If you’re all about quick and flavorful, pineapple salsa is your new go-to.
Sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy, it comes together in only 10 minutes.
Use it to top tacos, grilled meats, or seafood, or just grab some chips and enjoy. It’s refreshing, versatile, and the kind of simple recipe that’ll keep everyone coming back for more 🙂
Table of Contents
Recipe Video
Why This Recipe Works
This sweet and spicy pineapple salsa recipe works because it is quick and easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and highly versatile.
With just a few fresh ingredients, such as pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice, you can prepare a vibrant and flavorful salsa in under 15 minutes. This recipe requires no more technical know-how than chopping up some ingredients and tossing them into a bowl.
Furthermore, this salsa is full of bold and refreshing flavors, making it a delicious addition to your meal. The combination of sweet pineapple, spicy jalapeño, and tangy lime creates a perfect balance of flavors that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Additionally, this fresh pineapple salsa pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken and fish to tacos and nachos. This versatility makes it an excellent appetizer, party snack, or flavorful addition to a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Pineapple:
When making Pineapple Salsa, selecting the right pineapple is crucial. Choose a fresh pineapple that is firm but slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet aroma at the base. The skin should be golden-yellow with minimal green spots. Fresh pineapple is recommended for this tropical pineapple salsa recipe. Not only does it give you a bolder, fresher flavor, but it will also have a much juicier texture. However, if fresh is unavailable, frozen is the next preferable option; simply ensure you thaw and drain it before use. Canned pineapple can be used in a pinch, however it will result in a sweeter salsa with a mushier texture.
Maybe you'd like to make your tropical salsa with a different fruit? Mango is a popular option, offering a similar sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color. Papaya and peaches are also excellent alternatives, providing a juicy texture and tropical taste. For a different twist, consider using kiwi or strawberries.
Red Bell Pepper:
Red bell peppers are used for their sweet flavor, crisp texture, and bold color. However, you can use any brightly colored bell pepper, like yellow or orange. You can also use mini peppers or even tomatoes to add the same freshness and pop of color.
Red Onion:
Red onions are the best choice for this pineapple salsa recipe, contributing to its overall sweetness and crisp texture. If you don't have any red onions on hand, yellow or green onions are excellent choices both adding a mild flavor. For a different flavor, consider using finely diced chives or leeks. Both will add a mild, onion-like taste without overpowering the salsa.
Jalapeno:
Jalapeños are a key ingredient for adding heat to your Pineapple Salsa. To make the salsa spicier, include the seeds and membranes of the jalapeños. If you want even more spice, you can add additional jalapeños or opt for hotter peppers, such as serrano, habanero, Thai chili, or cayenne peppers. You can even add red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to give your spicy pineapple salsa more kick.
Cilantro:
Cilantro adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to your homemade Pineapple Salsa. However, if you don't like cilantro or are allergic to it, you can substitute fresh parsley, basil, or mint.
Lime Juice:
Lime juice serves several purposes in this pineapple salsa recipe. Not only does the acidity balance out the sweetness, but it also acts as a preservative keeping the ingredients looking colorful and fresh. You can also use lemon juice or grapefruit juice to achieve the same effects.
How to Make Pineapple Salsa
Step One:
Start by placing the pineapple on its side on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut off the crown and the bottom of the pineapple.
Step Two:
Stand the pineapple upright on the cutting board. Starting from the top, carefully slice down the sides of the pineapple to remove the skin. Follow the fruit's natural curve and try to remove as many eyes as possible.
Step Three:
Lay the pineapple back on its side and slice it into ½" thick pieces. Then, dice each slice into smaller, bite-sized pieces of uniform size. Add the diced pineapple to a bowl and set aside.
Step Four:
Slice the top off of the red bell pepper and remove the core and seeds. Dice the pepper and add it to the bowl.
Step Five:
Next, dice the onion and add it to the bowl as well.
Step Six:
Add the diced jalapeno, cilantro, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lime juice. Stir to incorporate.
Step Seven:
Serve your fresh pineapple salsa with tortilla chips, and enjoy!
Tips
- Remove the tough, fibrous core from the pineapple before dicing it to give your salsa a better texture.
- If you have the time, let the salsa chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together, making for a more delicious salsa.
What to Serve With Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple Salsa is a versatile topping that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it with grilled chicken or fish for a tropical twist, or use it as a vibrant topping for tacos and nachos. It's also excellent as a dip with tortilla chips or as a refreshing side for barbecue pork or beef dishes.
FAQs
Is this vegan pineapple salsa?
This homemade pineapple salsa is indeed a vegan-friendly recipe.
Can I make a gluten-free pineapple salsa?
This is already a gluten-free recipe. Serve alongside gluten-free corn tortillas for a fast and flavorful snack that won't irritate your gluten intolerance.
What's the best way to store leftover pineapple salsa?
Leftover pineapple salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
More Pineapple Recipes
Pineapple is an incredibly versatile fruit that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It's also incredibly good for you, boasting loads of vitamins A and C, being rich in antioxidants, having anti-inflammatory properties, and aiding in digestion. For more ways to use this flavorful little powerhouse in your cooking, check out this collection of some of our favorite pineapple recipes.

Pineapple Salsa
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple
- 1 red bell pepper
- ½ red onion
- 1 jalapeno diced
- ⅓ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
- Start by placing the pineapple on its side on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut off the crown and the bottom of the pineapple.
- Stand the pineapple upright on the cutting board. Starting from the top, carefully slice down the sides of the pineapple to remove the skin. Follow the fruit's natural curve and try to remove as many eyes as possible.
- Lay the pineapple back on its side and slice it into ½" thick pieces. Then, dice each slice into smaller, bite-sized pieces of uniform size. Add the diced pineapple to a bowl and set aside.
- Slice the top off of the red bell pepper and remove the core and seeds. Dice the pepper and add it to the bowl.
- Next, dice the onion and add it to the bowl as well.
- Add the diced jalapeno, cilantro, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lime juice. Stir to incorporate.
- Serve your fresh pineapple salsa with tortilla chips, and enjoy 🙂
Video
Nutrition
Notes
- Remove the tough, fibrous core from the pineapple before dicing it to give your salsa a better texture.
- If you have the time, let the salsa chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together, making for a more delicious salsa.
Great with grilled fish or pork.
I don't care much for salsa this is very tasty!