Pico De Gallo – Fresh and Flavorful Homemade Salsa

Introduction

When it comes to salsa, nothing compares to the vibrant taste of Pico De Gallo made fresh at home. Forget the store-bought jars filled with preservatives and bland flavors — homemade salsa brings a bold, zesty freshness that elevates every dish.

This recipe is for true salsa lovers who crave that chunky, rustic texture that comes from hand-chopped ingredients. With ripe tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, crunchy onions, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime juice, Pico De Gallo is perfect as a dip, taco topper, or a side dish to add a burst of flavor to any meal.

Once you try this version, you’ll never want to go back to pre-made salsa. It’s simple, affordable, and endlessly customizable — whether you like it fiery hot or mild and sweet.

Why Homemade Pico De Gallo is the Best

Homemade Pico De Gallo isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience. Here’s why making it yourself is worth it:

• Unbeatable Freshness: Every bite bursts with vibrant flavors.

• Customizable Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeños.

• Healthier Choice: No preservatives or added sugars, just clean, wholesome ingredients.

• Cost-Effective: Make a large batch for less than the price of one store-bought jar.

• Versatile Dish: Use it as a dip, garnish, or side for countless recipes.

Ingredients

Optional Additions:

• Grilled or Pan-Fried Corn:
  1 cup (from 2-3 ears).
  When pan-frying, add 3 tbsp pineapple juice and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for a sweet and smoky flavor.

• Sweet Fruits:
  Add diced pineapple, mango, or peach for a tropical twist that balances the heat.

Directions

Step 1: Chop the Ingredients

Finely dice the tomatoes, jalapeños, white onion, and red onion. Mince the garlic. Keep the pieces uniform to achieve a consistent texture in your Pico De Gallo.

Tip: For a less chunky salsa, give the mixture a quick pulse or two in a food processor.

Step 2: Combine and Season

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables and cilantro. Add lime juice, cumin, sea salt, and chili powder. Stir gently until well blended.

Note: Start with a small amount of salt and add more gradually to avoid over-seasoning.

Step 3: Optional Corn and Fruit

• Corn: Stir in grilled or pan-fried corn for extra sweetness and texture.

• Fruit: Add diced pineapple, mango, or peach for a burst of tropical flavor that complements the heat of the jalapeños.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salsa and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or salads for a refreshing and bold flavor boost.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Best Tomatoes: Firm yet juicy tomatoes work best.

2. Adjust Heat Levels: Remove seeds and membranes from jalapeños for a milder flavor.

3. Avoid Watery Salsa: Drain excess juice from tomatoes before mixing.

4. Use Fresh Lime Juice: Bottled juice won’t deliver the same tangy freshness.

5. Rest Before Serving: Allowing the salsa to chill enhances its depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pico De Gallo is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with:

• Classic tortilla chips for a snack or appetizer.

• As a topping for tacos, fajitas, or nachos.

• Garnish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

• Mixed into grain bowls with rice or quinoa.

• Added to salads for a crunchy, zesty kick.

For a complete meal, serve alongside Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs or pair with a light Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad.

Storage

Store Pico De Gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor improves over time, making it even better on the second day.

Pro Tip: Stir well before serving to redistribute the juices and seasonings.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 6-8 servings

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~35

• Carbs: 7g

• Protein: 1g

• Fat: 0g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 150mg

Final Thoughts – Pico De Gallo

This Pico De Gallo recipe is a celebration of fresh, bold flavors. Once you taste the vibrant combination of tomatoes, jalapeños, onions, cilantro, and lime, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in kitchens worldwide.

Whether you keep it classic or experiment with fun additions like grilled corn or tropical fruits, this salsa will bring life to every dish you serve.

For more exciting recipe inspiration, explore trusted guides on Delish and take your cooking to the next level. Enjoy sharing this homemade Pico De Gallo with family and friends — it’s guaranteed to impress!

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TINSUF RECIPES

Pico De Gallo – Fresh Homemade Chunky Salsa

This vibrant homemade Pico De Gallo is packed with fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, crunchy onions, and zesty lime juice. Perfect for tacos, tortilla chips, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 35

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• - 6 medium ripe tomatoes finely diced
• - 3 jalapeños finely chopped (adjust for heat level)
• - 1 medium white onion finely diced
• - ½ medium red onion finely diced
• - 1 cup fresh cilantro chopped
• - 5 garlic cloves minced
• - Juice of 3 limes with pulp optional
• - 1 tbsp cumin
• - 1 tsp sea salt adjust to taste
• - 1 tsp chili powder
• **Optional Additions:**
• - 1 cup grilled or pan-fried corn from 2-3 ears, with 3 tbsp pineapple juice + 2 tbsp olive oil if pan-frying
• - 1 cup diced fruit such as pineapple mango, or peach for a sweet twist

Equipment

• - Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• - Mixing bowl
• - Spoon for mixing

Method

 

1. **Chop Ingredients:** Dice the tomatoes, jalapeños, white onion, and red onion. Mince the garlic finely.
2. **Combine Base Mix:** Add all chopped ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Stir in the fresh cilantro.
3. **Season:** Add lime juice, cumin, sea salt, and chili powder. Gently mix until evenly combined.
4. **Optional Additions:**
5. - Stir in grilled corn for a smoky flavor.
6. - Add diced fruits like mango or pineapple for a tropical touch.
7. **Chill:** Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
8. **Serve:** Enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or salads.

Notes

- For a milder salsa, remove seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- If the mixture becomes too watery, strain excess liquid before serving.
- Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor.