Pico de gallo, a fresh and vibrant salsa, is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Its bright flavors and crisp textures make it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether served with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled meats, this simple recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish right at home!
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and no cooking time is required.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value per serving (1/6 of the recipe) is approximately: 30 calories, 0g fat, 7g carbohydrates, 2g fiber, 1g protein, and 3g sugar. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Gather all your ingredients: fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime, and salt. 2. Rinse the tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry. 3. Dice the tomatoes into small pieces, discarding the stems. 4. Peel the onion and chop it finely. 5. Remove the seeds from the jalapeño (if desired) and finely chop it. 6. Roughly chop a handful of fresh cilantro. 7. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. 8. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture to add tanginess. 9. Sprinkle with salt to taste, mixing well to combine. 10. Let the pico de gallo sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. 
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have jalapeños, you can use bell peppers for a milder flavor. Additionally, substitute lime with lemon juice for a different zesty twist.
Serving and Pairings
Pico de gallo pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, or fish. It’s also a great topping for burritos or nachos, enhancing the overall flavor of your meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store pico de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for later use. Avoid freezing, as the texture can become mushy when thawed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip rinsing your vegetables; it helps remove dirt and bacteria.
- Be careful not to over-salt; you can always add more later.
- Letting the salsa sit too long can make it watery; serve fresh.
- Using overly ripe tomatoes can lead to a mushy texture.
- Chopping ingredients too large can affect the flavor distribution.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley for a unique taste.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño.
- For a twist, add diced avocado for creaminess.
FAQs
Can pico de gallo be made ahead of time?
Yes, pico de gallo can be prepared a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to serve it fresh to maintain its crispness.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley, though the flavor will be different.
Is pico de gallo spicy?
The spiciness of pico de gallo depends on the amount of jalapeño used. You can adjust the heat level to your preference.
How long does pico de gallo last?
Pico de gallo can last in the fridge for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze pico de gallo?
It’s not recommended to freeze pico de gallo, as the texture will become mushy upon thawing.
Conclusion
Pico de gallo is an easy-to-make salsa that adds freshness and flavor to any meal. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this vibrant dish at your next gathering or as a topping for your favorite recipes!
Pico De Gallo Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes diced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients: fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime, and salt.
- Rinse the tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry.
- Dice the tomatoes into small pieces, discarding the stems.
- Peel the onion and chop it finely.
- Remove the seeds from the jalapeño (if desired) and finely chop it.
- Roughly chop a handful of fresh cilantro.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture to add tanginess.
- Sprinkle with salt to taste, mixing well to combine.
- Let the pico de gallo sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition
