Jicama Salsa

This refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional salsa is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.

The first time I had this Jicama Salsa was at La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop in Phoenix Arizona. It is our favorite Mexican restaurant in the valley since they serve authentic food and we’re all for that!

Before eating this salsa at our favorite restaurant, the only way I used to eat Jicama was sprinkled with chili lime seasoning, salt and lots of lime juice! It is the perfect healthy snack in my opinion.

What is Jicama?

Jicama (pronounced HEE-ka-ma) is a root vegetable that is native to Mexico and South America. Also known as a Mexican turnip, jicama has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor with a crunchy texture that’s similar to an apple or water chestnut. It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy snack.

Jicama is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Plus, it’s a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.

**This post was originally published on Sept 2018. It has been updated to be more helpful.

You may think that Jicama does not sound like a salsa ingredient but it does work! It provides the perfect fresh balance for some of the spicy Mexican spices in savory dishes plus its’ crunchiness provides a fun but delicious texture.

Buying tips

Where to buy? Check your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Jicama is becoming increasingly popular, so it’s quite possible that your nearest produce department stocks it. If that fails, check an Asian a Latin market.

• Look for a jicama that feels firm and heavy for its size.
• Next, check out the skin. You want it with smooth, unblemished skin that’s free of cuts, bruises, or soft spots. The skin should also be a nice, even color, without any discoloration or dark patches.
• Gentle squeeze it. It should feel dense and unyielding, without any give or sponginess. Don’t buy it if it feels soft or mushy.

Ingredients

Making jicama salsa is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Jicama: Pick a firm one without any dry spots on the skin. Diced to about .5 inch cubes.
• Jalapeño: For a milder salsa, I recommend using just one pepper, seeded and diced. Or for a spicier salsa, feel free to add two peppers.
• Fresh Cilantro: Finely-chopped
• Fresh Lime: Please avoid the bottled stuff — your salsa will taste so much better with fresh lime juice!
• Kosher salt to taste

Variations

Jicama salsa is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:

• Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and spicy flavor.
• Use different types of peppers, such as serrano or habanero, for more heat or red bell peppers for a mild salsa.
• Mix in some black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Add some chopped red onion.

How To Make Jicama Salsa

The good news is that it’s also ridiculously easy to make. To make this salsa all you have to do is chop the jicama, jalapeño, cilantro, then drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle with some salt, and that’s it!

Can’t get easier than that!

Serving Suggestions

This salsa can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a dip for tortilla chips.
• As a topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.
• As a salad on its own or mixed with other greens.
• As a side dish for grilled fish or chicken.

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Storing & Tips

• Fridge: Place in an airtight container store for up to 3 days.
• It can easily be made ahead of time for gatherings.
• Is this salsa spicy? It can be as spicy or as mild as you like. Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper you use to control the heat.