Pico de Gallo is a fresh and zesty salsa that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. This simple recipe combines tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice for a classic Mexican condiment. Serve it with tortilla chips, use it as a topping for tacos, or add it to your grilled meats and salads for a refreshing and flavorful touch. This salsa is easy to make and always a hit at gatherings.
Pico de Gallo is a fresh and zesty salsa that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. This simple recipe combines tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice for a classic Mexican condiment. Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to make this refreshing salsa.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound roma tomatoes (4 medium): These tomatoes provide a firm texture and vibrant flavor.
- 1 large yellow onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the salsa.
- 2 medium jalapeño peppers: Gives the salsa a mild heat; adjust the amount for spiciness.
- 1/2 medium bunch fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the salsa.
- 3 medium limes: Provides acidity and brightness to balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed: Enhances all the flavors in the salsa.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Dice 1 pound of roma tomatoes (about 2 cups) and add them to a medium bowl.
- Step 2:
- Dice 1 large yellow onion until you have about 2 cups and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Step 3:
- Trim and remove the seeds from 2 medium jalapeño peppers, then cut them into small dice (about 1/4 cup) and add to the bowl.
- Step 4:
- Coarsely chop the leaves and tender stems of 1/2 medium bunch fresh cilantro until you have 1 cup and add to the bowl.
- Step 5:
- Juice 3 medium limes (about 1/2 cup) and strain out any pith. Add the lime juice to the bowl.
- Step 6:
- Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to the bowl and stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Step 7:
- Refrigerate the pico de gallo until the tomatoes release some juice and everything looks a bit softened, about 20 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Stir again before serving. Taste and season with more kosher salt if needed.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Pico de Gallo with tortilla chips for a classic appetizer or snack.
- Use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or salads for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The lime juice will begin to lose its fresh flavor after 2 days, and the texture of the pico de gallo will soften.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier pico de gallo, use 2 deseeded serrano peppers instead of jalapeños.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing them.
- For a summer pico de gallo, use 1 pound of heirloom tomatoes instead of roma tomatoes for a more vibrant and varied flavor.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless suggests letting the pico de gallo sit for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Chef Pati Jinich recommends using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Chef Bobby Flay advises tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed, especially the lime juice and salt.