Pico de gallo is a classic Mexican salsa that’s bursting with fresh flavors. This simple yet delicious dish combines ripe tomatoes, crisp onions, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro to create a perfect accompaniment for chips, tacos, or grilled meats. Ideal for summer gatherings or any festive occasion, pico de gallo is not just a condiment but a celebration of fresh ingredients. Dive into this recipe and elevate your cooking with a taste of Mexico!
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of pico de gallo (about 1/2 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 40
– Protein: 1g
– Fat: 0.5g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 3g
This nutritional information is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly.
- Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces.
- Finely chop the onion, making sure to remove any large pieces.
- Remove the seeds from the jalapeño and mince it finely.
- Chop the cilantro, discarding any thick stems.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Squeeze the juice of two limes over the mixture.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Gently stir the mixture until well combined.
- Let the pico de gallo sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to customize your pico de gallo, you can substitute red onion for white for a milder flavor. Additionally, mango or pineapple can be added for a sweet twist. You can adjust the jalapeño based on your heat preference.
Serving and Pairings
Pico de gallo pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, or fish. It can also be used as a topping for nachos or mixed into salads for added freshness.
Storage and Reheating
To store pico de gallo, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing as the texture of the tomatoes will change. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using underripe tomatoes can lead to a bland flavor.
- Not letting the flavors meld can result in a less vibrant taste.
- Over-salting can overpower the fresh ingredients.
- Chopping ingredients unevenly can affect the texture.
- Using too much lime juice can make it too sour.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- For a milder version, use green bell pepper instead of jalapeño.
- Make it ahead of time to enhance flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Store in a glass container to prevent staining.
FAQs
How long does pico de gallo last in the fridge?
Pico de gallo can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The freshness of the ingredients does diminish over time, so it’s best enjoyed shortly after making.
Can I make pico de gallo in advance?
Yes, you can prepare pico de gallo a few hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Is pico de gallo spicy?
The spiciness of pico de gallo depends on the amount of jalapeño used. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes or use a milder pepper.
Can I add fruits to my pico de gallo?
Absolutely! Adding fruits like mango, pineapple, or even peach can give your pico de gallo a refreshing twist and sweetness that complements the savory ingredients.
What can I serve with pico de gallo?
Pico de gallo is versatile; serve it with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for nachos. It also makes a great addition to salads.
Conclusion
Pico de gallo is a delightful and fresh salsa that brightens up any meal. With its simple ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to add a taste of Mexico to their table. Enjoy this dish as a dip, topping, or salad for a refreshing bite that everyone will love!
Pico De Gallo Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes diced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño seeds removed and minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 avocado diced
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
- Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces.
- Finely chop the onion, making sure to remove any large pieces.
- Remove the seeds from the jalapeño and mince it finely.
- Chop the cilantro, discarding any thick stems.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Squeeze the juice of two limes over the mixture.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Gently stir the mixture until well combined.
- Let the pico de gallo sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
