Get ready to add a burst of freshness to your fiesta with this simple and zesty authentic pico de gallo recipe!
Looking for more recipes like this authentic pico de gallo recipe? Try my Hatch Chili Recipe, Salsa Verde Sauce, and Pineapple Mango Salsa.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's a fiesta for your taste buds: With its vibrant mix of fresh tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty lime juice, this pico de gallo brings a party to every bite!
- Easy-peasy, lemon-squeezy: Forget complicated cooking techniques—this recipe is as simple as chop, mix, and chill, perfect for busy days when you need a quick flavor boost!
- Customizable to your cravings: Whether you like it spicy or mild, tangy or herby, you can tweak the ingredients to suit your mood and make it uniquely yours—because who doesn't love a little culinary creativity?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in the authentic pico de gallo recipe card.
- Tomatoes: These juicy gems add the quintessential freshness and tanginess to the pico de gallo. You can also use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter twist, or heirloom tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
- White Onion: Providing a subtle bite and a hint of sweetness, white onions complement the other ingredients perfectly. If you're sensitive to raw onion flavor, try soaking them in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the mix.
- Jalapeño: Adding a kick of heat, jalapeños bring that spicy fiesta flair to the pico de gallo. For milder palates, remove the seeds and membranes before dicing, or substitute with milder peppers like poblano or bell pepper.
- Cucumber: These crisp cucumbers offer a refreshing crunch amidst the savory and zesty flavors. If you prefer a smoother texture, peel the cucumber before dicing, or swap it out for crunchy jicama for a unique twist.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves bring a burst of herbal aroma and citrusy undertones to the salsa. If you're not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley for a similar green touch.
- Lime: The citrusy punch of lime juice ties all the flavors together, adding brightness and acidity to the pico de gallo. If you don't have fresh limes on hand, you can substitute with bottled lime juice, though fresh is always best!
- Salt and Pepper: These humble seasonings elevate the taste of the pico de gallo, enhancing each ingredient's flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, but remember, a little goes a long way!
How to Make this Recipe
Full step-by-step instructions listed below in authentic pico de gallo recipe card.
Dice the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cucumber into small, uniform pieces for a well-balanced salsa.
Chop up the cilantro finely to distribute its fresh flavor throughout the pico de gallo.
Squeeze the juice of a lime over the mixture to add that tangy zing we all love.
Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper to awaken the flavors—go easy, you can always add more later!
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl or food processor, letting the colors and aromas dance together in harmony.
If using a food processor, pulse the mixture a few times until it reaches your preferred consistency, but don't turn it into mush!
Cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes—it's worth the wait, trust us!
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving—remember, you are the boss of your salsa!
Variations
- Fruity Fiesta: Swap out some of the tomatoes for diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist that'll make your taste buds do the salsa!
- Salsa Verde Twist: Replace the tomatoes with tomatillos for a tangy, green salsa variation that's perfect for taco nights or chip dipping.
- Corny Concoction: Add a handful of fresh or grilled corn kernels to the mix for a sweet pop of summer sunshine in every bite—corn-tastic!
- Avocado Admiration: Gently fold in diced avocado just before serving for a creamy, dreamy texture that takes this pico de gallo to guacamole paradise!
- Spicy Sensation: Amp up the heat by adding diced serrano peppers or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce—caution: may cause spontaneous salsa dancing!
Wine Pairing
For a casual and light-hearted wine pairing with this recipe, a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc would be a perfect match! Its bright acidity and fruity notes complement the fresh and zesty flavors of the pico de gallo, creating a delightful combination that's perfect for any fiesta or gathering. So pour yourself a glass, take a sip, and let the flavors dance!
FAQ's
- Can I make pico de gallo ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, it's even better when made ahead to let the flavors mingle in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
- How long will pico de gallo last in the fridge? It's best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor. But let's be real, it's usually gone before then!
- Can I adjust the spiciness level? Of course! Dial it up or down by adding more or less jalapeño, or even swap it out for a milder pepper if you're not into the heat.
- Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh? While fresh is best for that burst of flavor, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well before dicing.
- What can I serve with pico de gallo besides chips? Anything and everything! It's fantastic on tacos, quesadillas, grilled meats, or even as a topping for scrambled eggs. Get creative and let your taste buds lead the way!
Tips
- Choose ripe tomatoes: The riper, the better! Look for tomatoes that are firm yet juicy for that perfect burst of flavor.
- Don't skimp on the lime: The citrusy kick of lime juice is what makes pico de gallo sing! Squeeze generously for that extra zing.
- Mind the seeds: If you're not a fan of fiery heat, remember to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before dicing—it's where the spice hides!
- Patience is a virtue: Let your pico de gallo chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Trust us, it's worth the wait for those flavors to mingle and dance!
- Taste as you go: Don't be afraid to taste-test along the way and adjust the seasoning to your liking. After all, you're the salsa maestro in your kitchen!
Looking for more recipes?
Looking for more recipes like this authentic pico de gallo recipe? Try my Hatch Chili Recipe, Salsa Verde Sauce, and Pineapple Mango Salsa.
Did You Make this Recipe?
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Recipe Card
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Authentic Pico de Gallo Recipe
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Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes diced
- ¼ white onion diced
- 1 jalapeño diced
- 1 small cucumber or ¼ large cucumber diced
- ¼ cup cilantro chopped
- 1 lime juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by dicing the tomatoes, white onion, jalapeño, and cucumber. Chop the cilantro finely.
- In a bowl or food processor, combine all the diced ingredients together.
- Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- If using a food processor, pulse the mixture a few times until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-process; you want the pico de gallo to have some texture.
- Once mixed, cover the bowl and chill the pico de gallo in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the chilled pico de gallo with tortilla chips, tacos, quesadillas, or any of your favorite Mexican dishes.
Notes
- Choose Ripe Ingredients: Opt for ripe tomatoes and a firm cucumber for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pico de gallo before chilling and adjust the seasoning as needed with more lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.
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