15 Bolivian Llajua-Style Holiday Recipes for Spicy Thanksgiving Salsas

15 Bolivian Llajua-Style Holiday Recipes for Spicy Thanksgiving Salsas

Classic Tomato Llajua

vibrant bolivian tomato sauce

Classic Tomato Llajua is a vibrant and zesty Bolivian sauce that is often served as a condiment with various dishes. With its fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a kick of heat from chilies, this sauce adds a burst of flavor to grilled meats, potatoes, and more. Perfect for the festive season, Classic Tomato Llajua is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday meals.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh tomatoes 3 medium
Fresh cilantro 1 cup, chopped
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1-2, to taste
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Begin by washing and roughly chopping the fresh tomatoes and aji amarillo.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, aji amarillo, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.
  3. Blend the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency (smooth or chunky).
  4. Add lime juice and salt, then blend briefly to mix.
  5. Taste the llajua and adjust the salt or lime juice if necessary.
  6. Serve immediately or let it sit for a while to let the flavors meld. Enjoy with your favorite dishes!
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Spicy Roasted Corn Llajua

spicy roasted corn sauce

Spicy Roasted Corn Llajua is a delightful Bolivian sauce that brings together the sweetness of roasted corn with a spicy kick. Perfect for adding flavor to your holiday meals, this sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and can also be enjoyed as a dip for chips or fresh vegetables. The smoky undertones from the roasted corn combined with spices and herbs create a unique and exciting condiment that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh corn kernels 2 cups
Fresh cilantro 1 cup, chopped
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1-2, to taste
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fresh corn kernels on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, then roast for about 20-25 minutes until golden and slightly charred.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted corn, aji amarillo, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.
  3. Blend the mixture until smooth or to your preferred consistency.
  4. Add lime juice and salt, then pulse briefly to combine.
  5. Taste the llajua and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
  6. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy it with your favorite dishes or as a dip!
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Avocado and Llajua Salsa

creamy avocado llajua salsa

Avocado and Llajua Salsa is a fresh, vibrant addition to any holiday meal, combining the creamy texture of ripe avocados with the spicy, tangy flavors of traditional llajua. This salsa not only enhances grilled meats and seafood but also serves as a delicious dip for chips and fresh vegetables. Bright and flavorful, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the festive season.

Ingredients Quantity
Ripe avocados 2
Fresh cilantro 1 cup, chopped
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1-2, to taste
Lime juice 3 tablespoons
Red onion 1 small, diced
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper ½ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
  2. Mash the avocados lightly with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
  3. Add the diced red onion, chopped cilantro, aji amarillo, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
  4. Stir gently to combine all ingredients while being careful not to over-mash the avocados.
  5. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning, adding more lime juice or aji amarillo if desired.
  6. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite grilled dishes. Enjoy!
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Pineapple Llajua With Cilantro

pineapple cilantro salsa recipe

Pineapple Llajua with Cilantro is a vibrant and zesty salsa that beautifully blends the sweetness of fresh pineapple with the aromatic flavors of cilantro and the traditional heat of aji chili. This refreshing condiment adds a tropical flair to any holiday feast, perfect for pairing with grilled meats, fish, or simply enjoyed with tortilla chips. It’s an easy-to-make delight that complements festive flavors.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh pineapple 1 cup, diced
Fresh cilantro ½ cup, chopped
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1-2, minced
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Red onion 1 small, diced
Salt ½ teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced fresh pineapple, chopped cilantro, minced aji amarillo, diced red onion, and lime juice.
  2. Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt.
  3. Gently toss all ingredients together until well mixed.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired; add more lime juice or aji amarillo for additional flavor.
  5. Serve immediately as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled foods or as a tasty dip with chips. Enjoy!
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Llajua Verde With Tomatillos

