Best peppers for homemade salsa from mild to HOT

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Whether you’re a gardener preparing for the next planting season or a salsa enthusiast exploring the grocery store, we’ll walk you through a variety of pepper options, each offering its unique blend of flavor and heat.

Cream Section Separator Best peppers for salsa See all peppers

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If you prefer a milder taste without sacrificing the classic flavors, there are several mild pepper options to explore. These peppers provide the perfect balance of taste without overwhelming heat.

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Green bell peppers

Cream Section Separator A notable advantage of green bell peppers is their striking similarity in flavor to jalapeños sans the heat. This makes them an excellent substitute for those who desire the classic taste of salsa without any fiery sensations. See all alternatives

For those who appreciate the fruity and citrusy notes found in habanero peppers but wish to avoid the intense heat, mad hatter peppers present an enticing alternative.

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Medium peppers perfect for salsa

Cream Section Separator For those who want a little bit of a kick without melting their face off, these peppers offer a perfect balance of flavor and spice for salsas and pico de gallos. See all peppers

Jalapeños are the quintessential option for both salsas and pico de gallos. Ranging from 2,500 to 10,000 SHU on the scoville scale, these peppers strike the perfect balance, making their presence known without overwhelming your taste buds.

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Serranos: stepping up the spice

Cream Section Separator For those craving a bit more heat, serrano peppers step onto the stage with a similar flavor to jalapeños but noticeably spicier. See all peppers

Chipotle peppers, which are dried jalapeños, infuse a rich smokiness that takes the cooked salsa to new depths of flavor.

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Best hot peppers for salsa

Cream Section Separator When venturing into the realm of hot salsa, it’s essential to handle these peppers with caution, considering their fiery nature. Wearing gloves and avoiding touching your face or eyes after handling them is a must. See all peppers

Habaneros take the spotlight among the classic hot salsa contenders with their impressive heat and delicate fruitiness. Ranging from 100,000 to 350,000 SHU on the Scoville scale, these peppers bring the perfect spiciness that pairs harmoniously with tomatoes and citrus.

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Scotch bonnets: fruity sweetness with a punch

Cream Section Separator Scotch bonnets are an excellent option for those seeking a hot salsa pepper with a Caribbean flair. Ranging from 100,000 - 350,000 SHU, these peppers offer a fruity, sweet taste that complements the fiery kick. See all peppers

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Get the free sriracha alternative guide

Disappointed by the Sriracha alternative you've tried? I've put together a visual ranking guide for you to download or print out so you know exactly what to grab. Cream Section Separator Get the free guide