There’s something special about Texas summers, especially when they’re spent by the water. This year, our family packed up the cooler, grabbed our fishing poles, and headed down to Port O’Connor, Texas, for a much-needed getaway. From early mornings on the boat to laid-back evenings at the dock, the trip was all about family, fun, and of course, great food.
At Salsa De Leon, we’re all about making memories around the table – or in this case, a couple of folding chairs down by the water. After a long day reeling in the catch of the day, nothing hits the spot like simple, fresh, and flavorful meals that come together fast. That’s where our salsa always comes in handy.
Here are a couple of easy, crowd-pleasing recipes inspired by our time on the coast.
Grilled Fish Tacos with Salsa De Leon
There’s no better way to enjoy fresh-caught fish than with a stack of warm tortillas and a jar of Salsa De Leon close by.
Ingredients:
- Fresh white fish (like redfish, trout, or snapper)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded cabbage
- Lime wedges
- Salsa De Leon (Texas Mild, Hot, or Habanero Hot)
- Optional: Avocado slices, pickled onions
Instructions:
- Drizzle the fish with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill over medium heat until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Warm your tortillas and layer with grilled fish, shredded cabbage, and your favorite toppings.
- Finish with a generous spoonful of Salsa De Leon and a squeeze of lime.
These tacos taste even better with sandy feet and a sunset view. After a long day on the water, there’s nothing like gathering with family, kicking off your shoes, and enjoying a simple meal that feels like summer on a plate. The smoky flavor from the grill mixed with the bright crunch of cabbage and the bold kick of Salsa De Leon brings out the best in every bite.
Spicy Shrimp Cocktail (Coastal Style)
After a day in the sun, this chilled shrimp cocktail is a refreshing way to cool off. The crisp bite of cucumber, the bright tang of lime, and the bold, zesty flavor of Salsa De Leon come together to create a dish that’s light yet satisfying. It’s the kind of snack that hits the spot after hours of fishing, boating, or just soaking up the Texas sunshine.
Ingredients:
- Cooked, peeled shrimp
- Diced cucumber
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced red onion
- Fresh lime juice
- Ketchup
- Salsa De Leon
- Salt and pepper
- Tortilla chips or saltine crackers for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix ketchup, a few spoonfuls of Salsa De Leon, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir in diced cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
- Fold in the cooked shrimp until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Spoon into small cups and serve with chips for dipping. Perfect for snacking on the dock or while waiting for the grill to heat up.
From Our Family to Yours
Trips like this remind us why we started making salsa in the first place. Back when our kids were little, we’d bring homemade jars of salsa on every family trip, making sure we had a taste of home no matter where we were. Whether we were grilling at a campsite, picnicking at the beach, or enjoying fresh fish off the boat, our salsa was always front and center.
Today, it’s still the same story. From Port O’Connor to wherever your summer adventures take you, we hope Salsa De Leon helps bring bold flavor and happy memories to your table.
So grab your tackle box, load up the cooler, and don’t forget a jar (grab yours here!) of Salsa De Leon. After all, good food and great company are what summer’s all about.