tangy tomatillo salsa recipe

Llajua Verde with Tomatillos is a tangy and flavorful salsa that makes a perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal. This vibrant green salsa combines the tartness of tomatillos with fresh herbs and a kick of heat, resulting in a refreshing dip or condiment that enhances the flavors of grilled meats, tacos, or even chips. Its bright color and lively taste will surely add a festive feel to your holiday spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Tomatillos (husked) 4-5, quartered
Fresh cilantro 1 cup, packed
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1, minced
Lime juice 3 tablespoons
Garlic 1 clove, minced
Salt ½ teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Start by boiling the quartered tomatillos in a pot of salted water for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re tender.
  2. Drain the tomatillos and place them in a blender along with the fresh cilantro, minced aji amarillo, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and olive oil.
  3. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning and lime juice to taste.
  4. Transfer to a serving bowl and let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve as a flavorful dip or condiment alongside your favorite holiday dishes. Enjoy!
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Grilled Vegetable Llajua

grilled vegetable salsa dip

Grilled Vegetable Llajua is a delicious and vibrant salsa that captures the essence of Bolivian flavors by incorporating a variety of charred vegetables. This smoky and savory condiment enhances any holiday feasting experience, serving as a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, tacos, or as a dip for crunchy tortilla chips. Celebrating the natural sweetness of vegetables combined with the tangy kick of ingredients, this llajua is sure to elevate your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers (assorted colors) 2, halved
Zucchini 1, sliced lengthwise
Red onion 1, quartered
Tomatoes 2, halved
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh cilantro ½ cup, chopped
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1, minced
Lime juice 3 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt.
  2. Grill the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and tomatoes for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have grill marks.
  3. Remove the vegetables from the grill and let cool slightly before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled vegetables with chopped cilantro, minced aji amarillo, lime juice, and salt. Mix well to combine.
  5. Let the llajua sit for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy as a dip or condiment alongside your holiday meals!
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Mango Llajua With Lime

mango salsa with lime

Mango Llajua With Lime is a refreshing twist on the traditional Bolivian salsa, combining the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the zesty brightness of lime. This vibrant condiment offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, and even as a colorful topping for tacos during your holiday celebrations.

Ingredients Quantity
Ripe mango 2, diced
Red onion 1, finely chopped
Fresh cilantro ½ cup, chopped
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1, minced
Salt ½ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro.
  2. Add in the lime juice, minced aji amarillo, and salt, mixing everything gently to combine.
  3. Let the llajua rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Serve as a refreshing dip or condiment alongside your holiday dishes!
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Llajua With Charred Peppers

spicy charred pepper condiment

Llajua With Charred Peppers is a spicy and smoky variation of the traditional Bolivian condiment. This version incorporates charred peppers to enhance its depth of flavor, making it a fantastic accompaniment for grilled meats and a perfect addition to any holiday spread. The robust taste of charred peppers combined with the tangy notes makes this llajua a must-try for your festive table.

Ingredients Quantity
Charred bell peppers 2, chopped
Fresh tomatoes 2, diced
Red onion 1, finely chopped
Fresh cilantro ½ cup, chopped
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Aji panca (smoked chili) 1 tablespoon, minced
Salt ½ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Begin by charring the bell peppers on a grill or over an open flame until they are blistered and blackened. Allow them to cool, then chop.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped charred peppers, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro.
  3. Stir in the lime juice, minced aji panca, and salt, mixing thoroughly.
  4. Let the llajua sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop before serving alongside your favorite holiday dishes!
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Cilantro and Lime Llajua

cilantro lime sauce recipe

Cilantro and Lime Llajua is a refreshing and zesty take on the classic Bolivian condiment that brightens up any meal. This version highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro and tangy lime, making it a perfect complement to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even traditional Bolivian dishes like salteñas or anticuchos. It’s easy to prepare and will add a burst of flavor to your holiday festivities.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cilantro 1 cup, chopped
Fresh tomatoes 2, diced
Red onion ½, finely chopped
Lime juice 3 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1 tablespoon, minced

