Pico de Gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a fresh and zesty Mexican condiment that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with simple, fresh ingredients, this salsa is perfect for dipping, topping, or enhancing your favorite meals. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a healthy snack, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 avocado, diced
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 40 calories, 1g of protein, 9g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 0g of fat. This nutritional value is based on the ingredients listed without the optional avocado.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly.
2. Dice the tomatoes into small cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Finely chop the onion and add it to the tomatoes.
4. Seed and mince the jalapeño peppers, adjusting the amount to your heat preference.
5. Add the jalapeños to the bowl with the tomatoes and onion.
6. Chop the fresh cilantro and mix it into the bowl.
7. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture.
8. Season with salt to taste, mixing the ingredients gently.
9. If using, dice the avocado and fold it in carefully to avoid mashing.
10. Let the Pico de Gallo sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have jalapeños, you can substitute with serrano peppers for more heat or bell peppers for a milder flavor. Additionally, red onion can be used instead of white for a sweeter taste.
Serving and Pairings
Pico de Gallo pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or can be served over rice as a refreshing salad. It’s a versatile condiment that elevates any dish!
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Pico de Gallo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can mix it into cooked dishes. It’s not recommended to freeze due to the texture of the ingredients.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds essential flavor.
– Avoid over-mixing to prevent mushiness.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Be cautious with salt; you can always add more later.
– Allow the salsa to sit before serving for better flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
– Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of jalapeño.
– For a sweeter taste, add a pinch of sugar if desired.
– Serve chilled for a refreshing dish.
– Experiment with adding spices like cumin or garlic for a twist.
FAQs
What is Pico de Gallo?
Pico de Gallo is a fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. It’s a staple in Mexican cuisine and enhances many dishes.
Can I make Pico de Gallo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pico de Gallo a few hours in advance. However, it’s best served fresh, as the vegetables can become soggy over time.
How spicy is Pico de Gallo?
The spiciness of Pico de Gallo depends on the amount and type of peppers used. You can adjust the heat by using milder peppers or omitting them altogether.
Can I add fruit to Pico de Gallo?
Absolutely! Many enjoy adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. Just balance the flavors with lime juice and salt.
Is Pico de Gallo healthy?
Yes, Pico de Gallo is low in calories and packed with vitamins from the fresh vegetables. It’s a great addition to a healthy diet.
Conclusion
Pico de Gallo is a vibrant and easy-to-make salsa that brings freshness to any meal. With its colorful ingredients and zesty flavor, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy this classic recipe and make it your own with variations to suit your taste!
Pico de Gallo Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes diced
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers seeded and minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 avocado diced
Instructions
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- Dice the tomatoes and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the onion and add it to the tomatoes.
- Seed and mince the jalapeño peppers.
- Add the jalapeños to the bowl with the tomatoes and onion.
- Chop the fresh cilantro and mix it into the bowl.
- Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture.
- Season with salt to taste.
- If using, fold in diced avocado carefully.
- Let the Pico de Gallo sit for 10 minutes before serving.