by John Weisenberger

Created on: May 20, 2009   Last Updated: May 21, 2009

Salsa and chips have been a constant fixture in every party we host; birthday parties, wedding anniversary gatherings and even casual get-togethers. Different types of chips can be dipped into salsa but the usual types that are dipped into salsa are tortilla chips commonly known as nachos. People like them so much that salsa has become a party staple that people can't get enough of. Some even believe that if you don't serve salsa at your party, then, it's not a party at all.

Homemade salsa is very easy to prepare as you just have to use common fresh ingredients that are widely available during the summer months, such as tomatoes, pineapple and corn. Therefore, you don't need to look for any ingredients at specialty stores as they are readily available in supermarkets and grocery stores. At the same time, if you make your own homemade salsa, you can adjust the spiciness of it from mild to extra hot depending on the taste or the preference of your guests as well as the weather so, that your various guests get to enjoy the chips along with the dip.

As for health benefits, salsa has vegetables that are easy to digest, are full of vitamins and minerals that are important to your body. Salsa can lower blood pressure and clear up your sinuses too. Salsa can also help lessen the pain caused by arthritis, headaches and migraines and flu, which are common during the summer, since it makes use of peppers. At the same time, if you use fresh ingredients on your salsa, they can help you feel refreshed during the hot days of summer. Aside from vegetables, you can opt to use fresh fruits such as pineapple and apricot to further help you cool down.

Here are a couple of recipes for a perfect homemade salsa dish that you can serve and enjoy during your summer parties.

Pineapple-Apricot Salsa

1 cup finely chopped peeled cored fresh pineapple
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup apricot-pineapple preserves
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1-1/2 tablespoons minced seeded jalapeo chili

Toss all ingredients in small bowl to blend. Season with salt and pepper. Can be made one day ahead.

Cover and chill.

Raspberry Salsa

2 cups fresh raspberries
1/4 cup chopped sweet onion
3 teaspoons finely chopped jalapeno chile peppers
1 clove minced garlic
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon white sugar
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

In a medium bowl, mix together raspberries, sweet onion, jalapeno chile peppers, garlic, cilantro, white sugar and lime juice.

Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 1 hour before serving.

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