On my latest Costco trip I picked up the two pack of Kirkland organic salsa (medium heat). I have seen this product for years but hadn’t bought it before since I really didn’t need two 38 ounce jars of salsa. I do eat a LOT of salsa but I like to switch up the brands and flavors to keep things interesting.
However, our kids are now living on their own so I was able to send one bottle over to their house and I wasn’t stuck with a ton of the same flavor salsa to work through.
Taste Test
The texture of the salsa is a little watery but has enough body to make it “dippable” with chips.
The salsa is labeled as “Medium Heat” and the product lives up to the description. The combination of jalapenos, cayenne and chipotle gives the salsa a nice medium spice level that lasts with a pleasing after burn. The ancho chilis, while not hot, are great at rounding out the pepper flavor profile.
The cilantro and lime juice bring some bright freshness to the party and the onions add some texture.
The flavor of this salsa is not as complex as Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa but it is more balanced and has more heat.
Storage
The salsa can be kept unopened in the pantry for about a year with no issues.
Once opened the salsa must be stored in the refrigerator.
I have kept a jar of opened Kirkland salsa in my refrigerator for one month with no noticeable loss in product quality. After one month I will toss any leftovers.
I suspect the salsa will last more than a month in the refrigerator after being opened but at that point I am sick of looking at it.
The acid in the salsa acts as a preservative and inhibits bacterial growth. You will know the salsa has gone bad if you see any mold on the surface or if it develops an off odors.
Calories and Nutrition
Let’s take a closer look at what you get with this jar of salsa.
Nutrition Facts
You get 38 ounces of salsa in each jar. One serving is two tablespoons and there are about 35 servings per jar.
The nutritional facts for a single serving are:
- Calories: 10
- Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
- Sodium: 120mg (5% DV)
- Carbohydrates: 2g (1% DV)
- Protein: 0g
Ingredient List
The salsa has the following ingredients:
- Tomatoes
- Jalapeno peppers
- Onion
- Water
- Cilantro
- Lime juice
- Salt
- Vinegar
- Cayenne pepper
- Garlic
- Cumin
- Ancho chili pepper
- Chipotle pepper
All of the ingredients are organic and the salsa is labelled as Gluten Free.
Ways to Use the Salsa
Let’s address the elephant in the room and talk about the fact that this is a LOT of salsa. When you buy the Kirkland salsa you end up with just under FIVE POUNDS of salsa and there is no way that you are going to eat it all by scooping it up with tortilla chips!
While this is great as a chip dip there are plenty of other ways of using this stuff up. Here are some ideas:
Topping for Tacos
Salsa can be used as a topping for tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. It adds a burst of flavor and moisture to these dishes, complementing the savory fillings.
Marinade for Meat
Salsa can be used as a marinade for meat such as chicken, beef, or pork. Simply coat the meat with salsa and let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. The acidity and spices in the salsa will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
Salad Dressing
Salsa can be used as a base for a tangy salad dressing. Mix it with some olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt for a quick and easy dressing that can be drizzled over salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted meats.
Pizza Topping
Use salsa as a pizza topping instead of traditional tomato sauce for a unique twist. Spread a thin layer of salsa on the pizza crust and top with your favorite toppings, cheese, and bake as usual.
Omelette Filling
Add a spoonful of salsa to your omelette for a burst of flavor. It can be used as a filling along with cheese, vegetables, and meats for a delicious and zesty breakfast or brunch option.
Rice or Grain Bowl
Mix salsa into cooked rice, quinoa, or other grains for a quick and flavorful rice or grain bowl. Top with cooked protein, vegetables, and additional toppings for a tasty and wholesome meal.
Dip for Vegetables
Salsa can be used as a flavorful dip for fresh vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery. It’s a healthy alternative to traditional creamy dips and adds a zesty kick to your veggies.
Sandwich or Wrap Spread
Use salsa as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of flavor. It works well with various types of sandwiches, such as grilled chicken, turkey, or veggie sandwiches, and adds a tangy twist to your favorite sandwich.
Seafood Topping
Salsa can be used as a topping for seafood, such as grilled fish or shrimp. The freshness and acidity of the salsa can balance out the richness of the seafood, adding a burst of flavor.
Baked Potato Topping
Instead of traditional sour cream and chives, use salsa as a topping for baked potatoes. It adds a zesty and tangy flavor that pairs well with the creamy potato.
Costco Value
The salsa is Item Number 1385029 and it is located in the unrefrigerated grocery aisles near the other sauces and condiments.
I bought the two 38 ounce bottle of this salsa at Costco for $7.49 which works out to a cost of $0.099 per ounce.
In comparison, you can buy Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa at Costco for $0.187 per ounce or the Salsa Autentica at Trader Joe’s for $0.165 per ounce. This makes the Kirkland organic salsa look like a pretty great deal!
