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Pico de Gallo is a fresh tomato salsa that’s incredibly easy to make and goes with just about everything! Scoop it up with crunchy tortilla chips or spoon it over tacos, enchiladas, or Carne Asada; this zesty favorite never disappoints.
Also known as salsa fresca or salsa cruda, this easy pico de gallo comes together with just a handful of ingredients. When you combine classic pico de gallo ingredients, you get a bright, punchy salsa that adds a burst of freshness to any dish.
What Makes Pico De Gallo Work
What makes pico de gallo so special is its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients, you get bold flavor, vibrant color, and the perfect balance of acidity, heat, and crunch. It’s proof that sometimes less really is more.
Because it’s uncooked, the quality of your pico de gallo ingredients truly shines through. Juicy tomatoes, sharp onions, fiery jalapeños, and plenty of fresh lime and cilantro come together in the easiest, most refreshing way. This easy pico de gallo is crisp, light, and totally addictive, exactly what you want in a go-to salsa.
What Goes Into Pico De Gallo
You only need a few fresh basics to make the best pico de gallo right at home. This vibrant salsa is all about balance; right tomatoes, zesty lime, and just the right amount of heat.
- Ripe Tomatoes: The heart of any good pico de gallo recipe, fresh ripe tomatoes bring juicy sweetness and a beautiful red color.
- Spring Onions: Milder than regular onions, spring onions add crunch and a sharp bite without overpowering the mix.
- Jalapeños: These add the perfect amount of heat. Remove the seeds for a milder easy pico de gallo, or leave a few in if you like a kick.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime balances the flavors with a bright, tangy finish that ties it all together.
Note: Please see recipe card for a full list of ingredients with measurements.
How To Make Pico De Gallo
- Mix Everything: In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, spring onions, jalapeño, coriander, garlic, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Stir all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated in lime juice.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the pico de gallo for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled with chips, tacos, grilled meats, or your favorite Mexican dishes
Pico de gallo is the ultimate sidekick to just about any Mexican-inspired dish. Spoon it over Carne Asada Guacamole Burgers, tuck it into tacos, or use it to freshen up a serving of Chicken and Corn Enchilada Bake. That burst of acidity and crunch adds the perfect contrast to rich, savory meals.
It also shines as a dip; serve this easy pico de gallo with crispy tortilla chips or homemade nachos for an irresistible snack. Or try it alongside grilled chicken or a Steak Fajita Grilled Cheese for a bright, zesty finish. However you enjoy it, this simple pico de gallo recipe brings bold flavor to any spread.
Recipe FAQ’s
Pico de gallo is a type of salsa, but unlike blended salsas, it’s made with fresh, chopped ingredients and no cooking involved. It’s chunkier, crisper, and usually less saucy. Sometimes it’s also called salsa fresca or salsa cruda
Yes, but with a small adjustment. If you’re refrigerating for later, scoop out the tomato seeds and juice before chopping to prevent it from turning watery. This helps your pico de gallo stay fresh and vibrant longer.
The secret lies in the tomatoes! Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Roma tomatoes are a popular choice because they’re meaty and less watery.
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Pico De Gallo
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes from about 3-4 ripe tomatoes
- 1/3 cup spring onions green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped jalapeño seeds removed
- 2 fresh coriander finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic small, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch pepper
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients and well combined. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Hi Karina, I have followed this recipe, your guacamole and your chicken fajita recipes and wow! They never disappoint, full of flavour and so easy to make. It was a hit with my family. Thank you so much!!
I absolutely loved this! Made it tonight with your chicken fajita recipe. Dinner was perfect. I will never by store bought Pico de Gallo or salsa ever again. From now own I will make this. It was so fresh and flavorful. Love, love, love it!