Pico de Gallo, also known as “salsa fresca” or “salsa cruda,” is a fresh, vibrant Mexican condiment that’s a staple in many households. This simple and flavorful salsa is made from fresh ingredients and is incredibly versatile. It can be used as a topping for tacos, a dip for chips, or a fresh side for grilled meats. The beauty of Pico de Gallo lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors between the fresh vegetables, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, diced finely
- 1 medium serrano or jalapeno pepper, ribs and stem, seeds removed
- 4 large tomatoes, chopped small
- ¼ cup lime juice
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ cup finely chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preparing all your vegetables. Dice the small onion finely to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients. For a little heat, finely chop the serrano or jalapeno pepper, making sure to remove the ribs, stem, and seeds to control the spiciness. If you prefer a milder Pico de Gallo, you can use less of the pepper or omit it entirely.
2. Chop the Tomatoes
Next, chop the tomatoes into small, even pieces. The key to a good Pico de Gallo is balancing the size of all the chopped ingredients so that each bite is a perfect mix of flavors. If the tomatoes are particularly juicy, you can remove some of the seeds and excess liquid to prevent the Pico de Gallo from becoming too watery.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, chopped tomatoes, and serrano or jalapeno pepper. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together.
4. Add the Lime Juice and Salt
Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice. The acidity of the lime juice not only adds a refreshing tang but also helps to balance the flavors and brings out the freshness of the ingredients. Sprinkle the fine sea salt over the mixture. The salt will help to draw out the natural juices from the vegetables, creating a delicious, well-seasoned salsa.
5. Incorporate the Cilantro
Finely chop the cilantro and add it to the bowl. Cilantro is a key ingredient in Pico de Gallo, providing a burst of freshness that complements the other flavors. If you’re one of those people who find cilantro to be too strong or soapy, you can reduce the amount or substitute it with fresh parsley.
6. Stir and Taste
Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed. Take a taste to check the seasoning. If necessary, add a little more lime juice or salt to achieve the desired flavor balance.
7. Let It Sit
For the best flavor, let the Pico de Gallo sit for about 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salt to draw out the juices from the vegetables, creating a more cohesive and flavorful salsa.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Pico de Gallo is incredibly versatile. Serve it with tortilla chips as a fresh salsa dip, spoon it over tacos, burritos, or grilled meats, or use it as a fresh topping for nachos. It’s also a great addition to breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs or as a side for a hearty Mexican meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier Pico de Gallo, you can leave some of the seeds in the pepper or use a hotter variety of pepper like a habanero. For a milder version, use less pepper or substitute with a milder chili like a poblano.
- Add Avocado: For a creamier texture, try adding diced avocado to your Pico de Gallo. This adds richness and complements the fresh, zesty flavors.
- Use Different Tomatoes: While any ripe tomatoes will work, Roma tomatoes are a popular choice for Pico de Gallo due to their firm texture and lower moisture content, which helps prevent the salsa from becoming too watery.
- Extra Citrus: Some people like to add a splash of orange juice along with the lime juice for a slightly sweeter citrus note.
- Storage: Pico de Gallo is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, but the texture may become softer.
Pico de Gallo is a fresh and flavorful salsa that adds a burst of vibrant taste to any dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a versatile condiment that’s perfect for adding a touch of freshness to your meals. Whether you’re serving it at a party with chips or using it as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes, Pico de Gallo is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the zesty, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors of this classic Mexican salsa, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences
