Pico de Gallo, a fresh, uncooked condiment, is an essential component of Mexican cuisine. Known for its coarse texture, this salsa adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to any dish. Let’s dive into the traditional recipe and explore a few variations that complement a wide range of dishes from various cuisines.
Table of Contents
Traditional Pico de Gallo Recipe
At its core, Pico de Gallo is made with simple, garden-fresh ingredients. Here’s a classic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 1 medium vine-ripened tomato, chopped
- ½ medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeno or serrano pepper, finely minced
- The tops from ¼ bunch of cilantro, finely chopped
- The juice from 1 lime
Directions
- Combine all the chopped ingredients in a bowl.
- Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and stir to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Transfer to a sealable container and refrigerate for up to three days, though it’s best served within 24 hours.
Pico de Gallo is perfect for fajitas, soft tacos, grilled steaks, or any dish that could use a fresh and zesty kick.
Pineapple Pico de Gallo Recipe
For a tangy twist, try this Pineapple Pico de Gallo variation that pairs well with fish recipes and mildly seasoned chicken dishes.
Ingredients
- 15 oz can of pineapple slices, chopped
- ½ medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeno or serrano pepper, finely minced
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped cilantro
- 2 tsp lime juice
- ½ tsp kosher salt
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Refrigerate for up to three days, but it’s best served within 24 hours.
Garlic Pico de Gallo Recipe
For garlic lovers, this variation swaps out cilantro for pressed garlic and omits the lime, making it an excellent topping for grilled steaks and hot dogs.
Ingredients
- 1 medium vine-ripened tomato, chopped
- ½ medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeno or serrano pepper, finely minced
- 1 or 2 cloves of garlic, pressed (according to your taste)
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Refrigerate for up to three days, but it’s best served within 24 hours.
Conclusion
Pico de Gallo is not only a versatile condiment but also a healthy and flavorful snack when paired with crunchy corn tortilla chips. These simple and easy recipes offer a refreshing burst of flavor to a wide range of dishes, transforming even the simplest meals into a culinary experience. So, go ahead and get chopping!
