Name: Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 10 whole plum tomatoes; 1 medium red onion; 2 jalapenos; 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 4 limes; 1 tsp kosher salt

Brimming with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this pico de gallo salad is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. It’s a simple yet delicious blend of tomatoes, red onion, jalapenos, and cilantro that brings a refreshing crunch and zesty kick.

Photos of Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, jalapenos and fresh cilantro might not be standard fare in every pantry. Jalapenos provide a spicy edge to the salad, so if you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to reduce the amount. Fresh cilantro adds a distinct, slightly citrusy flavor that dried cilantro cannot replicate.

Ingredients For Fresh Pico De Gallo Salad

plum tomatoes: These are the base of the salad, providing a robust, slightly sweet flavor.

red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy bite to the mix.

jalapenos: Offers a spicy kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

fresh cilantro leaves: Brings a refreshing, citrusy note to the salad.

limes: The zest and juice add brightness and acidity, balancing the flavors.

kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the salad.

One reader, Gelya Tolliver says:

This fresh pico de gallo salad recipe is a burst of vibrant flavors! The combination of juicy tomatoes, zesty lime, and spicy jalapenos is simply irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a refreshing and healthy addition to any meal. Highly recommend!

Gelya Tolliver

Techniques Required for Making Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad

How to zest a lime: Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outer green layer of the lime, avoiding the white pith underneath. How to juice a lime: Roll the lime on the counter to soften it, cut it in half, and use a juicer or your hands to extract the juice. How to chop tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into quarters, remove the seeds if desired, and dice them into small, even pieces. How to dice an onion: Cut the onion in half, peel it, make horizontal and vertical cuts, and then slice down to create small, even pieces. How to chop cilantro: Wash the cilantro, remove the leaves from the stems, and chop the leaves finely. How to handle jalapenos: Wear gloves to avoid irritation, cut the jalapenos in half, remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, and dice them finely.

How To Make Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad

The strong flavors from the tomatoes make this fresh pico de gallo salad invigorating as it neutralizes your palate at every bite. Try it with grilled meat!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10wholeplum tomatoes,cut in 1″ chunks
1mediumred onion,diced finely
2jalapenos,halved, seeded and finely sliced
1cupfresh cilantro leaves,chopped
4limes
1tspkosher salt

Instructions

Add the tomatoes, red onion, jalapenos and cilantro to a large bowl. Toss.
Add the zest of one lime and the juice of all four.
Add kosher salt to taste, in ¼-teaspoon increments.
Mix between each addition so you can taste for salt.
Let sit for 20 to 30 minutes if you can. Do not refrigerate, the tomatoes will become mealy

Nutrition

Calories: 41.30kcal
Fat: 0.35g
Saturated Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.12g
Carbohydrates: 10.84g
Fiber: 3.01g
Sugar: 4.47g
Protein: 1.52g
Sodium: 321.72mg
Calcium: 31.83mg
Potassium: 342.76mg
Iron: 0.65mg
Vitamin A: 55.80µg
Vitamin C: 34.77mg

Technique Tip for Preparing Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture, make sure to finely dice the plum tomatoes and red onion. This ensures that each bite of the pico de gallo has a balanced mix of ingredients. Additionally, when handling the jalapenos, consider removing the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder heat. Always use fresh cilantro leaves and roll the limes on the countertop before juicing to extract the maximum amount of juice.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pico de Gallo Salad

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop tomatoes, red onion, and jalapenos the night before and store them in airtight containers.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop cilantro and onion using a food processor to save time.

Juice limes efficiently: Roll limes on the counter before juicing to get the most juice with minimal effort.

Batch zesting: Zest all limes at once before juicing to streamline the process.

Mix in stages: Combine all ingredients in stages, tasting as you go, to ensure perfect seasoning without overmixing.

