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FREEZE IT
Zesty Salsa Verde

Last year was the first time I had ever grown tomatillos. They were so abundant that I had enough to eat, give away and freeze for future gatherings. What I didn’t expect was how well the salsa would freeze.

—KIM BANICK SALEM, OR



PREP: 15 MIN. • BAKE: 35 MIN. • MAKES: 2 CUPS


2 pounds medium tomatillos (about 16), husks removed and halved

2 large sweet onions, coarsely chopped (about 4 cups)

2 serrano peppers, seeded and chopped

6 garlic cloves, peeled and halved

1/4 cup olive oil

1/3 to 1/2 cup water

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 teaspoon salt

1. Preheat oven to 425°. In a large bowl, toss tomatillos, onions, peppers and garlic with oil. Divide mixture between two 15x10x1-in. baking pans. Roast 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Cool slightly.

2. Process mixture in a food processor until smooth, adding water to reach desired consistency. Add remaining ingredients; pulse just until combined.

NOTE Wear disposable gloves when cutting hot peppers; the oils can burn skin. Avoid touching your face.

FREEZE OPTION Freeze cooled salsa in freezer containers. To use, thaw completely in refrigerator.