Pico de Gallo is a vibrant and refreshing Mexican salsa that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, lime juice, and cilantro, this homemade salsa is the perfect accompaniment to tacos, quesadillas, nachos, or as a dip with tortilla chips. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the simple steps of making Pico de Gallo, along with some tips and serving suggestions. Get ready to elevate your Mexican cuisine with this delicious salsa!
Ingredients
To make Pico de Gallo, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup finely chopped white onion (about 1 small onion)
- 1 medium jalapeño or serrano pepper, ribs and seeds removed, finely chopped (decrease or omit if sensitive to spice, or add another if you love heat)
- ¼ cup lime juice
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, more to taste
- 1 ½ pounds ripe red tomatoes (about 8 small or 4 large), chopped
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (about 1 bunch)
Instructions
- In a medium serving bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Allow the mixture to marinate for about 5 minutes while you chop the tomatoes and cilantro.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and finely chopped cilantro to the bowl with the marinated onion mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Taste the Pico de Gallo and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt if needed. The flavors should be well-balanced, with a bright and tangy kick from the lime juice.
- For the best flavor, let the Pico de Gallo mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and intensify. You can also refrigerate it for several hours or overnight for even more enhanced flavors.
- Serve Pico de Gallo as a dip with tortilla chips or as a condiment to complement your favorite Mexican dishes. Use a slotted spoon or a large serving fork to avoid transferring too much watery tomato juice with the salsa.
- Pico de Gallo can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. This makes it a convenient and versatile addition to your meal prep routine or for entertaining guests.
Tips
- Adjust the spiciness of the Pico de Gallo by adding more or less jalapeño or serrano pepper according to your preference for heat.
- Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Look for tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes to add visual interest and unique flavors to your Pico de Gallo. Cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes can be great options.
- Feel free to customize your Pico de Gallo by adding diced avocado, mango, or even a hint of minced garlic for additional flavor dimensions.
Serving Suggestions
Pico de Gallo is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve Pico de Gallo alongside your favorite Mexican dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, or fajitas for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
- Use Pico de Gallo as a topping for grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables to enhance their taste and provide a vibrant contrast.
- Enjoy Pico de Gallo as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for nachos, adding a refreshing element to the crunchy and savory snack.
Conclusion
Pico de Gallo is a simple yet delicious salsa that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, it’s a versatile condiment that adds a zesty kick to your favorite dishes. By following these easy steps, you can make your own Pico de Gallo at home and elevate your Mexican cuisine. Enjoy the fresh flavors, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. ¡Buen provecho!