Name: Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 large Jalapeno; 12 oz tomato juice; 1 small white onion; 2 medium tomatoes; ½ cup cilantro leaves; ½ tbsp kosher salt; ½ tbsp black pepper; ½ tbsp cumin; 2 tbsp canola oil

This homemade pico de gallo salsa recipe infuses the zesty flavors of fresh ingredients to bring a taste of Mexico to your table. Ideal for dipping, this salsa also doubles as a vibrant accompaniment to dishes like tacos and quesadillas.

Photos of Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe

A key ingredient in this recipe is jalapeno, a medium-sized chili pepper. Not too spicy, but with just enough kick, they're a staple in Mexican cuisine. Available in most supermarkets, select those that are firm and bright green for the best flavor. Another ingredient is cilantro, which is a fragrant herb that adds a fresh, distinctive taste to the salsa. If it's not already in your pantry, it is easily found in the produce section.

Ingredients for Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa

Jalapeno: This medium-sized chili pepper adds a delightful kick to your salsa. It's not overly spicy but gives just enough heat.

Tomato juice: Adds a bit of acidity and sweetness to balance out the heat from the jalapeno.

White onion: It gives a crunch and a slightly sweet flavor.

Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes form the base for this salsa, providing a burst of freshness in every bite.

Cilantro leaves: Used in generous amounts, cilantro gives the salsa its characteristic fresh, herby flavor.

Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the salsa.

Black pepper: A pinch adds a touch of warmth and depth.

Cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.

Canola oil: This mild-flavored oil lets the flavors of the other ingredients shine through.

One reader, Elspeth Pierre says:

This homemade pico de gallo salsa recipe is a game-changer! The fresh ingredients and perfect blend of flavors make it a winner. It's so easy to make and tastes incredibly authentic. I love serving it with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos. It's a must-try for any salsa lover!

Elspeth Pierre

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa

How to prepare the jalapeno: Remove the stem and seeds from the jalapeno, then chop it into small pieces before placing it in the food processor.

How to chop the onions and tomatoes: Finely chop the small white onion and medium tomatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution in the salsa.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the pico de gallo and adjust the salt, pepper, and cumin to your preference. Gradually add more of each seasoning as needed, tasting after each addition.

How to serve with tortilla chips: Arrange the homemade pico de gallo in a serving bowl and pair it with your favorite tortilla chips for a delicious snack or appetizer.

How To Make Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa

This recipe for pico de gallo is made with jalapeno, tomatoes, and various herbs. It will help you make a flavorful salsa that goes with almost everything.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1largejalapeno,stemmed, halved, and de-seeded
12oztomato juice,can
1smallwhite onion,chopped
2mediumtomatoes,cored and chopped
½cupcilantro leaves,coarsely chopped
½tbspkosher salt
½tbspblack pepper,freshly ground
½tbspcumin,ground
2tbspcanola oil

Instructions

Place the jalapeno chili peppers in a food processor with the tomato juice and pulse until almost smooth.
Transfer to a medium bowl and add the onions, tomatoes, cilantro, salt, pepper, cumin and oil, stirring to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve with tortilla chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 101.11kcal
Fat: 7.61g
Saturated Fat: 0.58g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.09g
Carbohydrates: 8.27g
Fiber: 1.85g
Sugar: 4.77g
Protein: 1.76g
Sodium: 416.34mg
Calcium: 31.47mg
Potassium: 402.04mg
Iron: 1.16mg
Vitamin A: 55.21µg
Vitamin C: 75.13mg

Technique Tip for Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa

When making your pico de gallo, it's important to finely chop your ingredients to ensure a uniform texture. This allows the flavors to meld together more effectively. Additionally, letting the salsa sit for a few hours before serving can greatly enhance the flavors as it gives the ingredients time to marinate together.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pico de Gallo Salsa

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop and blend ingredients for the salsa.

Multi-task: While the salsa is marinating, use the time to prepare other elements of your meal.

Fresh and ready: Use fresh and ripe ingredients to enhance the flavors without needing to spend extra time on seasoning.

Efficient chopping: Master the art of efficient chopping to save time during the preparation process.

Organized workspace: Keep your workspace organized and clean to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Quality ingredients: Invest in high-quality ingredients to elevate the flavors without needing to spend extra time on seasoning.

Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the time spent on post-cooking cleanup.

Taste as you go: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to avoid spending extra time fixing the flavors at the end.

Plan ahead: Plan your cooking process in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient preparation and cooking experience.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe

jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level to jalapenos but with a slightly fruitier flavor, making them a great substitute in pico de gallo.
tomato juice - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can provide a similar texture and flavor to fresh tomatoes, which is essential for the base of pico de gallo.
white onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to white onions and can add a pop of color to the pico de gallo.
tomatoes - Substitute with roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are meatier and have fewer seeds, making them a great choice for pico de gallo as they won't water down the salsa.
cilantro leaves - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro for those who do not enjoy the taste of cilantro.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in equal amounts to season the pico de gallo.
black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a similar level of heat and a hint of spiciness to the pico de gallo.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can provide a slightly citrusy and earthy flavor similar to cumin, making it a suitable substitute in pico de gallo.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a fruity and rich flavor to the pico de gallo, enhancing the overall taste of the salsa.

