Pico De Gallo(Salsa With Cilantro)
A fresh, vibrant pico de gallo featuring diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeno, cilantro, and a tangy lemon juice, perfect for snacking or as a dip with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the tomatoes by hand and place them in a bowl.
- Put the chopped onion and jalapeno in a food processor and chop very fine.
- Chop the cilantro finely in a food processor.
- Mix all the ingredients together.
- Add lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and water, and stir well.
- Keep the pico de gallo refrigerated until use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the jalapeno or add an extra one. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned diced tomatoes can be a suitable substitute. You can also swap lemon juice for lime juice for a different flavor profile. Consider adding diced avocados for creaminess, enhancing the classic Pico De Gallo experience.
Serving Suggestions
Pico de gallo is a versatile salsa that pairs beautifully with Santa Fe-Style Chicken Breasts or is perfect as a topping for tacos and burritos. Serve it alongside tortilla chips for a refreshing appetizer or as a condiment for grilled meats. It can also enhance dishes like Mexican Fried Rice or Stuffed Mexican Peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pico de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain freshness, avoid mixing in too much salt until ready to serve, as it can draw moisture and affect texture. This salsa is best enjoyed cold, so no need to reheat; simply stir before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pico De Gallo(Salsa With Cilantro) contains roughly 213 calories, with 9g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (199% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1957mg per serving (85% 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, pico de gallo can be made a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to prepare it fresh for optimal flavor and texture. If making ahead, store it in the refrigerator without adding salt until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I substitute for cilantro?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can replace it with parsley for a milder flavor. Alternatively, try a small amount of fresh mint or basil for a unique twist. Just remember that the taste will differ from traditional pico de gallo.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the pico de gallo?
To adjust the spiciness, control the amount of jalapeno you use. Start with half and gradually increase to your desired heat level. If it’s too spicy, add more tomatoes to balance the heat, or incorporate diced bell peppers to mellow the flavor.
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).