Pico de gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a classic Mexican condiment that adds a burst of freshness and flavor to any dish. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this vibrant salsa is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, and more. In this blog post, I’ll share my favorite homemade pico de gallo recipe, along with extra tips to help you make the most out of this delicious condiment.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon red wine cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Start by preparing the ingredients. Dice the ripe tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and chop the fresh cilantro.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, freshly ground black pepper, and red wine vinegar.
- Drizzle the lime juice over the mixture to add a refreshing citrusy flavor.
- Season the pico de gallo with salt to taste, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.
- Gently toss all the ingredients until well combined, making sure the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or black pepper according to your preference.
- Let the pico de gallo sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting time will enhance the taste and aroma of the salsa.
- Once the pico de gallo has marinated, give it a final stir and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Enjoy your homemade pico de gallo with your favorite tortilla chips as a refreshing snack, or use it as a topping to elevate your tacos, burritos, nachos, grilled chicken, or fish dishes.
Extra Tips:
- Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Look for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch and have a deep red color.
- For added heat, you can include finely chopped jalapeño peppers or serrano peppers. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
- Fresh lime juice is essential for brightening up the flavors of the pico de gallo. Avoid using bottled lime juice for the best taste.
- Make a large batch of pico de gallo and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
- Get creative with your pico de gallo by adding diced avocado, mango, or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Serve your pico de gallo alongside other Mexican-inspired dishes such as guacamole, salsa verde, or refried beans for a delicious fiesta spread.
Homemade pico de gallo is a simple yet flavorful condiment that can elevate any dish with its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a delicious salsa that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a tasty snack, this homemade pico de gallo recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and let your taste buds dance with delight!
