Spicy Pico de Gallo
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
40 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
46 kcal
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Course
Snacks
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Cuisine
Mexican-American Fusion
Spicy Pico de Gallo
Description
Spicy Pico de Gallo combines diced ripe tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and jalapeños with seeds removed for heat control. Lime juice and fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add brightness. An optional pinch of cumin can provide a subtle earthiness to the salsa. The tomatoes are salted and drained to remove excess moisture, improving texture and preventing a soupy pico.
The diced ingredients retain their natural crunch and freshness, and the lime juice introduces acidity that brightens the flavors. The jalapeño adds a moderate heat element without overwhelming the balance. The salsa rests refrigerated for a few hours allowing flavors to meld.
This salsa works as a topping for tacos, chips, grilled meats, or any dish that benefits from a fresh, lively accompaniment. It pairs well with many Mexican and Tex-Mex preparations, providing a crisp texture and a balance of spicy, tangy, and herbal notes.
The drained tomato juice can be saved and used in soups or chili for added flavor and to reduce waste.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds tomatoes diced (equals bout 3 cups; use any medium to large size tomato you’d like!, ripe
- 1 medium-sized red onion finely diced
- 2 jalapeños finely diced (remove the seeds and pith)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice fresh-squeezed
- 1 tablespoon cilantro or parsley
- 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Sprinkle the diced tomatoes with a few dashes of salt and put them in a strainer. Let sit for 20 to 30 minutes to let the excess moisture drain away from the tomatoes*. Don’t skip this step or you’ll get soupy pico!
- Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix well to combine.
- Taste and season with additional salt, if necessary.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 hours before diving in to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- After salting, drain the diced tomatoes to avoid watery salsa; save the drippings for use in chili or soups.
- Customize heat intensity by using different peppers; bell peppers for mild or poblano for moderate heat.
- Ingredients rest refrigerated for 2-3 hours to allow flavors to blend properly before serving.
- Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient brands and quantities.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 46 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 46kcal | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1g | 1% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2g | 1% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.1g | 1% |
| Sodium | 11mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 474mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 1508IU | 30% |
| Vitamin C | 35mg | 39% |
| Calcium | 29mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.