Substitute Ingredients For Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Recipe

plum tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and have a similar texture, making them a good alternative.
plum tomatoes - Substitute with Roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes have a similar firmness and less water content, which works well for pico de gallo.
red onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a milder flavor and similar crunch, suitable for fresh salads.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions are slightly sweeter but can still provide the necessary texture and flavor.
jalapenos - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile, making them a good replacement.
jalapenos - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are milder but can add a nice depth of flavor.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley has a different flavor but can provide a fresh, herbaceous note.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a unique twist with its sweet and slightly peppery flavor.
limes - Substitute with lemons: Lemons provide a similar acidity and brightness, though with a slightly different flavor.
limes - Substitute with vinegar: A splash of vinegar can mimic the acidity of lime juice in a pinch.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used, but use slightly less due to its finer grain.

Presenting Your Pico de Gallo Salad

Use a shallow, wide bowl: Choose a shallow, wide bowl to allow the vibrant colors of the plum tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro to be prominently displayed.
Finely dice ingredients: Ensure the plum tomatoes, red onion, and jalapenos are finely diced to create a uniform texture and appearance.
Layer ingredients artistically: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the plum tomatoes, red onion, and jalapenos in the bowl, creating a visually appealing pattern.
Garnish with whole cilantro leaves: Use whole cilantro leaves as a garnish on top of the salad to add a touch of elegance and freshness.
Add lime zest curls: Create thin curls of lime zest using a zester and place them delicately on top of the salad for a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma.
Serve with lime wedges: Place a few lime wedges around the edge of the bowl for an added touch of sophistication and to allow diners to add extra lime juice if desired.
Sprinkle kosher salt artistically: Lightly sprinkle kosher salt over the top of the salad in a controlled, artistic manner to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Use a chilled plate: Serve the salad on a chilled plate to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Pico de Gallo Salad

Cutting board: A sturdy surface to chop the tomatoes, red onion, and jalapenos.
Chef's knife: Essential for finely dicing the tomatoes, red onion, and jalapenos.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine all the ingredients together.
Zester: Used to zest one of the limes, adding a burst of citrus flavor.
Citrus juicer: Helps to extract the juice from the limes efficiently.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the kosher salt accurately.
Mixing spoon: For tossing and mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
Tasting spoon: To taste the pico de gallo as you adjust the salt.

Is Making Pico de Gallo Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

The fresh pico de gallo salad is highly cost-effective. With plum tomatoes, red onion, jalapenos, cilantro, and limes being relatively inexpensive, this recipe can be made for around $8-$10 for a household of four. The ingredients are not only affordable but also readily available in most grocery stores. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The fresh pico de gallo salad recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish that packs a flavorful punch. This vibrant salad is loaded with vitamin-rich ingredients like tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro, which provide a wide array of essential nutrients. The lime juice not only adds a zesty tang but also helps to enhance the bioavailability of the nutrients in the vegetables. Additionally, the recipe is low in calories and fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

To further elevate the nutritional value of this already healthy salad, consider the following suggestions:

Add some diced avocado for a boost of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber
Toss in some black beans or chickpeas for an extra dose of plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates
Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top for a crunchy texture and a dose of healthy fats and minerals
Serve the salad over a bed of nutrient-dense greens like spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins and antioxidants

By incorporating these simple additions, you can transform this delicious pico de gallo salad into an even more nourishing and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling energized and refreshed.

Editor's Opinion on This Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Recipe

This fresh pico de gallo salad recipe is a vibrant and zesty delight, perfect for any occasion. The combination of ripe plum tomatoes, crisp red onion, and spicy jalapenos creates a harmonious balance of flavors. The fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note, while the lime zest and juice provide a tangy brightness that elevates the dish. The kosher salt enhances all the ingredients, bringing out their natural flavors. Allowing the salad to sit for 20 to 30 minutes melds the flavors beautifully. Avoid refrigeration to maintain the tomatoes' texture. This recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled Corn on the Cob: Imagine the smoky sweetness of corn kernels, charred to perfection, and brushed with a hint of butter. This side dish will complement the zesty freshness of your pico de gallo salad, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Avocado and Black Bean Salad: Avocado and Black Bean Salad: Creamy avocado chunks mingling with hearty black beans, tossed in a light citrus dressing. This salad adds a rich, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the crisp, tangy notes of your pico de gallo.

