Got leftover salsa and not sure what to do with it? Say goodbye to food waste and hello to tasty meal options with our creative salsa recipes! Instead of tossing out your extra salsa, transform it into zesty, delicious dishes that the whole family will love. From chicken skillet to pasta salad, we’ve got you covered with easy and quick recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Continue reading to discover what to make with leftover salsa and bring new life to your pantry staple.
Salsa-Inspired Chicken Skillet Recipe
Don’t know what to make with leftover salsa? Why not try this delicious chicken skillet recipe that is inspired by the flavors of Mexico? This easy-to-follow recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with the tangy heat of salsa, resulting in a dish that is packed with flavor and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup leftover salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sauté for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Add the onion and garlic to the same skillet and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the leftover salsa, salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
- Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully coated.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving, if desired.
This salsa-inspired chicken skillet is a perfect dish for any occasion. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or your favorite veggies for a complete and satisfying meal. And the best part? You can use up your leftover salsa and create a delicious meal at the same time!
Quick and Easy Salsa Quesadillas
Looking for a delicious and easy way to use up extra salsa? Try making these zesty salsa quesadillas! This simple recipe combines the gooey goodness of melted cheese with the tangy heat of salsa, resulting in a crowd-pleasing snack or meal that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 4 large tortillas
- 1 cup of leftover salsa
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (or cooking spray)
Instructions:
- Preheat a pan or griddle over medium heat.
- Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Add a spoonful of salsa on top of the cheese.
- Top with another tortilla and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy and golden brown.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and ingredients.
- Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa, if desired.
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute snack. Get creative by using different types of cheese or adding in extra ingredients like cooked chicken or veggies. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn your leftover salsa into a delicious and satisfying meal.
Grilled Shrimp with Salsa Marinade
Elevate your grilled shrimp with a tangy and spicy salsa marinade. This recipe is the perfect fusion of seafood and Mexican-inspired flavor.
To make the salsa marinade, mix together your favorite salsa with lime juice, honey, and a splash of tequila. Coat your shrimp in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavor.
Once your shrimp is marinated, grill it until it turns pink and is cooked through. Then, serve it with a side of rice and black beans for a complete meal. This easy salsa recipe is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or summer gathering.
Enchiladas Smothered in Salsa
If you’re looking for a way to use up leftover salsa, try smothering your enchiladas in a delicious salsa sauce. This quick and easy recipe will elevate your typical enchiladas and provide a burst of flavor in every bite. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray. Next, warm up your leftover salsa in a small saucepan over low heat. Then, take tortillas and fill them with a mixture of cooked chicken, black beans, cheese, and any additional desired toppings. Roll them up, and place them in the prepared baking dish. Pour the warmed-up salsa over the enchiladas and sprinkle with additional cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors.
Baked Potatoes with Salsa Topping
Who doesn’t love a good baked potato? Take yours up a notch by adding a dollop of leftover salsa to the top. It’s a quick and easy way to liven up a classic side dish and put your leftover salsa to good use. Simply bake your potatoes as you normally would, cut them open, and spoon your leftover salsa on top. It’s a creamy and tangy addition that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
If you want to get even more creative, try adding some other toppings to your baked potato, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or green onions. You can also swap out the traditional russet potato for a sweet potato or yam to add some extra flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting in the kitchen!
Guacamole with a Salsa Twist
Looking for a way to spice up your guacamole? Look no further than your leftover salsa. By incorporating salsa into the recipe, you can take your classic dip to the next level with an extra layer of flavor and spice. This fun and easy twist is perfect for adding some kick to your next gathering or for enjoying as a snack.
To make this salsa-inspired guacamole, simply mash together ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Then, stir in a dollop of leftover salsa for a burst of tangy flavor. Serve with tortilla chips or veggies for a tasty and healthy snack.
This recipe is also a great way to use up any extra salsa you may have on hand. Don’t let that extra salsa go to waste – incorporate it into your guacamole for a delicious and creative twist!
Zesty Salsa-Lime Rice Bowl
Looking for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this zesty salsa-lime rice bowl, perfect for lunch or dinner. By mixing leftover salsa with freshly squeezed lime juice, you’ll create a vibrant and satisfying dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
To create this delicious rice bowl, start by cooking your rice according to package directions. While the rice is cooking, mix together some leftover salsa with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add in any other seasonings or spices that you enjoy.
