanced flavor that’s perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or dipping with chips. This easy salsa comes together in minutes and adds fresh, zesty flavor to any dish or Cinco de Mayo spread. If you’re looking for more fresh dips and sauces, try my salsa macha or this two-step smoky chipotle salsa.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in just minutes with a blender and minimal prep.
- Fresh and flavorful – Bright tomatillos and lime balance the creamy avocado.
- Versatile – Perfect for tacos, grilled meats, bowls, or as a dip with chips.
Key Ingredients in This Recipe
- Avocado – When shopping for avocados, look for ones that are firm but “give” slightly when gently squeezed in your hand. I recommend using a ripe avocado in this recipe so it blends into the salsa well.
- Tomatillo – Tomatillos grow with a thin, papery husk on the outside which can be easily removed. They look similar to smaller green tomatoes (their name translates in Spanish to little tomato) though they have a more acidic flavor and denser texture than green tomatoes.
- Jalapeños – I use whole jalapeños in this recipe though if you want a more mild salsa I recommend removing the seeds and membrane from the jalapeño. This cuts down on the spice while the jalapeño flavor remains.
A full ingredient list with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Pro Tip
Blend the salsa in short pulses rather than continuously to better control the texture. This helps prevent over-processing, keeping the salsa creamy without becoming too thin or watery.
Swaps and Substitutions
- Tomatillos: Substitute with green tomatoes in a pinch, though the flavor will be less tangy.
- Avocado: Omit for a more traditional salsa verde or add extra for a thicker, creamier texture.
- Jalapeño: Use serrano peppers for more heat or remove seeds for a milder salsa.
- Cilantro: Swap with parsley if you prefer a less traditional flavor.
- Lime juice: Lemon juice can be used for a slightly different citrus note.
How to Make Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa (Step-by-Step)
Add the avocado, tomatillos, jalapeño, onion, garlic, cilantro and lime juice to a blender or a food processor.
Purée until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt.
Serve with tortilla chips or on tacos like these braised tacos al pastor. Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week.
How to Serve Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa
- With tacos: Spoon over carne asada, chicken, or al pastor tacos for added brightness.
- As a dip: Serve with tortilla chips for an easy appetizer.
- With grilled meats: Pair with steak, shrimp, or chicken to cut through richness.
- On bowls: Drizzle over rice bowls, burrito bowls, or roasted vegetables.
How to Store Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.
- Prevent browning: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure.
- Stir before serving: Mix well before serving as separation may occur.
- Do not freeze: Freezing can affect the texture of the avocado.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Avocado tomatillo salsa verde is a creamy green salsa made with tomatillos, avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice blended until smooth.
Yes. You can make avocado tomatillo salsa verde up to 1–2 days in advance, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal color and flavor.
To prevent browning, store avocado tomatillo salsa verde in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to limit air exposure.
Avocado tomatillo salsa verde is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by removing jalapeño seeds or using a milder pepper.
Yes. This avocado tomatillo salsa verde uses raw tomatillos for a fresh, bright flavor, though roasted tomatillos can be used for a deeper, smoky taste
Other Recipes to Try
If you loved this fresh salsa verde, check out the following recipes for your next event:
Thanks for cooking with me! If you made this recipe, leave a 🌟 rating and share your thoughts or tips below. I’d love to hear from you!
Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa Verde
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Ingredients:
- 1 medium avocado, peeled and pitted
- 5 medium tomatillos, husked, rinsed and quartered
- 1 medium jalapeño, roughly chopped
- ½ medium white onion
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- ½ cup packed cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
- Add the avocado, tomatillos, jalapeño, onion, garlic, cilantro and lime juice to a blender or food processor.
- Purée until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt.
- Use or store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes:
Nutrition:
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