Start by washing the tomatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Dice them into small pieces, ensuring the seeds are removed for a less watery salsa.

Peel and finely chop the red onion. The smaller the pieces, the better they will blend with the other ingredients.

Chop the fresh cilantro, making sure to remove any thick stems. This herb adds a fresh flavor that is essential in salsa.

For the jalapeño, cut it in half, remove the seeds (if you prefer less heat), and finely dice it. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Mince the garlic cloves. Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor to the salsa.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and minced garlic. Stir gently to mix the ingredients without mashing them.

Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. The acidity of the lime juice will brighten the flavors and help preserve the freshness of the salsa.

Add salt and black pepper to taste. Start with the specified amounts and adjust as needed.

Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more lime juice, salt, or pepper based on your preference.

Let the salsa sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.