Once your rice is cooked, spoon it into a bowl and top it with your salsa mixture. Finish off your dish with some sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. You can also add in some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
This salsa-lime rice bowl is versatile and customizable, making it a great option for meal prep or dinner on busy weeknights. Give it a try and see just how delicious salsa-inspired dishes can be!
Flavorful Salsa Meatballs
Meatballs are a classic dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Adding leftover salsa to the mix will give your meatballs an extra burst of flavor. Here’s how to make it:
- Mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced onion, minced garlic, an egg, and leftover salsa in a bowl. Use your hands to ensure everything is combined well.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Heat up a pan with a bit of oil and fry the meatballs until cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs with additional salsa on top.
These salsa meatballs are tender and packed with flavor, making them a great addition to pasta or rice dishes. Leftover salsa recipes don’t have to be boring- let them inspire you to create unique and delicious meals!
Salsa-Dressed Tacos for Taco Night
Are you tired of the same old taco toppings? Try dressing up your tacos with leftover salsa! The tangy and spicy flavors of salsa add a burst of taste to the tacos, making them delicious and colorful. Here’s an easy recipe to spice up your taco night:
Ingredients
- 8 taco shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup salsa
- shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped tomatoes, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add the ground beef, chili powder, and cumin, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the salsa and cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Place the taco shells in a baking dish and fill them with the beef mixture. Bake for 10 minutes or until the shells are crispy.
- Garnish with lettuce, cheese, sour cream, chopped tomatoes, and a dollop of leftover salsa.
And voila – in just a few minutes, you have a quick and easy salsa-dressed taco dish that’s perfect for your next taco night!
Refreshing Salsa Pasta Salad
Are you wondering what to make with leftover salsa? Look no further than this delicious and easy salsa pasta salad recipe! This dish is a perfect way to use up extra salsa and create a bright and flavorful side dish or meal.
To start, cook your favorite pasta according to the instructions on the package. While the pasta is cooking, chop up some veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions to add to your salad. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
Next, mix together some olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and a tablespoon or two of your leftover salsa to create a zesty dressing. Toss the pasta, veggies, and dressing together in a big bowl until everything is combined and coated in the dressing.
Add some salt and pepper to taste, and you’re done! This salsa pasta salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or proteins. Try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
With this recipe, you’ll never have to wonder what to do with leftover salsa again. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a fresh and delicious meal that is both easy to make and full of flavor. Happy cooking!
FAQ
What can I make with leftover salsa?
There are many creative uses for leftover salsa! You can use it to make salsa-inspired chicken skillet, quick and easy salsa quesadillas, grilled shrimp with salsa marinade, enchiladas smothered in salsa, baked potatoes with salsa topping, guacamole with a salsa twist, zesty salsa-lime rice bowl, flavorful salsa meatballs, salsa-dressed tacos for taco night, and refreshing salsa pasta salad. These recipes will help you transform your extra salsa into delicious meals.
Are there any quick and easy salsa recipes?
Yes! Some quick and easy salsa recipes include salsa-inspired chicken skillet, quick and easy salsa quesadillas, grilled shrimp with salsa marinade, enchiladas smothered in salsa, baked potatoes with salsa topping, guacamole with a salsa twist, zesty salsa-lime rice bowl, flavorful salsa meatballs, salsa-dressed tacos for taco night, and refreshing salsa pasta salad. These recipes are perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a flavorful meal.
How can I use up extra salsa?
There are various ways to use up extra salsa. You can use it as a topping for baked potatoes, incorporate it into guacamole for a twist, mix it with lime juice for a zesty rice bowl, incorporate it into meatball mixture for added flavor, dress your tacos with salsa, or use it to make a refreshing pasta salad. These ideas will help you make the most out of your leftover salsa.
Can I incorporate salsa into other dishes?
Absolutely! Salsa can be a versatile ingredient that adds a burst of flavor to many dishes. You can incorporate salsa into chicken skillets, quesadillas, marinades for grilled shrimp, enchilada sauces, meatballs, and even pasta salads. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to discover new and delicious ways to incorporate salsa into your cooking.
Do you have any salsa recipe inspiration?
Yes! We have a variety of salsa recipe inspirations for you. You can try salsa-inspired chicken skillet, quick and easy salsa quesadillas, grilled shrimp with salsa marinade, enchiladas smothered in salsa, baked potatoes with salsa topping, guacamole with a salsa twist, zesty salsa-lime rice bowl, flavorful salsa meatballs, salsa-dressed tacos for taco night, and refreshing salsa pasta salad. These recipes will inspire you to get creative with salsa in your cooking.