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Roasted tomatillo salsa

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

11/26/2025|by Jason Klein

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa brings a fresh spark to holiday hosting, turning a classic appetizer into something far more memorable. As gatherings fill the season, this recipe from Chef Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ offers a simple way to set a warm, inviting tone right from the first bite. He takes the familiar tomatillo and layers it with fire-kissed depth, giving your table a vibrant, smoky dip that stands out among the usual spreads. Guests will recognize the comfort of chips and salsa, yet the grilled foundation makes it feel special—perfect for evenings spent around the fire or celebrating indoors with family.

Roasting the tomatillos, peppers, onions, and garlic builds a flavor that works beautifully for holiday entertaining. As the vegetables soften and char, they gain a mellow richness that balances their natural tang. The finished salsa carries a mix of smoke, heat, and brightness that pairs with everything from slow-roasted meats to simple chips between courses. It’s an easy way to elevate a staple without adding stress to your hosting routine.

Warm servings feel hearty and relaxed, ideal for a cozy gathering where the grill brings everyone together. Chilled servings offer a crisp contrast to richer dishes on the table. Either approach helps you serve something thoughtful without adding extra work as guests start arriving.

Chef Magnusson's method centers on balance, flexibility, and strong seasonal flavor. You can adjust the heat level, make it ahead, or blend it as soon as it leaves the grill—giving you room to adapt to any schedule. Whether for a game-day celebration, a summer pool party, Thanksgiving feast, or a winter holiday party, this salsa fits the moment and keeps people coming back for more.

For more food inspiration, follow our Brand Ambassador, Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ, on his social media platforms and order his award-winning rubs and cookbook at BigSwedeBBQ.com.

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Ingredients

  • 10 Tomatillos
  • 1 Yellow Onion
  • 2 Fresno Peppers
  • 12 Jalapenos
  • 2 Caribe Peppers
  • 2 Whole Garlic Bulbs
  • 5 Roma Tomatoes
  • 2 Tbs Big Swede BBQ Badass Texas Boost or your favorite SPG rub
  • 1 bunch Cilantro, chopped
  • 1 Tbs Cumin
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth
  • 1/2 Can Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Directions

  1. Preheat your TrueFlame grill by igniting all main burners. Then close the hood and allow the grill to heat for 10 to 15 minutes; the hood thermometer should reach approximately 450°F. Turn off all the knobs except one.
  2. Roast all the vegetables over the hot zone. When the vegetables have a good char and are cooked through, move them to the warm side of the grill. Some of the vegetables will cook faster than others. Continue until all the vegetables have a good char and are cooked through.
  3. Let the roasted vegetables cool for a couple of minutes. Then peel the garlic bulbs and remove some of the charred skin from the peppers. Place all the roasted vegetables in a large stockpot with the cumin, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, cilantro, and chicken broth. Season the pot with the Big Swede BBQ Badass Texas Boost, or your favorite SPG rub.
  4. Mix with an immersion blender until smooth. Add salt or pepper if needed. Serve with Tortilla Chips.

Created by our Brand Ambassador, Chef Johan Magnusson of BigSwedeBBQ.com