Spicy Jalapeno Pineapple Salsa (Fresh Side Dish Recipe)

My fresh pineapple salsa recipe is a game-changer. Made with fresh pineapple, jalapenos, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime, and more. A sweet salsa that packs a punch. Dip your favorite tortilla chips in this pineapple jalapeño salsa recipe, or top fish tacos with the salsa. Either way, the flavor punch is phenomenal.

This fruit salsa is a great appetizer, side dish, or topper for chicken, fish, or even paired with some shrimp. Unlike tomato salsa, this is a sweet and spicy salsa that is truly loaded with tons of flavor.

Now, you have to try out my jalapeno peach salsa, and my homemade salsa verde if you enjoy making sauces and salsas. Both are made with fresh ingredients that elevate the flavor compared to a jar of salsa you purchase at a grocery store.

Looking for a savory recipe that still uses pineapple? Check out my slow cooker spicy pineapple pork butt roast for the perfect solution.

Why This Recipe Works

1. This pineapple salsa uses fresh ingredients and is very fresh and vibrant.
2. The colorful look of this fresh salsa is so appealing and great for serving up guests.
3. Kids will even grab a chip and dive in. It is a great way to get more variation into their diet.
4. Use as a topper for a salad, tacos, or pair with chips and dip and eat that way.

What’s in This Jalapeno Pineapple Salsa Recipe?

• Pineapple: The star of the dish, fresh pineapple, brings a juicy, tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the heat of the other ingredients. Its vibrant tropical flavor makes it indispensable in this salsa.
• Jalapeno Peppers: These add a spicy kick to the salsa without overpowering it. Seeding them removes some of the heat, allowing their peppery flavor to shine through.
• Red Pepper: Crunchy and mildly sweet, the red bell pepper adds color and texture to the salsa, complementing both the pineapple’s sweetness and the jalapenos’ heat.
• Tomatoes: Their juicy, slightly acidic taste balances the sweetness of the pineapple and adds a traditional salsa element to the mix.
• Red Onion: adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor and crunch, enhancing the salsa’s overall freshness.
• Cilantro: This herb introduces a burst of citrusy, earthy notes that beautifully tie all the other flavors together.
• Lime: The juice from freshly squeezed limes adds a bright, acidic pop that elevates the salsa, making it irresistibly refreshing.
• Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch of each enhances the salsa’s natural flavors, bringing all the components into perfect harmony.

See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

Substitutions and Variations

• Mango: For a different twist on the tropical theme, mango can be used in place of pineapple. It provides a similar sweetness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Green Bell Pepper: If red bell pepper is unavailable, or you prefer a less sweet option, green bell pepper works just as well to add crunch and color.
• Green Onions: Green onions can be used in place of red onions for a milder yet still flavorful addition.
• Cucumber: Consider adding diced cucumber to your delicious salsa for an extra crunch and a touch of freshness.
• Peaches: Like mango, peaches are another great fruit option that pairs wonderfully with the heat of jalapenos.
• Honey or Agave Syrup: If your pineapple or mango isn’t as sweet as you’d like, a small drizzle of honey or agave syrup can enhance the sweetness.
• Lemon Juice: If limes are not available, lemon juice can substitute well, offering a similar zesty kick.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar can be used instead of lime juice for a slight twist on the acidity.
• Chili Powder or Smoked Paprika: A pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Spicy Pineapple Salsa (Step By Step Directions)

1. Prep all the ingredients before starting.
2. Combine all fruits and veggies in a large bowl. (Photo 1)
3. Drizzle freshly squeezed lime juice over the mixture in the bowl.
4. Season the salsa with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Thoroughly mix all the ingredients to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
6. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill before serving.
7. Serve chilled as a chip dip or a topping for tacos, salads, or grilled meats. (Photos 2 & 3)

Recipe Tips

• Jalapeno – Use green bell pepper if you don’t want the jalapeño pepper in the recipe. It will tame down the spice level of the salsa. Or ramp it up and use a habanero pepper for added heat.
• Spices—To add more flavor, you can mix spices. Cayenne pepper, cumin, or chili powder would all be great additions to the salsa.
• Serving—Serve as an appetizer; mix in black beans and quinoa to make a salad, top tacos, etc.
• Pineapple – You can use canned pineapple if you want. The tidbits would work nicely; just drain off the juice.

Storing Tips 

This pineapple salsa is perishable, so it needs to be refrigerated until you are ready to serve it. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

You can make the salsa a day in advance of when you plan to serve it up. It will help blend the flavors even more if you do this.

Due to the fruit and vegetables, the salsa won’t freeze and thaw very well. The vegetables and fruit will become very soft, watery, and lacking in flavor. I recommend not freezing the jalapeno pineapple salsa.

Serving Suggestions

Use the salsa to top your cilantro lime shrimp tacos, sheet pan fajitas, or even top these rolled tacos. This salsa pairs nicely with fish tacos as well; it is going to bring out tons of flavor to your fish.

Serve up a mango margarita or strawberry margarita on the side of your sweet salsa!

Recipe FAQs

Need More Appetizer Recipes? Try These:

• Mango habanero guacamole
• Chipotle guacamole
• Air Fryer Mashed Potato Bites with Bacon
• Easy Sweet & Spicy Bang Bang Meatballs
• How To Make Salsa Verde
• Fresh Watermelon Bites With Whipped Feta
• Check out all my appetizer recipes to consider more ideas to make.

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