Last Updated on August 25, 2025 by Casia Valdés
Strawberry Pineapple Salsa is one of those magical recipes that instantly reminds me of warm summer afternoons—picnics, backyard BBQs, and sipping something cool while the grill is sizzling. While I grew up on rich sauces and hearty meals, the first time I had a fruit salsa was a total game-changer. It was light, vibrant, and bursting with natural sweetness—balanced by the right touch of spice and acidity.
This Refreshing Strawberry Pineapple Salsa is exactly that: a colorful, juicy salsa that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even just a bowl of salty tortilla chips. It’s quick to make, relies entirely on fresh ingredients, and delivers big flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just want something healthy and delicious, this salsa delivers sunshine in a bowl.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fresh and fruity – Sweet strawberries and juicy pineapple make the perfect base.
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No cooking required – Just chop, mix, and chill.
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Zesty and vibrant – The lime and jalapeño balance out the sweetness beautifully.
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Versatile – Use it as a dip, topping, or side.
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Perfect for summer – Cool, refreshing, and naturally hydrating.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
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1 cup diced strawberries (ripe and firm)
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1 cup diced pineapple (fresh preferred, canned if drained well)
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¼ cup finely chopped red onion
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
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Juice of 1 lime (or more to taste)
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Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the diced strawberries, diced pineapple, chopped red onion, cilantro, and minced jalapeño. Use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture—underripe or overly soft fruit won’t hold up well.
Step 2: Add Lime Juice
Squeeze the juice of one fresh lime over the mixture. The lime not only adds acidity and brightness but also helps preserve the vibrant color of the fruit.
Step 3: Season and Taste
Add a pinch of salt and stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning—add more lime juice for brightness or more salt if needed. You can also add a touch of honey if your fruit isn’t very sweet.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld and intensifies the overall taste. It also makes the salsa wonderfully refreshing when served cold.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your strawberry pineapple salsa chilled. It’s a perfect topping for grilled fish, shrimp tacos, grilled chicken, or as a bright and tangy dip with tortilla chips.
Serving Suggestions
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Spoon over grilled chicken or shrimp for a light, tropical dinner.
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Top your favorite fish tacos for a burst of sweetness and heat.
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Serve with tortilla chips or pita chips as a healthy, fresh appetizer.
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Mix into salads or quinoa bowls for added flavor and texture.
Tips and Variations
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Add avocado: For a creamier version, add diced avocado just before serving.
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Make it spicier: Use a serrano pepper or include the jalapeño seeds.
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Use other fruits: Mango, kiwi, or peaches also work beautifully in this salsa.
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Make ahead: This salsa can be made up to 8 hours in advance. Just stir before serving.
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Adjust texture: Dice everything finely for topping tacos, or leave chunkier if serving as a dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit?
Fresh is best, but if using frozen fruit, thaw completely and drain well to avoid watery salsa.
Is this salsa spicy?
It has a gentle kick from the jalapeño. For more heat, use the seeds or a spicier pepper. For less heat, omit the pepper entirely.
How long will this salsa last in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Can I make this salsa without onion?
Yes, you can skip the red onion or substitute with green onion for a milder flavor.
What if my strawberries aren’t very sweet?
Add a drizzle of honey or agave to balance the tartness.
Final Thoughts
This Refreshing Strawberry Pineapple Salsa is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re throwing a backyard party or just looking for a quick, healthy topping, this salsa hits all the right notes—sweet, tangy, a little spicy, and wonderfully crisp.
It’s the kind of dish that surprises people: it looks stunning, tastes like summer, and goes with just about everything. Once you try it, it might just become your new warm-weather favorite.
Refreshing Strawberry Pineapple Salsa
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the diced strawberries, diced pineapple, chopped red onion, cilantro, and minced jalapeño. Use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture—underripe or overly soft fruit won’t hold up well.
- Squeeze the juice of one fresh lime over the mixture. The lime not only adds acidity and brightness but also helps preserve the vibrant color of the fruit.
- Add a pinch of salt and stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning—add more lime juice for brightness or more salt if needed. You can also add a touch of honey if your fruit isn’t very sweet.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld and intensifies the overall taste. It also makes the salsa wonderfully refreshing when served cold.
- Serve your strawberry pineapple salsa chilled. It’s a perfect topping for grilled fish, shrimp tacos, grilled chicken, or as a bright and tangy dip with tortilla chips.
