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Ingredients
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, deseeded and minced (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Pico de Gallo
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Start by dicing the tomatoes into small pieces, making sure to remove most of the seeds for a less watery salsa.
- Chop the red onion into small, even pieces. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the chopped onions in cold water for a few minutes to reduce their sharpness.
- Finely mince the jalapeños. If you like a milder salsa, remove the seeds and ribs from the peppers before chopping. For more heat, keep the seeds.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and minced jalapeños.
- Add the freshly chopped cilantro and lime juice to the bowl.
Step 3: Season and Mix
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently to combine, making sure the lime juice and seasonings coat all the ingredients.
Step 4: Let it Rest
- Let the Pico de Gallo sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or anything you like. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!
Tips for the Best Pico de Gallo
🔹 Use ripe tomatoes – The key to a flavorful Pico de Gallo is ripe, juicy tomatoes. Opt for Roma tomatoes for a firmer texture or vine-ripened tomatoes for added sweetness.
🔹 Adjust the heat – For a milder salsa, reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit the seeds. For a spicier version, add extra peppers or try a serrano pepper instead.
🔹 Let it rest – Allowing the salsa to sit for a bit gives the ingredients time to combine and develop a deeper flavor.
🔹 Add extra flavor – If you like a hint of sweetness, try adding a small diced mango or pineapple to give it a tropical twist.
🔹 Make it ahead – Pico de Gallo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though it’s best fresh!
Customizing Your Pico de Gallo
🔸 Tropical Pico de Gallo – Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet, fruity twist.
🔸 Add Avocado – For a creamier texture, add diced avocado for a richer version of the salsa.
🔸 Use Red or Yellow Bell Peppers – For a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, try adding finely chopped bell peppers instead of jalapeños.
🔸 Extra Garlic – If you love garlic, add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the mix for an aromatic boost.
Final Thoughts
Pico de Gallo is one of those dishes that is simple to make yet packed with vibrant flavors. Its versatility makes it a great addition to almost any meal, and it’s a healthy way to spice things up without any added preservatives or artificial ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this fresh salsa will bring a burst of flavor to your table.
What do you love pairing your Pico de Gallo with? Let me know your favorite dishes to enjoy it with! 🌶️🍅
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