Pico de gallo is a traditional Mexican salsa that is bursting with fresh flavors. Made from a simple combination of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime, and chili, it’s perfect as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or as a refreshing dip with chips. This vibrant and easy-to-make salsa will brighten up any dish and is a must-have for any Mexican food enthusiast.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to desired spiciness)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by thoroughly washing your tomatoes. Remove the stems and core, then finely chop them into small pieces. Transfer them to a mixing bowl.
- Peel and chop the red onion into small, uniform pieces. Add the onion to the tomatoes in the mixing bowl.
- Next, take the jalapeño peppers, slice them open, and remove the seeds to control the heat. Then finely chop the peppers and add them to the mixture.
- Chop the cilantro leaves, discarding the stems, and add them to the tomato, onion, and pepper mixture. The cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness to the salsa.
- Squeeze the juice of one lime into the bowl. The lime juice adds acidity that balances out the sweetness of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor.
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The amount of salt may vary depending on personal preference, so start with a pinch and adjust accordingly.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined. Be sure to mix everything evenly, ensuring the lime juice and seasonings are fully incorporated throughout.
- Let the pico de gallo sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting time helps the tomatoes release their natural juices, creating a delicious salsa mixture.
- Once it’s ready, serve immediately or refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Pico de gallo is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later use.