Photo by David B. Moore

1. SANTA FE OLÉ
The entire panel gave a thumbs-down to the overwhelming taste of black pepper in this green sauce.

2. STONEWALL KITCHEN
Thick and chunky with a spicy kick, this entry reminded one taster of homemade salsa at a good Mexican restaurant.

3. STING ‘N’ LINGER
One of the sweetest entries, this Arizona-made salsa also has an appealing aroma and appetizing appearance.

4. LAURIE’S BUFFALO GOURMET
Watery and pale, this entry is ideal for chip-dippers who like their salsa to taste mild and sweet.

5. SALSA TIMOTEO
Panelists said this made-in-Arizona salsa’s mild taste increased in spiciness with every bite.

6. CACTUS SALSA
With chunks of jalapeños and diced prickly pear cactus, this salsa won points for appearance but lacked flavor.