At its core, the construction of salsa isn’t too complicated. A simple mixture comprised of tomatoes, salt, onions, and peppers yields a delicious dip or topping that has become a timeless addition to any snack spread. Yet as you enter a grocery store or even shop online, all the various brands on display can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to narrow those options down to only the best salsa. For yourself or a Super Bowl party, the best salsa makes you want to tear through an entire bag of tortilla chips.
With that in mind, we here at SPY have decided to cut through the chunky tomato goodness to bring you eight of our favorite salsas. And, as we’re still a little ahead of the Super Bowl, there’s plenty of time for you to taste test them all to determine which ones will make it to the big game.
1. Green Mountain Gringo Medium Salsa
BEST OVERALL
One of the things you have to keep in mind with a jar of salsa is that it’ll never taste 100% as fresh or as good as salsa that’s made from scratch. However, Green Mountain Gringo’s medium salsa gets as close as you can get to replicating that superior restaurant experience at home. Green Mountian Gringo’s medium salsa is chunky, full of great flavor, and spicy without ever being too overwhelming. It’ll quickly become your new favorite dip.
2. Desert Pepper Trading Company Roasted Tomato Chipotle Salsa
BEST FOR SPICE LOVERS
With its combination of slow-fire-roasted tomatoes and Mexican chipotle chiles, this jar of salsa from Desert Pepper Trading Company is an excellent selection for those who like a little heat in their salsa. While it’s definitely got some kick, the mixture also has some sweet yellow corn to help balance the heat. A good mixture of smoky and spicy, it’s a full flavor that will keep you dipping over and over again — even if your mouth is on fire.
Related Stories
3. Tostitos Medium Salsa
BEST ALL-PURPOSE
Sometimes it’s best not to mess around with a good thing. It’s more than likely you know what you’re getting with Tostitos, as they’ve been the go-to option for many shoppers. It’s fitting though, as the salsa is widely available, never super expensive, and just tastes good. Nice and chunky with a rich flavor, any list of salsas worth their weight in gold wouldn’t be complete without its inclusion. For a spicier dip, go with the medium salsa over the mild. And if you need to stock up on the best salsa for your next game-day party, order the 4-pack to ensure there’s always enough dip to go around.
4. Goya Tangy Salsa Verde
BEST SALSA VERDE
Salsa has become a staple of Tex-Mex food, but this salsa verde from Spanish food company Goya is less Americanized than some salsas on the market. For those unaware, salsa verde gets its name and color from the inclusion of tomatillos as the base of the sauce instead of a red tomato base. Prized for their tart flavor, they often pair well alongside hotter flavors. This option from Goya will undoubtedly elevate the heat on any dish you include it on while offering a bit of tangy flavor too.
5. Pace Chunky Salsa
BEST CHUNKY SALSA
Thicker salsas are really perfect for those dip-obsessed snackers. With a plentiful concentration, this chunky salsa from Pace makes for a great companion to use when you really want to slather your chips in sauce. With a slight kick, it’ll be a hit no matter the occasion. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy without concern. For a no-frills salsa, this is a great go-to dip.
6. Archer Farms Mango Peach Salsa
BEST PEACH SALSA
Looking to change up the typical salsa routine and opt for something totally different? Reach for a peach salsa option like this one from Archer Farms. A blend of mango and peach, it has a decidedly tropical taste to it that will pair well with saltier chips. The light citrus elements of the mixture bring a sweet taste, making it a great salsa to use for families that don’t want something too hot or spicy.
7. La Fundidora Salsa Fresca
BEST SPLURGE
It seems weird to identify a specific brand as a “splurge” when it comes to a food item like a can of salsa, but we promise that once you taste this salsa fresca from La Fundidora, you’ll understand. Thanks to its blend of tomatillo, white onion, cilantro, serrano chile, salt, and other spices, this is the closest thing you can get to having restaurant-quality salsa from a can. The vibrant taste pairs quite well alongside fish and grilled veggies. Of course, you can’t go wrong with tortilla chips.
8. Frontera Double Roasted Tomato Salsa
RICHEST FLAVOR
All of Frontera’s salsas feel dangerously close to being restaurant-quality in taste and texture, so right out of the jar you’ve got a quality-tasting product. This particular blend is made from a double roasted tomato that adds a bold, rich flavor that’s actually inspired by street vendors in Mexico. With its rich and layered taste, it’s great a marinade for chicken or as a topping to brighten up some eggs in the morning.
Forget the Recipes, and Grab These Store Bought Super Bowl Snacks Instead