Pico de Gallo Recipe

This Pico de Gallo is a simple and vibrant salsa made from fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s the perfect topping for tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip with tortilla chips. The fresh ingredients and bright flavors make this salsa an essential addition to any Mexican-inspired meal.

Pico de Gallo

I love making Pico de Gallo because it’s so fresh and easy to prepare. The combination of juicy tomatoes, sharp onions, zesty lime juice, and cilantro creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it with chips or adding it to your favorite Mexican dishes, this salsa brings a burst of freshness to any meal. Plus, it’s super customizable—you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste or add extra ingredients like avocado or jalapeños.

This Pico de Gallo pairs perfectly with Homemade Beef Lo Mein Recipe for a fun fusion meal, or you can serve it as a refreshing side for Taco Stuffed Shells Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Pico de Gallo Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: Made with fresh ingredients, this salsa is bursting with vibrant flavors.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this salsa ready in minutes.
• Versatile: Use it as a dip, a topping, or a side dish for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or even salads.
• Healthy and Light: It’s naturally low in calories and packed with vitamins from the fresh veggies.

Main Ingredients for Pico de Gallo

1. Roma Tomatoes – Juicy and slightly firm, perfect for making fresh salsa.
2. Onion – Adds sharpness and a little bite to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
3. Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herby flavor that’s essential in Mexican cuisine.
4. Lime Juice – The acidity brightens up the flavors and gives the salsa a zesty kick.
5. Jalapeño – Adds a bit of heat (optional, depending on your spice preference).
6. Salt – Brings all the flavors together and enhances the taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pico de Gallo Recipe

Here’s how to make this fresh and delicious Pico de Gallo step by step:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Dice 4 medium Roma tomatoes into small, even pieces. If you prefer a less watery salsa, you can remove the seeds before dicing.
   • Pro Tip: Use ripe but firm tomatoes for the best texture and flavor in your salsa.
2. Dice the Onion: Finely dice 1 small white onion. The onion should be chopped small enough that it adds flavor without overpowering the salsa.
   • Variation: You can also use red onion for a slightly milder, sweeter flavor.
3. Chop the Cilantro: Finely chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro leaves. Be sure to include some stems, as they have a lot of flavor.
   • Tip: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can reduce the amount or leave it out completely.
4. Dice the Jalapeño: If you like some heat, finely dice 1 jalapeño. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping.
   • Pro Tip: If you want more heat, leave the seeds in or add an additional jalapeño.
5. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Add the juice of 1 lime and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
   • Tip: Let the salsa sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the Pico de Gallo and adjust the lime juice, salt, or cilantro to your preference.
   • Serving Idea: Serve the Pico de Gallo immediately or refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Add Avocado: For a creamier texture, add diced avocado to the salsa just before serving.
• Make it Spicier: Add chopped serrano peppers or more jalapeños if you like extra heat.
• Use Different Citrus: You can replace the lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different flavor.
• How to Store: Store leftover Pico de Gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will still taste great after chilling.

Health Benefits of Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo is packed with fresh vegetables, making it a healthy addition to any meal. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while onions and cilantro provide vitamins and minerals. Lime juice adds a boost of vitamin C, making this salsa not only delicious but also nutritious.

• High in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Low in Calories: This salsa is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a great healthy snack or topping.
• Rich in Vitamins: The fresh ingredients in Pico de Gallo are full of vitamins A, C, and K, supporting your immune system and overall wellness.