Tomatillo substitutes
Tomatillo substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Green tomatoes
Same amount as the tomatillo
Similar fruit with different flavor.
The best substitutes for tomatillo are green tomatoes, gooseberries, or green bell peppers with lime, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- salsas
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of tomatillo | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Green tomatoessalsas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Gooseberriessalsas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Green bell peppers + limesalsas | Same amountPlus lime juiceTweak it | Tweak it |
Green tomatoes
different taste, similar texture
Similar fruit with different flavor.
- Best for
- salsas, sauces, cooking, marinades
Different flavor, similar texture - add lime juice.
Gooseberries
different taste, similar texture
Similar fruit with different source.
- Best for
- salsas, sauces, cooking, desserts
Different source, similar tartness.
Green bell peppers + lime
different taste, similar texture
Similar vegetable with different flavor.
- Best for
- salsas, sauces, cooking, marinades
Different flavor, similar texture - add lime juice.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use green tomatoes instead of tomatillos?
Yes, green tomatoes with lime juice are the best substitute for tomatillos in most recipes.
What's the difference between tomatillos and green tomatoes?
Tomatillos have a more tart, citrusy flavor and are covered in a papery husk, while green tomatoes are unripe regular tomatoes.
Do I need to remove the husk from tomatillos?
Yes, remove the papery husk and wash the tomatillos before using in recipes.
Tips for substituting tomatillo
4 tips- Tomatillos have a unique tart, citrusy flavor that's hard to replicate
- Green tomatoes with lime juice come closest to tomatillo flavor
- Remove the husk and wash tomatillos before using
- Tomatillos are best when firm and bright green