Pico De Gallo(Mexican Hot Salad)
A fresh, zesty Mexican salad featuring chopped tomatoes, onions, hot peppers, and cilantro, perfect as a vibrant side or topping for various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash vegetables thoroughly.
- Chop all the vegetables into small pieces.
- Mix all chopped vegetables together in a bowl.
- Add lemon juice and a pinch of salt, then mix well.
- Let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder pico de gallo, opt for bell peppers instead of hot peppers. Freshness is key, so use ripe, juicy tomatoes and vibrant cilantro. If you have lime on hand, it can substitute for lemon juice. For added flavor, consider adding diced avocado or a splash of vinegar. This dish also pairs beautifully with Aunt Doris' Salsa for a flavorful mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve pico de gallo as a refreshing side dish or topping for tacos, grilled meats, or fish. It also works well as a dip with tortilla chips, making it a great accompaniment to Mexican Tequitos. For a complete meal, pair it with a light salad or enjoy it alongside Taco Soup To Fill A Big Roaster.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, avoid adding the lemon juice until just before serving. If the pico de gallo becomes watery, drain excess liquid before enjoying it again. It can also be used as a topping for various dishes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pico De Gallo(Mexican Hot Salad) contains roughly 114 calories, with 7g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (254% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 604mg per serving (26% 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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and consider reducing the amount of lemon juice to balance the added moisture. However, for the best pico de gallo experience, fresh ingredients are recommended.
How spicy will this pico de gallo be?
The spice level depends on the type and amount of peppers you use. For mild pico de gallo, use bell peppers or remove the seeds and membranes from hot peppers. If you enjoy heat, keep the seeds and use jalapeños or serranos for a kick. Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
Can I make pico de gallo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pico de gallo a few hours in advance. However, for best results, mix in the lemon juice just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and prevent the ingredients from becoming too soggy. Refrigerate it in an airtight container until ready to serve.
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).