Spicy Shrimp Skewers: Spicy Shrimp Skewers: Succulent shrimp marinated in a blend of chili and garlic, then grilled to a smoky finish. These skewers bring a fiery kick that will elevate the vibrant flavors of your pico de gallo salad.

Mango Salsa: Mango Salsa: Juicy mango chunks mixed with a hint of red onion and cilantro, offering a sweet and tangy contrast. This salsa will add a tropical twist to your pico de gallo salad, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavors.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with the zest of lime and the freshness of cilantro. This side dish provides a subtle, aromatic backdrop that enhances the bold, vibrant taste of your pico de gallo salad.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Pico de Gallo Salad

Guacamole: Dive into the creamy goodness of avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeno. Perfect for dipping or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.

Mango Salsa: A vibrant mix of mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. This sweet and tangy salsa pairs beautifully with grilled fish or chicken.

Cucumber Avocado Salad: Refresh your palate with cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. A cool and crisp side dish for any meal.

Black Bean Corn Salad: A hearty blend of black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and cilantro. Tossed in a lime-cumin dressing, it's a perfect side for tacos or grilled meats.

Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Top crusty baguette slices with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. A classic Italian appetizer that's always a hit.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Pico de Gallo Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Chicken Tacos: Pair your fresh pico de gallo with grilled chicken tacos. Marinate chicken breasts in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and cumin. Grill until perfectly charred and juicy. Serve on warm corn tortillas, topped with your vibrant pico de gallo, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, and a drizzle of creamy avocado sauce. The zesty freshness of the pico de gallo complements the smoky flavors of the grilled chicken, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes.

Shrimp Fajitas: Elevate your meal with shrimp fajitas. Sauté shrimp with bell peppers and onions in a sizzling hot skillet, seasoned with chili powder, paprika, and a squeeze of lime. Serve the shrimp and vegetables on a bed of warm flour tortillas, and top with your fresh pico de gallo. The crisp, tangy pico de gallo adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy, succulent shrimp, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a molten chocolate center that oozes out as you cut into a warm, rich cake. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave a deep, intense chocolate experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness, and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience.

Lemon Meringue Pie: A zesty lemon filling topped with a cloud of fluffy meringue makes this dessert a refreshing end to any meal. The tartness of the lemon is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it chilled for a cool, refreshing treat, and add a few slices of candied lemon peel on top for an extra burst of citrus. The crisp crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite, making it a textural delight.

Why trust this Fresh Pico de Gallo Salad Recipe:

This fresh pico de gallo salad recipe is a must-try for its vibrant flavors and simplicity. Using plum tomatoes, red onion, and jalapenos ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. The addition of fresh cilantro leaves and lime juice adds a refreshing zest. Seasoned with kosher salt, this recipe is easy to adjust to your taste. Letting it sit enhances the flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

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FAQ:

How spicy is this pico de gallo?

The spice level can vary depending on the jalapenos. If you want it milder, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping them. If you like it spicier, leave some or all of the seeds in.

Can I use a different type of tomato?

Absolutely! While plum tomatoes are great because they are less watery, you can use any ripe tomatoes you have on hand. Just be sure to remove the seeds if they are particularly juicy.

How long does pico de gallo last?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the tomatoes might get a bit mealy and the flavors will meld together more over time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Avoid refrigerating it for too long to keep the tomatoes from becoming mealy.

What can I serve with pico de gallo?

Pico de gallo is super versatile! You can serve it with tortilla chips, on tacos, with grilled meats, or even as a topping for salads and scrambled eggs. It's a fresh and flavorful addition to many dishes.