Finely dice the ripe tomatoes. Ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts.

Chop the red onion finely. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the salsa.

Chop the fresh cilantro. This herb adds freshness and a distinct flavor to the salsa.

If using, seed and finely chop the jalapeño pepper. This will add heat; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.

Add the freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.

Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes.

Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño depending on your preference.

Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or use as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.

For best flavor, let the salsa sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.