Begin by washing 4 ripe tomatoes under cool running water. Dice them into small pieces, ensuring even cuts for a uniform texture. Set the diced tomatoes aside in a large mixing bowl.

Next, peel and finely chop 1 small red onion. Aim for a dice that’s small enough to blend seamlessly into the salsa without overpowering the flavor. Add the chopped onion to the bowl with the diced tomatoes.

Seed and mince 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers, depending on your spice preference. Add the minced jalapeños to the tomato and onion mixture in the bowl.

Mince 2 garlic cloves finely and incorporate them into the salsa mixture, stirring gently.

Roughly chop 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl, mixing everything together.

Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the salsa mixture, ensuring there are no seeds left.

Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, adjusting these to taste. Mix thoroughly.

Let the salsa sit for 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.

After resting, give it one final stir and taste for seasoning. Serve your vibrant homemade salsa with tortilla chips, atop grilled chicken, or as a topping for tacos.