Homemade Pico de Gallo (Fresh Mexican Salsa)

by

Homemade Pico de Gallo (Fresh Mexican Salsa)

Description

Homemade Pico de Gallo, also known as Salsa Fresca, is a simple yet vibrant Mexican condiment made from fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. It’s crisp, tangy, and slightly spicy — the perfect balance to rich dishes like tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or tortilla chips. This quick recipe takes only minutes to prepare and brings authentic Mexican freshness to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, finely diced

  • ½ medium white onion, finely chopped

  • 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely minced (adjust heat to taste)

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)

  • Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon, adjust as needed)

Optional additions:

  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for extra flavor)

  • ½ avocado, diced (for a creamy variation)

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: Finely dice tomatoes, onion, and jalapeños. Chop the cilantro.

  2. Combine: In a medium bowl, add tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, and cilantro.

  3. Add lime & salt: Pour in lime juice and sprinkle salt. Mix gently but thoroughly.

  4. Rest: Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

  5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm tomatoes to prevent watery salsa. Roma tomatoes are ideal.

  • If your salsa becomes too watery, drain excess liquid before serving.

  • Fresh lime juice is key — bottled juice changes the flavor noticeably.

  • For milder salsa, use only half a jalapeño or remove all seeds.

Tips

  • Add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are overly acidic.

  • Mix in mango, pineapple, or cucumber for a fruity twist.

  • For extra zing, include a splash of apple cider vinegar.

  • Letting Pico de Gallo chill for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor depth.

Servings

Makes 4 servings (about 2 cups total). Perfect for dipping or topping tacos, fajitas, or grilled fish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 25

  • Protein: 1 g

  • Carbohydrates: 6 g

  • Fat: 0 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sodium: 120 mg

  • Vitamin C: 20% DV

(Values are approximate and may vary by ingredients used.)

Health Benefits

  • Low in calories & fat-free: Perfect for healthy snacking.

  • Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants: Boosts immunity and skin health.

  • High water content: Keeps you hydrated.

  • Natural detox: Fresh cilantro and lime aid digestion and detoxification.

Q & A

Q1: Can I make Pico de Gallo ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after resting 30 minutes. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q2: How can I make it less spicy?
Remove all seeds and membranes from jalapeños or use mild green peppers instead.

Q3: What’s the difference between Pico de Gallo and salsa?
Pico de Gallo uses fresh, chopped ingredients and is chunky, while salsa is blended and smoother.

Q4: Can I freeze Pico de Gallo?
Not recommended — freezing affects texture and freshness.

Q5: What can I serve it with?
Serve with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, tacos, nachos, or even eggs for breakfast.

Leave a Comment