Basic Salsa

I think I said before that its surprising how I haven't shared something as simple as salsa on here before. There is a recipe for pico de gallo I shared not too long ago, but sometimes there are dishes that a saucier salsa works better for (like for using in Chicken Flautas). I know everyone has particular things they like or dislike in salsa, so you'll just have to see what you think of the ingredient list for this one. We like it as our basic, go-to salsa that goes well with about anything and can be mixed up quickly. You can adapt it easily depending on things you like or don't.

Salsa
2 cups chopped tomato
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green pepper
2 Tbs lemon juice
1 Tbs chopped cilantro
1 clove minced garlic
1/8 tsp black pepper
salt to taste (start with about 1/4 tsp or so)
1/2 cup tomato paste (about one can)
green chilies, jalepeno, or other form of pepper for kick

Stir together all ingredients except tomato paste. Put about half of mixture into a blender with the tomato paste and puree. Mix back together, chill, and serve.

Notes: This can be as smooth or chunky as you'd like depending how much you blend with the tomato paste. Sometimes, I just roughly chop all my ingredients and blend it all just a bit, especially if I'm in a hurry. I love cilantro and probably put more like 2 Tbs. My husband often adds extra lemon juice. Like I said, just tweak to what you like!