The Best Homemade Serrano Salsa Verde │ Spicy Taqueria-style
There’s something magical about Mexican food that brings people together, and fresh salsa is always at the heart of it. Growing up in Chihuahua, Mexico, my family gatherings always featured fresh, homemade salsa, especially my abuelita’s serrano salsa verde.

She’d make it for tacos de barbacoa, quesadillas, or simply for dipping tortilla chips, and let me tell you—it was the star of the table every single time. Now, I’m passing on this beloved spicy salsa verde to you, so you can recreate the authentic, spicy flavors of Mexico in your own kitchen!

Fresh Serrano Peppers are for the brave
The spiciness of serrano pepper is larger than the one found in jalapeno, the flavor is also different so I might say that if you are more into the mild sauce you will need a few of my secrets!

Spicy or not spicy?
If you love the flavor but not the spiciness hot, aka picoso in Spanish, flavor! here is the trick. Cut the branch of the serrano peppers, now cut the pepper in half by the length, and take off the seeds and veins of the chile. Seeds and veins really increment the spiciness. Another way to know if your pepper is way too spicy before cooking it is to smell it.

Another trick is to switch the serrano peppers in this recipe for jalapeño peppers, the flavors will be less spicy. Just remember to take off the seeds as well.
Another option for mild serrano green sauce is to use only 1/4 piece of one serrano.
You love spicy! then, here you go! leave seeds and veins in those serranos. Want spicier? add another serrano!

Ingredients
- 1 serrano pepper makes the perfect taste. If you really enjoy fiery salsa Mexican salsa add another 2 serranos.
- 7 tomatillos
- 1/4 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 12 cilantro stems with leaves
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion
- 1/2 chopped avocado
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt

How to make Serrano Salsa Verde
In a pot place 5 cups of water and set to boil. Add 1/4 onion, 2 fresh garlic cloves, 7 tomatillos, and serrano.

Cook the vegetables for around 7 to 10 minutes or until cooked.

Place the vegetables in the blender along with the 12 branches of fresh cilantro and 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 cup of the water where the vegetables are cooked.

Check if you would like more salt in this cooked salsa and add salt to taste.
Let the salsa cold down.

Now add the fresh ingredients, 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons of chopped onion, and diced avocado. The salsa mustn’t be hot when you add fresh vegetables, or they are going to cook in the salsa. These vegetables go fresh and add tons of flavor and texture to the serrano pepper salsa.

This Authentic Serrano salsa is great for carne picada tacos, quesadillas, arrachera and is perfect for tortilla chips! If you are looking for recipes for 5 de Mayo or need an amazing Mexican appetizer for the Superbowl, this salsa verde is the way to go for those tortilla chips!

Are you looking for the BEST SPICY SALSA RECIPES?
- Authentic Molcajete Salsa (my favorite salsa)
- Salsa Taquera Recipe
- How to Make Doña María Mole Sauce for Chicken or Enchilada
How to Make Salsa with Serrano Peppers
Equipment
- 1 Blender
- 1 Pot
Ingredients
- 2 piece serrano pepper (or more if you love it spicy!)
- 7 pieces tomatillos husked and washed
- 1/4 piece white onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 12 stems cilantro with leaves
- 1 tbsp cilantro chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped onion
- 1/2 piece avocado diced
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Start by boiling 5 cups of water in a pot. Add the tomatillos, serrano pepper, onion, and garlic. Let them cook for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft.
- Transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender along with the cilantro stems, salt, and a bit of the cooking water (about 1/4 cup). Blend until smooth.
- Let the blended salsa cool down before mixing in the fresh cilantro, chopped onion, and diced avocado. This step adds a burst of fresh flavor and a creamy texture.
- Taste your salsa and adjust the salt or spice level. If you love a spicier salsa, blend in another serrano pepper or leave the seeds intact during preparation.
Video
Nutrition

FAQs About Serrano Salsa
1. What can I use as a substitute for serrano peppers?
If you don’t have serrano peppers on hand or prefer a milder salsa, jalapeño peppers are a great substitute.
2. Is serrano salsa very spicy?
It depends! Serrano peppers are spicier than jalapeños, but you can control the heat by removing the seeds and veins or using fewer peppers.
3. Can I make this salsa with red serranos?
Absolutely! Red serranos add a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor to the salsa. Keep in mind they may be spicier, so start with one and adjust to your preference.
4. How long does spicy serrano peppers salsa last?
Serrano salsa lasts up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an air-tight container. If you add fresh avocado, try to consume it within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture.
5. Is this salsa healthy?
Yes! Serrano peppers are rich in vitamins, especially Vitamin C. Pairing this salsa with fresh veggies or lean proteins makes for a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.
This salsa is the perfect companion for tacos and burritos!
Perfect for adding a kick to any dish. Can’t get enough of it! 😍
Perfect for adding a kick to any dish. Can’t get enough of it!