Pico De Gallo is a beloved Mexican salsa and is renowned for its abundance of fresh and vibrant flavors. This classic condiment features a delightful combination of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeno peppers, zesty lime juice, and basic seasonings. With its refreshing taste, Pico de Gallo stands out as one of the finest dips, perfectly complementing tortilla chips, tacos, quesadillas, chicken fajitas, and an array of other Mexican dishes.
To facilitate the preparation of this delectable salsa, I have provided an easy-to-follow recipe accompanied by a detailed instructional video, ensuring a visually clear and enjoyable cooking experience.
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What is Pico De Gallo?
Pico de Gallo is a classic salsa known for its fresh, tangy, and bold flavors. Made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeno peppers come together to create their distinctive flavor profile. With a refreshing taste, it offers a perfect balance of acidity and spice. Whether you're seeking a vibrant topping or a zesty party dip, Pico de Gallo is the perfect accompaniment that adds a lively touch to many Mexican-inspired dishes.
Originating in Mexico, Pico de Gallo has become a beloved condiment worldwide for its ability to elevate flavors and add a refreshing kick to any meal. This versatile salsa has not only gained popularity under its traditional name but also goes by alternative names such as Salsa Fresca, Salsa Mexicana, and Salsa Cruda, varying according to regional and cultural preferences.
Making Pico de Gallo at home is incredibly easy and rewarding. The use of fresh ingredients is what sets this dish apart, as it captures the essence of ripe tomatoes, aromatic onions, fragrant cilantro, and the mild heat of jalapeno peppers. This combination not only creates a burst of flavors but also adds a vibrant visual appeal to any plate. This versatile salsa has the power to transform a regular dinner into a lively and festive experience.
Whether you're serving it alongside tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or as a topping for nachos, this zesty salsa is sure to impress. So grab those fresh ingredients, chop away, and enjoy the lively medley of flavors that Pico De Gallo has to offer.
Ingredients & Substitutions
To prepare this flavorful Pico De Gallo, you'll need a handful of basic seasonings and fresh produce that are readily available in most grocery stores. Let's explore the essential ingredients that make up this vibrant salsa.
- White onion: White onions have a sharp and spicy flavor. They provide a distinct onion taste to pico de gallo. If you don't have white onions, you can substitute them with red onions, which have a slightly milder flavor
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes add a juicy and slightly sweet flavor to pico de gallo. They also provide a refreshing and tangy element
- Jalapeno peppers: Jalapeno peppers add a spicy kick to pico de gallo. They have a moderate heat level and a slightly grassy flavor. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeno peppers or substitute them with milder peppers
- Lime juice: Lime juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to pico de gallo. It helps balance the flavors and adds a refreshing citrus note. You can use lemon juice as a substitute if you don't have limes
- Black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle heat and a warm, earthy flavor to pico de gallo. It complements the other ingredients and enhances their flavors. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best taste
- Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients in pico de gallo. Use it to taste, but be careful not to add too much.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a savory and aromatic flavor to pico de gallo. It provides depth and richness to the overall taste
- Cilantro leaves: It is also known as coriander leaves, contribute a fresh and citrusy flavor to pico de gallo. They add a vibrant herbal note. However, cilantro has a polarizing taste, and some people find it soapy or unpleasant. If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or omit it altogether
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Pico De Gallo at Home?
The recipe I have shared here is Pico De Gallo, a fresh and zesty salsa bursting with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeno peppers. The perfect balance of flavors and textures elevates your Mexican dishes and adds a vibrant kick to your taste buds.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
- Prep Tomatoes: Start by selecting fresh and ripe tomatoes. Give them a good rinse under cold water and gently pat them dry. Once dried, remove the tough stem part and proceed to chop the tomatoes into small pieces. Transfer the chopped tomatoes to a mixing bowl
- Dice the onion: Peel off the outer papery layer of the onion to reveal the crisp, white flesh underneath. Dice the onion finely and add it to the bowl
- Add cilantro/coriander leaves: Take a small bunch of cilantro leaves and give them a gentle rinse under cold water. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. Chop the cilantro leaves and add the fragrant herb to the bowl
- Add some heat: Moving on to the jalapeno peppers, these can add a spicy kick to the Pico. Begin by removing the stem part and cutting the peppers in half lengthwise. If desired, you can wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat. Take caution while handling the peppers and avoid touching your face or eyes. Carefully remove the veins and seeds from the peppers, and dice the jalapeno peppers into small pieces. Adjust the number of jalapeno peppers based on your preference for spiciness, adding more or less accordingly
- Add other seasonings: Finally, add minced garlic, lime juice, black pepper, and salt into the mix. Mix all these ingredients into the bowl with the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeno peppers
- Rest then serve: Cover the bowl and allow the mixture to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to marry and intensify, resulting in a flavorful and delicious blend
Tips
- Fresh ingredients: Start with fresh and ripe tomatoes, as they are the star of this salsa. Choose firm tomatoes with vibrant colors and a slightly sweet aroma
- Uniform chopping: Aim for uniform and small dice when chopping the tomatoes, onions, and jalapeno peppers. This ensures consistent flavor distribution and a pleasant texture
- Adjust spiciness: Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers based on your preference for spiciness. Remove the seeds and veins for milder heat, or leave them in for a spicier kick
- Balance flavors: Find the perfect balance of flavors by adding minced garlic, lime juice, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking
- Resting time: Allow the Pico de Gallo to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in a more delicious salsa
- Drain excess liquid: As the tomatoes release water, drain the excess liquid before serving. This prevents the salsa from becoming too watery and maintains a desirable texture
- Serve fresh: Pico de Gallo is best enjoyed fresh. While it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, the flavors are most vibrant when consumed shortly after preparation
- Other Addins: Enhance your Pico de Gallo with a variety of add-ins. Consider adding creamy avocado, tangy mango, sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, juicy pineapple, refreshing cucumber, and spicy radishes, or experimenting with different herbs like mint, basil, or parsley
Storage Suggestions
Pico De Gallo, when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, maintains its freshness for a duration of 3 to 4 days. During this time, it is normal for the tomatoes to release some water. Before enjoying it again, simply drain the excess liquid. Rest assured that the vibrant flavors of this homemade salsa will remain intact, offering a delightful addition to your meals.
