Fresh Tomato Salsa (Pico de Gallo Recipe)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
5 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
26 kcal
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Course
Appetizer, Condiments
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Cuisine
Mexican
Fresh Tomato Salsa (Pico de Gallo Recipe)
Description
Fresh Tomato Salsa or Pico de Gallo features chopped ripe tomatoes mixed with finely diced red onion, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. The addition of chopped jalapeño pepper introduces a subtle heat, balanced by the acidity of freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and black pepper. This salsa is served uncooked, preserving the fresh textures and vibrant flavors of the ingredients.
The salsa's water content is managed by removing seeds and excess pulp from the tomatoes, which helps prevent it from becoming watery and improves storage life. Chilling the salsa before serving allows the flavors to meld without sacrificing its crispness. The use of red onion offers a slightly sweeter bite compared to traditional white onion, though substitutions are possible based on preference.
This salsa pairs well with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, and can be incorporated into various Mexican-inspired dishes. It can also be adjusted in heat by increasing jalapeño or substituting with hotter peppers like serrano chiles. Fresh Pico de Gallo is best consumed within a couple of days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
- 3 tomatoes chopped, ripe
- ½ red onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 jalapeno pepper seeded and chopped, fresh
- 3 tablespoons parsley or cilantro, chopped, fresh
- lime juice juice of ½ lime
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, jalapeño pepper and parsley. Add lime juice, salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Enjoy!
Notes
- Dice tomatoes and onions finely to ensure each bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
- Remove tomato seeds and pulp to reduce excess liquid and improve salsa's shelf life.
- Chill the salsa for an hour or two before serving to enhance flavor melding.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and serve cold.
- Use a slotted spoon when serving to avoid excess liquid on dishes.
- Substitute parsley for cilantro or mix both according to preference.
- Add more jalapeños or serrano chiles to increase heat as desired.
- Red onion offers a sweeter taste but white onion can be used traditionally.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 26 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 26kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 7mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 255mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 1040IU | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 20.2mg | 22% |
| Calcium | 19mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.