Finely mince the tomato, removing the seeds.

Finely mince the onion.

Finely mince the cilantro leaves.

Finely mince the jalapeno pepper, removing seeds for a milder salsa or leaving them in for extra spice.

Combine the minced tomato, onion, cilantro, and jalapeno in a serving bowl.

Refrigerate the salsa for at least 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Just before serving, squeeze the juice of 1/4 lemon into the salsa and mix well.

Serve with tortilla chips, corn bread sticks, pita bread slices, or other plain chips.

Alternatively, use as a side sauce for eggs, fish, chicken, pork, or beef dishes.

If handling fresh jalapenos, wear gloves or wash hands thoroughly to avoid irritation.