Pico de Gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a fresh and vibrant Mexican salsa that is easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to many dishes. It typically consists of chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt. Here’s a simple recipe for making Pico de Gallo:
Ingredients:
- 4 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Juice of 1-2 limes
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the tomatoes, finely chop the onion, cilantro, and jalapeños. If you like a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, jalapeños, and minced garlic (if using).
- Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of 1-2 limes over the mixture. Lime juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the salsa.
- Season with Salt: Season the Pico de Gallo with salt to taste. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Mix Well: Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the Pico de Gallo to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Serve Pico de Gallo as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, fish, or as a dip with tortilla chips. It’s a versatile and refreshing condiment that adds a burst of freshness to many dishes.
Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. Some variations may include adding diced avocados, mangoes, or cucumbers for extra flavor and texture. Adjust the level of spiciness by controlling the amount of jalapeños you include. Enjoy!
