Tomatillo and Banana Salsa

I recently got a new job (yay!) that requires me to work Saturday mornings (boo!). I wouldn't mind working Saturdays too much, BUT both my favorite farmer's markets are also on Saturday mornings! 

So last week, as a final hurrah, I visited my favorite market to stock up on fruits and veggies. One of my last fling purchases was a pint of gorgeous purple tomatillos. If you're not familiar, purple tomatillos are sweeter and less tart than green tomatillos. 

Trying to make use of these beauties, I remembered the Tropical Tomatillo Banana Salsa recipe from one of my favorite cookbooks, From Asparagus to Zucchini. I was a little hesitant about this recipe at first (bananas and tomatillos??), but let me tell you — it is PERFECT! The tomatillos, onion and jalapeño keep things tart and spicy, while the banana adds just enough sweetness. Pair with chips for the perfect afternoon snack or appetizer! 

Let me know what you think of the recipe and don’t forget to follow the sustainability tips below!

Time: 5 minutes

Makes: about 2 cups of salsa

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound purple tomatillos (about 8 medium)

  • You can substitute green tomatillos for a more tart flavor

• 1 medium banana

  • For best results, use a slightly underripe banana

• 1 jalapeño, seeds removed to taste

• 3 tablespoons minced green onion

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• Salt to taste

Methods

Dice the tomatillos, banana and jalapeño. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Refrigerate overnight to make the flavors stronger and even more delicious. Dig in! 

Sustainability Tips

• Fruits and veggies: Your best option here is to grow the fruits and veggies yourself, but local or organic produce is another great option. Be sure to make this recipe during the summer, when tomatillos are in season. This way, your tomatillos won't have to travel as far to get to you.

• Bananas: If you live in an area where bananas do not grow, look for organic, fair-trade bananas. Organic means that no synthetic pesticides were used to grow your bananas and that fair trade logo means that the banana plantation workers are getting a fair price for their crops and labor. Read all about it in my bananas sustainability profile!