RAMP SALSA VERDE – Wild, Garlicky & Peak Spring Flavor

Ramp Salsa Verde – Wild, Garlicky & Peak Spring Flavor

Introduction

It’s springtime in Chicago—and that means ramps. Chefs are losing their minds (myself included) over this wild allium that tastes like garlic and green onion had a baby. Ramps are punchy, fragrant, and only around for a few fleeting weeks, which makes them perfect for a seasonal salsa verde that hits a little different.

Why This Salsa Works

🌱 Wildly Seasonal – Ramps are only available for a short window each spring, making this salsa a rare treat.
🔥 Charred for Depth – The comal-roasted ingredients create rich, smoky flavor.
🧄 Garlicky Kick – Ramp bulbs bring serious intensity, balanced by tangy tomatillos.
🫙 Traditional Texture – Made in a molcajete for that rustic, slightly chunky finish.

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Ingredients

Ramp Salsa Verde (Yields: 1 Pint)

• 500g (1.1 lbs) tomatillos, whole

• 50g (1.75 oz) serrano chiles, whole

• 100g (3.5 oz) ramps, bulbs and greens separated

• Water, as needed

• Diamond Crystal kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Char Everything

Place tomatillos, chiles, ramp bulbs, and ramp greens on a hot comal over medium-high heat. Cook while turning until charred and tender:

• Tomatillos: 10–15 min

• Serranos: 6–8 min

• Ramp bulbs: 5–6 min

• Ramp greens: 4–5 min

Reserve everything once nicely blackened.

2️⃣ Mash It Up

In a molcajete, add ramp bulbs with a pinch of salt and a little water. Mash until semi-smooth. Add serranos and mash. Then add tomatillos and mash to your desired consistency.

3️⃣ Finish & Season

Chop the charred ramp greens and stir them into the salsa. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt—or chicken bouillon, if you’re into that (I am).

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Tips & Tricks

🔥 Use a molcajete for texture, I like this one, but a blender works in a pinch.
🔥 No ramps? Try scallions or green garlic. Not the same, but still good.
🔥 Don’t overcook the ramp greens—they burn fast!
🔥 Add more serranos if you want extra heat.
🔥 Thin it out with a splash of water if too thick.

How to Use Ramp Salsa Verde

🌮 Spoon over pork or chicken tacos
🍳 Pour on eggs for the ultimate spring breakfast
🥩 Slather it on grilled meats or roasted vegetables
🍚 Drizzle over rice and beans for extra flair

Make It & Show Me!

Try this one while ramps are in season—and tag me if you make it. I love seeing what you all come up with. IG: @goatboyintl