Serving Suggestions
Pico De Gallo is a fresh and flavorful salsa that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some popular options below:
- Tortilla chips: Pico de gallo is often served as a dip with crispy tortilla chips. The combination of fresh salsa and crunchy chips is a classic and delicious choice
- Tacos: Pico can be used as a topping for tacos, whether filled with grilled, roasted, and baked meats, fish like grilled salmon, or blackened salmon. It adds a burst of freshness and acidity to balance the flavors
- Quesadillas: They can be a great accompaniment to cheesy quesadillas. Serve it on the side or use it as a filling to add a vibrant touch to your quesadilla
- Grilled meats: Pico De Gallo works well with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or shrimp. Spoon some over the top of the grilled protein to enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast
- Rice and beans: If you're serving a Mexican rice and beans dish, Pico De Gallo can be a fantastic addition. It adds a zesty kick to the dish and complements the earthy flavors of the beans and rice
- Tostadas: Pico can be a tasty topping for tostadas, which are crispy tortillas layered with refried beans, cheese, lettuce, and other toppings. It adds brightness and texture to the dish
- Grilled or roasted vegetables: Use it as a topping or dressing for grilled or roasted vegetables. It adds a tangy element and can enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables
Related Recipes
You can also find similar recipes below and more at salad recipes, dips & condiment recipes, and Mexican Recipes:
You might also love these Mexican Drinks:
Pico De Gallo Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Pico De Gallo recipe below that I hope will help you to make a refreshing dip at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
📖 Recipe
Pico De Gallo
Ingredients
- 1½ lb Tomato, Roma, or plum
- ½ White Onion, medium size or red onion
- 1 bunch Cilantro Leaves, small bunch
- 1 Jalapeno Peppers, seeds and veins removed then diced
- 2 tbsp Garlic, minced
- Lime Juice, squeezed from 1 lime
- ¾ tsp Black Pepper, powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
To prepare Pico De Gallo
- Begin by washing and gently drying your tomatoes. Remove the tough stem part and finely chop them into small pieces. Transfer the chopped tomatoes to a bowl
- Peel off the outer papery layer of the onion, dice it, and add it to the bowl
- Next, take a small bunch of cilantro leaves, wash and dry them, and finely chop them. Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl as well
- Proceed to remove the stem part of the jalapeno peppers and cut them in half. If desired, you can wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat. Carefully remove the veins and seeds from the peppers, then dice them into small pieces. Include them in the bowl. If you prefer a milder taste, adjust the quantity of jalapeno peppers accordingly
- Now, add the minced garlic, lime juice, black pepper, and salt to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors. Allow the Pico De Gallo to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the melding of flavors
To Serve
- Serve this vibrant and flavorful Pico De Gallo alongside tortilla chips, tacos, quesadillas, Mexican rice, or any other Mexican-inspired dishes of your choice
Video
Notes
- Fresh ingredients: Start with fresh and ripe tomatoes, as they are the star of this salsa. Choose firm tomatoes with vibrant colors and a slightly sweet aroma
- Uniform chopping: Aim for uniform and small dice when chopping the tomatoes, onions, and jalapeno peppers. This ensures consistent flavor distribution and a pleasant texture
- Adjust spiciness: Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers based on your preference for spiciness. Remove the seeds and veins for milder heat, or leave them in for a spicier kick
- Balance flavors: Find the perfect balance of flavors by adding minced garlic, lime juice, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking
- Resting time: Allow the Pico de Gallo to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in a more delicious salsa
- Drain excess liquid: As the tomatoes release water, drain the excess liquid before serving. This prevents the salsa from becoming too watery and maintains a desirable texture
- Serve fresh: Pico de Gallo is best enjoyed fresh. While it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, the flavors are most vibrant when consumed shortly after preparation
- Other Aaddins: Enhance your Pico de Gallo with a variety of add-ins. Consider adding creamy avocado, tangy mango, sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, juicy pineapple, refreshing cucumber, and spicy radishes, or experimenting with different herbs like mint, basil, or parsley
Nutrition
FAQ
If you prefer a milder version of Pico de Gallo or if you don't have jalapeno peppers on hand, you can absolutely skip them in the recipe. Jalapenos add a bit of heat and flavor to the salsa, but the other ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice will still contribute to the deliciousness of the Pico de Gallo.
Consider adding creamy avocado, tangy mango, sweet corn, crisp bell peppers, juicy pineapple, refreshing cucumber, and spicy radishes, or experimenting with different herbs like mint, basil, or parsley.
Pico de Gallo is a versatile salsa that pairs well with various dishes. Serve it alongside tortilla chips for a classic and satisfying snack. It also adds a refreshing touch to tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, grilled meats, and even as a topping for Mexican-inspired bowls or salads.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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