Introduction
Pico de Gallo is a classic Mexican dish that brings the essence of freshness and simplicity to your palate. This vibrant tomato salsa, bursting with ripe flavors, offers a refreshing contrast to any main course while packing an unexpected zest in each bite.
Tips for this Recipe
To elevate your Pico de Gallo: use the freshest ingredients available and adjust the heat according to your taste preference. Ensuring that tomatoes are seeded and finely diced will result in a smooth texture, while preserving their juicy flavor. The inclusion of lime adds a crucial acidic balance, enhancing all other components.
Why you will love this recipe
This Pico de Gallo is more than just a salsa; it’s an invitation to savor the pure taste of summer vegetables in their most natural state. Its versatility makes it perfect for taco night, as a side dish, or even as a zesty addition to grilled meats and fish.
Ingredients
3/4 pound tomatoes (about 2 medium), seeded and finely diced (1 1/2 cups)
1/3 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
1 small fresh jalapeño or serrano chile, finely chopped, including seeds, or more to taste
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice, or more to taste
1/2 teaspoon fine salt (or 1 teaspoon kosher salt)
Adviced equipments
– Ninja BL610 Compact Blender: for making finer salsa
– KitchenAid KPA250PSET 2-Cup Prep Food Processor: alternative for a finer texture
– Wexford Professional Culinary Grape Vine Wood Cutting Boards, Set of 4: use as cutting surface
– Ken Onion Classic Series Stainless Steel Chef’s Knife: essential for chopping ingredients
– AnchorHocking Dishwasher Safe Glass Mixing Bowl, 3-Piece Set: ideal mixing vessel
– OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Cooking Measuring Cup & Baking Spatula Set: for accurate measuring and scraping
– KitchenAid Mix-Master Retro Pink Professional 5 Qt. Dinnerware Set, White: serving bowls
– OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Balloon Whisk with Measuring Cups and Spoons: optional for mixing ingredients
– KitchenAid Professional Clean-Sweep Scraper for 2016 Series Boards: ideal for cleaning cutting boards
– OXO Good Grips Silicone Mini Pizza Spreaders with Measuring Cups and Spoons Set: utensils for serving salsa
History of the recipe
The origins of Pico de Gallo are traced back to Mexico, where it has been a beloved condiment. Traditionally made with just tomatoes, onions, cilantinate, and salt, this version brings new depths to its roots. Each ingredient is chosen for its ability to contribute to the dish’s bright colors and bold flavors—a true celebration of Mexican cuisine that has evolved over time while maintaining its core simplicity.
Fun facts about this recipe
1. Pico de Gallo, which translates to “rooster’s beak,” is a nod to the dish’s colorful appearance and how it resembles the beak of a rooster when all ingredients are combined.
2. The use of fresh jalapeño or serrano chiles can vary from mild to intense, offering customizable heat levels for each unique palate.
3. This dish is not just about flavor but also embraces the art of food presentation—a perfect accompaniment that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.