One of the fastest ways to throw money away is to buy pre-made condiments at the grocery store. While an average jar of salsa will cost an average of $3, an exceptional jar of specialty salsa can cost as much as $6 per jar.

Salsa is the easiest condiment to make. If you can dice fruits and vegetables and stir, you can make homemade salsa for a few cents per serving. Plus, you tailor the salsa to your taste. Like it hot? Throw in some habanero chilis. Like it mild? Use a red bell pepper instead.

We’ve created a nutritious mild salsa recipe that is packed with vitamins C and K, and manganese. Although all three nutrients are essential for the human body, vitamin C is especially needed in the diets of folks like you who exercise regularly. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is required for the synthesis of collagen, which makes our blood vessels, skin, and tendons flexible. Vitamin C also synthesizes neurotransmitters in the brain. Because your body takes a beating at the cellular level when you exercise, vitamin C is an important antioxidant to consume each day.

This juicy summer salsa recipe is the perfect low-calorie topping for grilled fish or chicken. It is also a satisfying snack when paired with low-fat black bean dip or flaxseed crackers.

Our twist on traditional mango salsa is a one two punch of sweet and sour notes to add loads of flavor to a variety of summer meals. The tomatillo and lime juice add a sour crunch, while the honey and pineapple give this recipe a sweet finish.

Nutrition:

Serving size: .25 cup
Servings: 13

Calories: 23
Fat: .01g
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 0mg
Potassium: 65mg
Vitamin C: 15%
Manganese: 8%
Calcium: 7%
Vitamin K: 6%

Sources: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminC/index.html