Does tomatillo salsa have carbs? Decoding the green salsa's nutritional profile

November 11, 2025 •

2 min read

Did you know a single cup of raw tomatillos contains about 7.7g of total carbs? So, does tomatillo salsa have carbs? Yes, but the exact amount can vary significantly based on ingredients and preparation, making it a viable option for many diets.

Quick Summary

Tomatillo salsa contains carbohydrates, derived mainly from the tomatillos and other vegetable ingredients. The precise carb count varies depending on the recipe, especially the presence of added sugars or carb-heavy vegetables. Homemade versions often have lower and more controllable carb levels compared to some store-bought options.

Key Points

Carb Content Varies: The carbohydrate count in tomatillo salsa depends heavily on the recipe; homemade versions are typically lower in carbs than store-bought options that may contain added sugars.
Tomatillos Are Low-Carb: The primary ingredient, tomatillos, is naturally low in carbohydrates, with about 2.0 grams of net carbs per 100 grams, making them a great foundation for a low-carb salsa.
Watch Out for Add-ins: Added fruits like mango or pineapple and hidden sugars in commercial brands will increase the carb count significantly.
Fiber Impacts Net Carbs: Tomatillos are a good source of fiber, which helps to lower the net carb count, a key metric for those on keto or low-carb diets.
Homemade is Best: Making your own tomatillo salsa allows for precise control over ingredients and preparation, ensuring the lowest possible carb count.
Beyond Carbs: Tomatillo salsa also provides valuable nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, in addition to being low in carbs.

Tomatillo salsa, or salsa verde, is a vibrant and tangy condiment beloved in Mexican cuisine. For those monitoring their carbohydrate intake, understanding the nutritional content is key. The simple answer is yes, tomatillo salsa contains carbohydrates. However, the total and net carb count is highly dependent on the recipe and preparation method.

The carb content of raw tomatillos

Tomatillos, the main ingredient, are naturally low in carbohydrates. A cup of raw, chopped tomatillos has about 7.7 grams of total carbs, significantly less than red tomatoes. This makes them a good low-carb base. Per 100 grams, raw tomatillos have approximately 3.9 grams total carbs, 1.9 grams fiber, and 2.0 grams net carbs.

Factors influencing carbohydrate levels in tomatillo salsa

The final carb count is affected by several factors:

Added Sugars: Sugar is sometimes added to balance the tartness, increasing carb content. Always check labels for this.
Other Vegetables: While ingredients like onions and garlic are low in carbs, adding fruits like mango will increase sugar and carb levels.
Serving Size: More salsa means more carbs.
Preparation Method: Homemade salsa offers control over ingredients.

Homemade vs. store-bought: a carb comparison

Carb content varies between homemade and store-bought salsas. The following table provides approximate values based on typical recipes and brands:


Type of Salsa	Serving Size (approx.)	Total Carbs (approx.)	Fiber (approx.)	Net Carbs (approx.)
Homemade (Simple Recipe)	1/4 cup	4-5g	1-2g	2-3g
Generic Store-Bought Brand	2 Tbsp	2-4g	<1g	2-3g
Sweetened Store-Bought Brand	2 Tbsp	4-6g	<1g	4-5g
Restaurant Style (Large Portion)	1/2 cup	7-10g	2-3g	5-7g

Homemade and generic brands tend to be lower in carbs, while sweetened versions or large portions can increase carb intake significantly.

How to make a low-carb tomatillo salsa

Making your own salsa is the best way to control carbs. A simple recipe involves roasting tomatillos, onion, garlic, and jalapeños, then blending with cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Roasting adds flavor without increasing carbs. For a detailed recipe, please refer to the cited source.

Health benefits beyond low carbs

Tomatillo salsa offers more than just low carbs. It's a good source of fiber, aiding digestion. It's also rich in vitamins C and K and contains antioxidants, including withanolides, which may have health benefits.

Conclusion

To answer the question, does tomatillo salsa have carbs? Yes, but it's generally a low-carb choice, especially when homemade without added sugars. Controlling ingredients and portion sizes allows you to manage the carb count effectively. Enjoying this salsa can be a healthy part of a low-carb diet. Always check nutrition labels for specific brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, tomatillo salsa is generally considered keto-friendly. Its core ingredient, the tomatillo, is naturally low in carbs. For a strict keto diet, opt for a homemade version to avoid added sugars often found in store-bought products.

Total carbs are the total amount of carbohydrates in a food. Net carbs are calculated by subtracting the fiber from the total carbs. Since tomatillos contain fiber, the net carb count is lower than the total carb count, which is useful for low-carb diets.

No, the carb count can vary significantly between different store-bought brands. Some may contain added sugars or other ingredients that increase the carbohydrate content. Always check the nutrition label for specific details.

To reduce carbs in homemade salsa, stick to simple ingredients like tomatillos, onions, and jalapeños. Avoid adding fruits or extra sweeteners. A recipe that roasts the vegetables can enhance flavor without adding sugar.

Tomatillos are lower in carbohydrates than regular red tomatoes. A cup of raw, chopped tomatillos has about 7.7g of total carbs, while a cup of chopped red tomatoes has a higher carb count.

Yes, a small amount of tomatillo salsa, such as a 2-tablespoon serving, will have a minimal impact on your daily carb intake, especially if it is a low-sugar recipe. Portions should be monitored, as with any condiment.

Beyond being low-carb, tomatillos are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. These nutrients support digestive health, immune function, and may have anti-inflammatory benefits.