My grandma’s famous fruit salsa was the star of every family gathering growing up. There was just something magical about the sweet, tangy, and cinnamony flavors that had us all fighting for the last bite. The juicy fresh fruit perfectly complemented the crispy, crunchy tortilla chips, creating a flavor explosion in every single mouthful.
As I got older and started hosting my own parties, I knew I had to recreate that nostalgic flavor. After countless trials and experiments, I finally nailed down the perfect Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe. It’s become such a hit with my friends and family that it’s now the first thing I’m asked to bring to any summertime get-together.
Table of Contents
Why This Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
The secret to this Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe is all in the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the fresh fruit is perfectly complemented by the tangy lime juice, warm cinnamon, and just a touch of honey. Plus, the crispy, crunchy texture of the homemade tortilla chips provides the ultimate contrast to the juicy salsa.
I’ve experimented with all kinds of fruit combinations, and I’ve found that a mix of pineapple, mango, strawberries, and kiwi works best. The pineapple and mango provide a tropical sweetness, the strawberries add a lovely tartness, and the kiwi lends a refreshing, almost sorbet-like quality to the salsa.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 2 cups diced fresh fruit (such as pineapple, mango, strawberries, and kiwi): This combination of juicy, flavorful fruits is the heart of the salsa.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: The bright, tangy lime juice helps balance out the sweetness of the fruit.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of honey enhances the natural sweetness and provides a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm, fragrant cinnamon is the secret ingredient that takes this salsa to the next level.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A small amount of salt helps to enhance all the flavors.
- 12 corn tortillas, cut into triangles: The crispy, homemade tortilla chips are the perfect vessel for scooping up the delicious salsa.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds the perfect finishing touch to the tortilla chips.
Step-by-Step Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips Instructions
Preparing Your Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
With a total preparation and cooking time of just 25 minutes, this Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe comes together in a flash. All you’ll need are a sharp knife, a cutting board, a baking sheet, and a mixing bowl.
1- Start by dicing the fresh fruit into small, bite-sized pieces, being careful to remove any seeds or tough cores. The key is to cut the fruit into uniform pieces so they’ll all cook evenly.
2- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced fruit, lime juice, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Gently toss everything together until the flavors are well-incorporated.
3- While the salsa is resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the corn tortillas into triangular wedges and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4- Bake the tortilla chips for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
5- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and any remaining cinnamon.
6- Immediately after removing the tortilla chips from the oven, sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve the Fruit Salsa alongside the warm, crispy tortilla chips, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a variety of fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overripe or underripe fruits, as they won’t hold their shape as well.
- Be sure to dice the fruit into small, uniform pieces for the perfect bite-sized salsa.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar to your personal taste preferences. Some people prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, while others prefer a sweeter finish.
- For an extra refreshing twist, try adding a tablespoon or two of finely chopped mint or cilantro to the salsa.
Serving and Storing Your Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
Perfect Pairings for Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
This Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe serves 6 people, making it the perfect shareable snack or appetizer for your next backyard BBQ, pool party, or game day gathering. It’s delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or pork. For a refreshing drink pairing, try serving it with a crisp white wine, a light and fruity sangria, or a sparkling lemonade.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe is that it can be made in advance. The salsa will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can prepare it ahead of time and simply assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve.
The tortilla chips, on the other hand, are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven. To make them ahead of time, you can cut the tortillas into triangles and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss them in the oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up again before coating them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
If you have any leftover salsa, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
Creative Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips Variations
While the classic combination of pineapple, mango, strawberries, and kiwi is hard to beat, you can easily switch up the fruit in this Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe to suit your taste preferences or the season. Try swapping in diced peaches, nectarines, or berries during the summer, or use apples, pears, and cranberries for a more autumnal twist.
You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings. A pinch of ginger or a splash of vanilla extract can add an extra layer of warmth, while a dash of chili powder or cayenne can give the salsa a delightful kick of heat.
Making Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips Diet-Friendly
To make this Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free corn tortillas or bake your own homemade tortilla chips from scratch.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, skip the tortilla chips and serve the salsa with sliced cucumber or jicama instead. You can also use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of the granulated sugar for the cinnamon-sugar coating.
If you’re looking for a vegan or dairy-free version, simply omit the honey and use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
A: While fresh fruit is ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can certainly use frozen fruit in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
Q: How can I adjust the recipe if I need to make more or less?
A: This Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe serves 6 people. To scale it up or down, simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. For example, if you need to serve 12 people, double all the ingredients.
Q: Can I make the salsa in advance?
A: Yes, the salsa can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The tortilla chips are best made just before serving, but you can cut the tortillas into triangles up to 2 days ahead and store them at room temperature.
Q: How do I know when the tortilla chips are done?
A: Keep a close eye on the tortilla chips in the oven, flipping them halfway through. They’re done when they’re crispy and golden brown, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Q: What if my salsa is too tart or too sweet?
A: Adjust the amount of lime juice or honey to your personal taste preferences. Start with the amounts listed in the recipe and add more or less to balance the flavors.
Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing fruit salsa paired with crispy cinnamon sugar tortilla chips is a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. The sweet and tangy flavors of the fruit salsa perfectly complement the crunchy, cinnamon-coated tortilla chips for a winning combination.
Ingredients
– 2 cups diced fresh fruit (such as pineapple, mango, strawberries, and kiwi)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 corn tortillas, cut into triangles
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced fruit, lime juice, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Gently toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Spread the tortilla triangles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortilla chips are crispy and the sugar has caramelized.
5. Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
6. Serve the fruit salsa with the cinnamon sugar tortilla chips, and enjoy!
Notes
– For a sweeter salsa, add an extra teaspoon of honey.
– Try using a variety of fruits, such as apples, berries, and citrus, for a more complex flavor profile.
– Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dips, Boards & Drinks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips recipe is the ultimate summertime treat. The vibrant, juicy salsa and the crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated tortilla chips come together to create a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a fun and easy snack, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So grab some fresh fruit, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
