Pico De Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a vibrant, savory salsa featuring chopped vegetables and olives, perfect for snacking or as a dip. Its bold flavors are complemented by a tangy vinegar and olive oil dressing, making it a versatile addition to chips, tacos, or grilled dishes. Ideal for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped black olives, chopped green chilies, chopped onion, and chopped tomato in a bowl.
- Mix vinegar, olive oil, and garlic salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine the two mixtures and chill for 2 to 4 hours.
- Drain before serving with chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh lime juice instead of vinegar. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned if they're in season. This dish works well as a topping for tacos or as a refreshing side to accompany dishes like Taco Salad Dressing or Oven-Baked Mexi-Fries.
Serving Suggestions
Pico de gallo is best served chilled with tortilla chips for a classic appetizer. It also makes a fantastic topping for grilled meats, tacos, or burritos. For a vibrant meal, serve alongside Fiesta Corn Salad or as a fresh side with any of your favorite Mexican recipes. This dish is a crowd-pleaser at parties and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time, enhancing the taste. To refresh the pico de gallo before serving, simply give it a gentle stir. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the tomatoes and onions will change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pico De Gallo contains roughly 88 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value).
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 ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, chill it for at least 2 hours before serving. However, it's best consumed within 3 days to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.
What can I use instead of black olives?
If you don't have black olives, try using green olives or omit them altogether for a different flavor profile. You could also add extra chopped tomatoes or avocados for a creamy texture and freshness in your pico de gallo.
Is pico de gallo gluten-free?
Yes, pico de gallo is naturally gluten-free as it contains only vegetables and olive oil. Just ensure that any chips or accompaniments you serve with it are also gluten-free if you are catering to gluten-sensitive guests.
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).