Rustic Pico de Gallo

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Rustic Pico de Gallo is a fresh and zesty salsa that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. This simple recipe combines ripe tomatoes, crisp onions, and vibrant cilantro for a taste of sunny Mexico on your table. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a year-round favorite, this salsa is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

Ingredients for Rustic Pico de Gallo

Tomatoes are the star of the show, bringing juicy sweetness and a vibrant red color. Opt for ripe and firm tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

Onion adds a sharp, pungent kick to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes. A white onion is traditional, but feel free to use red or yellow onions if you prefer a milder taste.

Cilantro provides a fresh, herby note that is essential in Mexican cuisine. Its distinct flavor brightens up the mix beautifully.

Lime juice is the acid that ties everything together, adding tanginess and helping to preserve the freshness of the salsa.

Jalapeño is where the heat comes in. Seed it for a milder heat, or leave the seeds in if you like it spicy!

Salt and black pepper enhance and balance the flavors, making each ingredient shine.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Avoid canned or pre-diced tomatoes.
  • If you’re not a fan of cilantro, substitute with flat-leaf parsley for a different, but still fresh, flavor.
  • For a smoky twist, try adding a bit of chopped roasted red pepper.

Serving Suggestions

This Rustic Pico de Gallo is a fantastic topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled chicken. It's equally delightful on a simple bed of rice, or as a fresh dip for tortilla chips alongside a cold drink. Pair it with guacamole for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pico de Gallo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and give it a stir before serving.
How long will it keep?
It's best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Pico de Gallo?
Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the tomatoes and cilantro.

Rustic Pico de Gallo Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. First, dice the tomatoes into small, even cubes and toss them into the bowl. You want them to be small enough to scoop up with a chip, but not so small that they turn mushy.

Next, dice your onion. Try to match the size of your tomato pieces for a uniform texture throughout the salsa. Add them to the tomatoes.

Chop up the cilantro. Don’t worry too much about stems here; they add flavor and crunch. Add it to your bowl.

Squeeze in the lime juice. Make sure to roll your lime on the counter first to get the most juice out of it. Add the jalapeño next, finely minced. Remember, the finer you chop, the more evenly the heat will be distributed.

Finally, sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Gently toss everything together with a spoon until well mixed. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Adjustable heat level to suit your taste.
  • Fresh and versatile, perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip.
  • Healthy and nutrient-rich with no added sugars or preservatives.

Ingredients

2 cups diced ripe tomatoes
1 cup diced onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
2. Add the fresh lime juice, minced jalapeño, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently toss all ingredients until well mixed.
4. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

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