Appetizer > Mexican > Salsa

Classic Pico de Gallo Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and finely chopped jalapeño pepper.
2. Add the chopped cilantro leaves, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

10 minutes preparation time, no cooking time required.
5. Temperature: No temperature required.
Serving size: 4-6 servings.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 25
- Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 5.6g
- Protein: 1.2g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 3.2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute the jalapeño pepper with a milder pepper like a poblano or Anaheim pepper if you prefer a less spicy pico de gallo.
- You can also substitute the cilantro with parsley if you don't like the taste of cilantro.

Variations:
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Add diced mango for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Add diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.

Tips and tricks:
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño pepper to reduce the heat level.
- Let the pico de gallo sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover pico de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Pico de gallo is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pico de gallo in a bowl or on a platter with tortilla chips on the side.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with additional cilantro leaves or lime wedges.

Pairings:
- Serve with tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.

Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with rice and beans or a side salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pico de gallo is too spicy, add more diced tomatoes to balance out the heat.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce before using.
- Keep the pico de gallo refrigerated until ready to serve.

Food history:
- Pico de gallo originated in Mexico and is a popular condiment for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes.

Flavor profiles:
- Pico de gallo is a fresh and tangy salsa with a spicy kick from the jalapeño pepper.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pico de gallo as a topping for grilled meats or as a dip for tortilla chips.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Fresh, Tangy, Spicy, Zesty, Savory