Best Overall

If you only buy one salsa from this list, let it be this one. Mateo’s strikes the perfect balance of heat, acidity, and fresh flavors that make it nearly impossible to stop eating. It tastes as if it came directly from your favorite Mexican restaurant instead of a glass jar.

runner up

Don’t let the price tag fool you — this Aldi salsa punches well above its weight. The bright pop of cilantro and lime gives it a fresh, vibrant flavor that many competitors lack. The only downside? It’s only sold in stores and not online. You can check your local delivery apps, like DoorDash, to see if it’s available for delivery through those.

best mild

For people who prefer flavor over fire, this Target find delivers a smooth, roasted depth without a hint of overwhelming heat. The organic ingredients shine through in every bite, giving it a clean, wholesome taste that’s perfect for picky kids’ palettes.

best medium

New to Trader Joe’s this year, the Salsa Taquera is quickly gaining a cult following among shoppers for good reason. It has a bold, ever-so-slightly smoky flavor with just enough heat to keep you on your toes without veering into five-alarm fire territory. Like our Aldi pick, this one is also available in-store only.

best hot

This one is not for the faint of heart, and that’s exactly the point. Mrs. Renfro’s delivers a serious (but not overpowering) slow-burning heat that spice lovers will obsess over. What sets it apart from other hot salsas is that the flavor doesn’t get lost in the heat. It’s fiery and delicious in equal measure. If you prefer things even hotter than habanero, Mrs. Renfro’s also has a Ghost Pepper version that truly takes the heat to the next level.

Best Chunky

If texture is your top priority, this Sprouts salsa will be your new best friend. Loaded with hearty, visible chunks of tomato and pepper, it has a satisfying bite that thinner salsa simply can’t compete with.

Best Smoky

Cholula brings that same beloved boldness from its iconic hot sauce to this deeply smoky chipotle salsa. The rich, complex flavor has a campfire-like depth that’s unlike any other salsa on this list.

best fruit salsa

Sweet, tangy, and chunky, this Wegmans gem is proof that fruit salsas deserve a spot on your summer table. The pineapple and mango bring a tropical brightness that pairs beautifully with fish tacos, grilled chicken, or simply scooped up with some lime tortilla chips. It’s a little unexpected and completely addictive. You can grab this one in stores or get it delivered through DoorDash (though it’s a little more expensive that way).

best verde

Tomatillo-based salsas have a more tart, tangy personality than their roja cousin. This Trader Joe’s salsa verde has been my go-to for eggs for more than a decade. I can’t get enough of its bright, herby flavor, and its pleasant acidity that’s also great for cutting through rich, heavy dishes. In stores, it’s only $3, but if you don’t live near a Trader Joe’s, Amazon has a two-pack for about $15.

best roasted

Fire roasting takes this salsa to a whole other level, lending it a deep, caramelized richness that regular tomato salsas just can’t achieve. Every ingredient tastes like it spent quality time over an open flame, resulting in a complex, slightly sweet flavor that feels anything but ordinary.