Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Pico de Gallo is a celebration of simplicity and taste. Crisp tomatoes, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro come together in a colorful medley that’s as refreshing as it is versatile. With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a bright, chunky salsa that’s perfect for dipping, topping, or snacking straight from the bowl.
Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—juicy tomatoes, crunchy onions, and a hint of heat from jalapeños. The tangy lime juice ties it all together, creating a balance that’s both lively and satisfying. Whether paired with chips, tacos, or grilled fish, this Pico de Gallo is a quick, effortless way to elevate any meal with a burst of fresh flavor.
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (about 3 to 4 small tomatoes; use ripe, juicy varieties like Roma or vine-ripened for best flavor)
- ¾ cup diced white onion (or substitute with red onion for a slightly sweeter taste)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (stems included for extra flavor; omit if you dislike cilantro)
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes; bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (or substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder if fresh isn’t available)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, stemmed and diced (remove seeds for less heat, or use a serrano pepper for extra spice)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste (adjust based on your preference)
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño.
- Sprinkle in the ½ teaspoon sea salt and stir everything together until well mixed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve as a fresh dip with tortilla chips, or use as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or salads.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Pico De Gallo
Pico de Gallo is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a dip with crispy tortilla chips, or spoon it over grilled chicken, fish, or tacos for a fresh burst of flavor. It’s also a fantastic topping for nachos, burrito bowls, or even scrambled eggs. Pro tip: Add a dollop to your morning avocado toast for a zesty kick!
Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips
Store your Pico de Gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and deepen over time, making it even more delicious! Avoid freezing, as the tomatoes will lose their texture. Give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
Spice It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize your Pico de Gallo to suit your taste! Swap the jalapeño for a serrano pepper for extra heat, or add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. You can also mix in diced avocado for a creamy version. Experiment and make it your own!
Quick Prep: Time-Saving Tips
To save time, use a food processor to dice the tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño quickly. Just pulse a few times to avoid over-processing. Pre-minced garlic and bottled lime juice can also speed things up, though fresh is always best for maximum flavor!
Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance
All you need is a sharp knife, cutting board, and a medium mixing bowl. A citrus juicer can make squeezing lime juice easier, and a garlic press is handy for mincing garlic. Keep it simple—this recipe is all about fresh, minimal prep!
Pico De Gallo
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes 3 to 4 small tomatoes
- 3/4 cup diced white onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper stemmed and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, stir together the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, and salt. Season to taste. Chill until ready to use.
- Serve as a dip with tortilla chips, or see additional serving suggestions in the post above.