Pico de Gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a fresh and vibrant Mexican condiment made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. It’s a delicious and versatile topping for tacos, grilled meats, or a dip with tortilla chips. Here’s a simple Pico de Gallo recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Juice of 1-2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers. If you like it less spicy, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeños, and minced garlic (if using).
- Add Lime Juice:
- Squeeze the juice of one or two limes over the mixture. Start with one lime and adjust to your taste preference.
- Season:
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the ingredients. Stir gently to combine.
- Chill (Optional):
- Let the Pico de Gallo sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Serve the Pico de Gallo as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, quesadillas, or as a refreshing salsa with tortilla chips.
Variations:
- Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeños.
- Add diced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Experiment with additional ingredients like diced cucumber or mango for a fruity twist.
Pico de Gallo is a versatile and easy-to-make condiment that adds a burst of freshness to many dishes. Enjoy its bright and zesty flavors!