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion.
  2. Pour in the lime juice and add the minced aji amarillo and salt.
  3. Mix the ingredients well to combine, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
  4. Allow the llajua to rest for at least 5 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy it with your holiday dishes!
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Sweet and Spicy Llajua

sweet and spicy sauce

Sweet and Spicy Llajua is an exciting twist on the traditional Bolivian sauce that brings together a harmonious blend of sweetness and heat. Featuring ripe mango and a hint of spice from aji peppers, this version of llajua is perfect for adding a unique and vibrant burst of flavor to holiday dishes like grilled meats or seafood, enhancing the festive atmosphere of your gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Ripe mango, diced 1 cup
Fresh cilantro, chopped ½ cup
Red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Aji amarillo (yellow chili) 1 tablespoon, minced
Honey 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped red onion.
  2. Add lime juice, minced aji amarillo, honey, and salt to the mixture.
  3. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
  4. Let the llajua sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve alongside your holiday meals!

Llajua With Black Beans

hearty black bean sauce

Llajua With Black Beans offers a hearty and rich variation of the traditional Bolivian sauce. Combining the deep flavors of black beans with the fresh and zesty ingredients of a classic llajua, this version is perfect for enhancing your holiday meals, providing a robust addition to grilled vegetables, meats, or even as a dip.

Ingredients Quantity
Black beans, cooked and drained 1 cup
Fresh cilantro, chopped ½ cup
Red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Aji rojo (red chili) 1 tablespoon, minced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked black beans, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped red onion.
  2. Add lime juice, minced aji rojo, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
  3. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
  4. Allow the llajua to rest for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving as a side to your holiday dishes!

Smoky Chipotle Llajua

smoky chipotle sauce recipe

Smoky Chipotle Llajua is a bold and flavorful twist on the traditional Bolivian sauce. This version incorporates the deep, smoky flavors of chipotle peppers, giving your holiday meals a delightful kick and depth that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a zesty dip.

Ingredients Quantity
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2 tablespoons
Fresh cilantro, chopped ½ cup
Red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chipotle peppers, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped red onion.
  2. Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
  3. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are combined, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
  4. Let the smoky chipotle llajua sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy as a side or dip for your holiday festivities!

Tomato and Herb Llajua

fresh tomato herb sauce

Tomato and Herb Llajua is a vibrant and fresh take on the traditional Bolivian sauce, perfect for brightening up holiday dishes. This version highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes combined with fragrant herbs, creating a delightful condiment that pairs beautifully with meats, seafood, and grilled vegetables.

Ingredients Quantity
Ripe tomatoes, chopped 2 cups
Fresh cilantro, chopped ½ cup
Fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup
Red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup
Lime juice 3 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cilantro, parsley, and red onion.
  2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, then add salt and pepper.
  3. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Let the llajua sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving. Enjoy with your holiday meals!

Zesty Citrus Llajua

zesty citrus holiday condiment

Zesty Citrus Llajua is a refreshing twist on the classic Bolivian condiment that incorporates bright citrus flavors, making it the perfect accompaniment for holiday feasts. This vibrant sauce blends zesty lime and orange juice with fresh herbs and spices, giving it a lively flavor that enhances grilled meats, fish, or even as a dip for chips.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cilantro, chopped ½ cup
Fresh mint, chopped ¼ cup
Red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Orange juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine all the chopped ingredients: cilantro, mint, onion.
  2. Add lime juice and orange juice, followed by olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir well to mix everything thoroughly.
  4. Allow the llajua to rest for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy with your holiday dishes!

Llajua With Fresh Radishes

crunchy radish llajua delight

Llajua With Fresh Radishes is a delightful variation of the traditional Bolivian condiment that offers a crunchy texture and a refreshing taste. The addition of fresh radishes provides a peppery bite that complements the zesty flavors typical of llajua, making it a perfect accompaniment for grilled meats and festive holiday dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cilantro, chopped ½ cup
Fresh radishes, finely diced ½ cup
Tomato, finely chopped 1 medium
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, diced radishes, and chopped tomato.
  2. Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
  3. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Let the llajua sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to develop before serving. Enjoy this zesty condiment with your holiday meals!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.