Learn how to make pico de gallo! I’m sharing my classic pico de gallo recipe below, plus tips to give it the best flavor. If you’re new to making salsa, pico de gallo is a great place to start. It gives you a lot of bang for your buck, because even though it’s zesty and flavorful, it’s SO easy. You don’t need any special equipment—just a cutting board and a good knife—and the ingredient list is short and sweet. Try this fresh salsa once, and I think it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Pico de Gallo vs. Salsa
Pico de gallo is a type of salsa. It’s distinct from other salsas in that You might notice that many of the ingredients in my homemade salsa recipe are the same as those in this recipe. However, the homemade salsa isn’t pico de gallo because it’s pulsed in a food processor, not chopped by hand!
How to Make Pico de Gallo
I love this salsa because it’s SO easy to make! Finely chop the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño, and mix them with minced garlic, lime juice, and salt. Then, just season to taste and serve! Here are a few tips for extra pico success:
Variations
This homemade pico de gallo recipe is a fantastic template for other fresh salsas! Have fun making it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Swap the fruit. Replace the tomatoes with diced mango, pineapple, watermelon, peaches, or strawberries. Add more crunch. Toss in diced red bell pepper or fresh corn kernels. Spice it up. Mix in a pinch of coriander or ground cumin. Toss in something creamy. Avocado and black beans are both delicious. Use what you have on hand. No white onion? Use red onion or scallions instead. Short on jalapeño? Serrano peppers will also do the trick.
Let me know what variations you try!
How to Use Pico de Gallo
This simplest way to serve this salsa is as a dip. Set it out with a bowl of tortilla chips for a tasty appetizer or snack. Add guacamole and margaritas for the perfect happy hour spread! It’s also a delicious fresh topping for Mexican food. Try it on…
Enchiladas Veggie tacos Nachos Taquitos Breakfast burritos Vegan burritos Burrito bowls
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I love to add them to eggs to make migas for breakfast!
More Favorite Salsa Recipes
If you love this recipe, try one of these homemade salsas next:
Homemade Salsa Tomatillo Salsa Verde Mango Salsa Avocado Salsa Pineapple Salsa Peach Salsa Corn Salsa
Looking for more dip recipes? Find my 35 Best Dip Recipes here.
