Looking to add a burst of flavor to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this Fresh and Easy Pico de Gallo! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant and zesty salsa that will elevate any dish. Perfect for summer barbecues, taco nights, or simply as a refreshing snack with tortilla chips, this classic Mexican recipe is a must-try. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the tomatoes under cold water, then remove the stems and dice them into small, even pieces. Aim for a uniform size to ensure even mixing and presentation.
- Next, take the onion and peel it. Cut it in half and finely chop one half. The smaller the pieces, the better the flavor will blend into the pico de gallo.
- For the jalapeño, slice it in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder flavor. Then, mince the jalapeño into small pieces. Be cautious and wash your hands thoroughly after handling the jalapeño, as the oils can irritate your skin and eyes.
- Wash the cilantro under cold water to remove any dirt. Shake off the excess water and chop it finely. You can use the stems, as they add flavor, but avoid the thicker stems that may be tough.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix the ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
- Juice the lime by cutting it in half and squeezing it over the mixture. You can use a citrus juicer or simply squeeze it by hand. Be careful to catch any seeds that may fall into the bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt to taste. Start with a small pinch, mix well, and taste. You can always add more salt if needed, but it's easier to add than to take away.
- Once everything is mixed well, let the pico de gallo sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended for a more flavorful result.
- Serve your fresh pico de gallo with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats. Enjoy your refreshing and vibrant dish!
Tips
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, select ripe, juicy tomatoes. Look for ones that are firm but slightly soft to the touch, indicating they’re ready to eat.
- Finely Chop Ingredients: The key to a great pico de gallo is uniformity. Make sure to chop your tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño into small, even pieces for a better blend of flavors and an appealing presentation.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salsa, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. For those who love a kick, leave some seeds in for extra heat!
- Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro for the best taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with parsley, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
- Let It Rest: Allow your pico de gallo to sit for about 5 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your pico de gallo by adding diced avocado, corn, or black beans for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve Fresh: Pico de gallo is best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, but consume them within a day or two for the best quality.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 20kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
