Pico De Gallo (Fresh Salsa)
Pico de Gallo is a vibrant, fresh Mexican salsa made with ripe tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and spicy serrano peppers. Brightened with lime juice, it offers a perfect balance of tang and heat. Ideal for snacking with chips or enhancing grilled dishes, it's a versatile condiment for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Do not peel the tomatoes.
- Chop or dice all ingredients.
- Start with one serrano pepper and taste.
- If more heat is desired, add additional peppers.
- Enjoy with chips, vegetables, or other dishes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors, let the pico de gallo sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. If you prefer milder salsa, remove the seeds from the serrano peppers. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are key; consider using heirloom varieties for a unique taste. Substitute red onion for a sweeter flavor or use green onions for a milder bite. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve pico de gallo with tortilla chips for a classic snack or as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or fish. It pairs beautifully with Chi Chi'S Mild Salsa for a flavorful dip. You can also use it to elevate a Tex-Mex Salad or Southwestern Salad. For a lighter option, enjoy it over fresh vegetables as a refreshing side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pico de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld over time, but the freshness may diminish. To refresh before serving, gently stir and add a splash of lime juice. Avoid freezing as the texture of the tomatoes and cilantro will suffer upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pico De Gallo (Fresh Salsa) contains roughly 163 calories, with 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (197% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pico de gallo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pico de gallo a few hours in advance. Just be aware that the tomatoes will release juices as it sits, which can make it a bit watery. To prevent this, drain excess liquid before serving.
What can I use instead of serrano peppers?
If serrano peppers aren't available, jalapeños are a great substitute. They are milder but can still add a nice kick. For a different flavor profile, try adding diced bell peppers for sweetness without the heat.
Is pico de gallo suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! Pico de gallo is entirely plant-based and fits perfectly into vegan recipes. It's fresh, healthy, and adds a burst of flavor to various dishes, making it a great addition to any vegan meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).