Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones we return to over and over. That’s exactly the case with Pico de Gallo — a raw salsa bursting with bold flavors, fresh textures, and zesty brightness. Paired with golden, crisp tortilla chips, this dish is more than a snack. It’s a celebration of freshness.
Perfect as an appetizer, a taco topping, or a light party bite, this dish requires minimal effort but always delivers maximum impact.
What is Pico de Gallo?
Pico de Gallo — also known as salsa fresca — is a traditional Mexican condiment made with chopped fresh tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, cilantro, and lime juice. Unlike blended salsas, this version keeps all ingredients raw and chunky for bold texture and vivid flavor.
It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it with nachos, grilled meat, seafood, tacos, or simply scoop it up with tortilla chips as seen here — the perfect balance of crunchy and juicy in every bite.
Recipe Overview
Serves: 3–4
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Super easy
Best for: Appetizers, Snacks, Mexican-Inspired Meals
Ingredients
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2 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced
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1/2 red onion, finely chopped
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1 green bell pepper or 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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Juice of 1 lime
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Tortilla chips, for serving
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Extra lime slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Dice the tomatoes, onion, and green pepper or jalapeño evenly so you get a balanced bite each time. If using jalapeños, remove the seeds for less heat.
2. Mix the Pico
In a mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, and peppers. Add the chopped cilantro and squeeze over the lime juice. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season
Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Mix again and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve
Spoon the Pico de Gallo over a bed of tortilla chips or serve on the side as a dip. Garnish with lime slices if desired, and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Tips for the Best Pico de Gallo
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Use ripe tomatoes for the juiciest, most flavorful results. Roma or vine tomatoes work well.
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Balance the acidity: Lime juice brightens the dish, but don’t overdo it — start with half a lime and adjust to taste.
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Let it sit: Allowing the salsa to rest before serving lets the flavors blend naturally.
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Drain if needed: If your tomatoes release too much juice, strain the mixture slightly before serving to avoid soggy chips.
Variations
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Add diced avocado for a creamier, guac-like texture.
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Include corn or black beans for a heartier version.
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Use red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a colorful twist.
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Swap the lime for lemon in a pinch — it’s not traditional but works in a hurry.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
This dish is a reminder that with the right ingredients, simplicity wins. It’s fresh, healthy, gluten-free, vegan, and naturally low in calories — making it the ultimate guilt-free snack or starter. From backyard barbecues to casual dinners, Pico de Gallo is one of those things you can always count on to deliver.