Presenting Your Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa

Elevate the plating: When presenting the homemade pico de gallo salsa, focus on creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement on the plate. Use clean lines and carefully place the tortilla chips to create a visually appealing display.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Utilize the natural colors of the fresh ingredients to create a visually stunning presentation. The bright red of the tomatoes, the green of the cilantro, and the white of the onions will add vibrancy to the dish.
Balance the textures: Consider the texture of the dish when plating. Arrange the tortilla chips in a way that complements the chunky texture of the salsa, creating a harmonious balance between the crispy chips and the fresh salsa.
Highlight the freshness: Emphasize the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients by arranging them in a way that showcases their natural beauty. Let the vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients speak for themselves.
Incorporate a touch of finesse: Add a final touch of finesse by drizzling a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the salsa just before serving. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Pico de Gallo Salsa

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to chop, blend, puree, and mix ingredients. It's perfect for quickly and efficiently processing the jalapeno and tomato juice for the salsa.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the processed jalapeno and tomato juice with the other ingredients to create the pico de gallo salsa.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for homemade pico de gallo salsa:

Store the pico de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you have leftovers or want to make a large batch ahead of time, you can freeze the pico de gallo for up to 3 months. To freeze, transfer the salsa to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
When ready to use the frozen pico de gallo, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. The texture of the tomatoes and onions may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer, but the flavor will still be great.
After thawing, drain any excess liquid from the pico de gallo and give it a good stir before serving. If needed, you can adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cumin to taste.
If you prefer a fresher texture, you can freeze only the tomato and jalapeno mixture and add the fresh onions and cilantro after thawing for a more vibrant and crisp pico de gallo.

How To Reheat Leftover Pico de Gallo Salsa

To reheat leftover pico de gallo salsa, start by removing it from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the flavors to meld together and become more pronounced.
If you prefer your salsa warm, you can gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the salsa, as this can cause the tomatoes to break down and become mushy.
Another option is to microwave the salsa in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. However, be aware that microwaving can sometimes cause the salsa to become watery or lose some of its fresh flavor.
If you find that your leftover salsa has become too watery, you can drain off some of the excess liquid using a fine-mesh strainer. Alternatively, you can add some fresh, diced tomatoes, onions, or cilantro to help absorb the excess moisture and restore the salsa's original texture.
To add a burst of fresh flavor to your leftover salsa, consider squeezing in some fresh lime juice or adding a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. You can also experiment with adding other fresh ingredients, such as diced avocado, mango, or pineapple, to give your salsa a new twist.
If you have a large amount of leftover salsa, consider portioning it out into smaller containers before reheating. This will allow you to reheat only what you need and help to preserve the quality of the remaining salsa.

Random Fact about Pico de Gallo Salsa

Pico de gallo is also known as salsa fresca, and it is a traditional Mexican dish. It is a versatile condiment that can be used as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip for tortilla chips. The combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro gives it a vibrant flavor that complements a wide range of dishes. Pico de gallo is a great source of vitamin C and other essential nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meals. It's also a low-calorie and low-fat option, perfect for those looking to add flavor without extra calories.

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

This homemade pico de gallo salsa recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, are affordable and readily available. The use of simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and cumin keeps the cost low. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $5-$7. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste.

Is Pico de Gallo Salsa Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pico de gallo salsa recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Tomatoes are particularly rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits. The recipe also uses jalapeno peppers, which contain capsaicin, a compound known for its potential metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, the recipe also includes some less healthy ingredients. The use of canola oil, while not as unhealthy as some other oils, is still a processed oil that may contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which could be a concern for those watching their sodium intake.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of salt used, or replace it with a low-sodium alternative like potassium salt
Use a healthier oil, such as extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats and has anti-inflammatory properties
Add more fresh vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers or cucumber, to increase the nutrient density of the salsa
Experiment with other herbs and spices, like garlic or oregano, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt

By making these adjustments, you can transform this pico de gallo salsa into a more nutritious and wholesome condiment that still packs a flavorful punch.

Editor's Opinion on This Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe

This homemade pico de gallo salsa recipe is a delightful blend of fresh and zesty flavors. The combination of jalapeno, tomatoes, and cilantro creates a vibrant and refreshing salsa that is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or topping on tacos. The use of tomato juice adds a unique twist, enhancing the overall taste. However, I would recommend adjusting the amount of jalapeno to suit individual spice preferences. Overall, this recipe offers a fantastic homemade alternative to store-bought salsa, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any Mexican-inspired dish.

Enhance Your Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a creamy and flavorful guacamole to pair with the homemade pico de gallo salsa. The rich and smooth texture of the guacamole will complement the fresh and zesty flavors of the salsa.

Quesadillas: Prepare cheesy and crispy quesadillas to serve alongside the pico de gallo salsa. The warm and gooey filling of the quesadillas will contrast with the cool and chunky salsa, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Enchiladas: Whip up a batch of savory and saucy enchiladas to enjoy with the homemade pico de gallo salsa. The tender and flavorful filling of the enchiladas will pair perfectly with the bright and tangy salsa, creating a satisfying and delicious meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Pico de Gallo Salsa

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Mango Chicken Salad: Combine juicy mangoes with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer ripe tomatoes with fresh basil and cream for a velvety smooth and comforting soup that's perfect for any time of the year.

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

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty lemon and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Sear thinly sliced beef in a hot wok with a colorful array of bell peppers and onions. Toss in a savory soy and ginger sauce for a quick and satisfying stir fry.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The velvety texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. It's a light and refreshing dessert option for any occasion.

Why trust this Homemade Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe:

This homemade pico de gallo salsa recipe is a must-try for all salsa enthusiasts. The use of fresh tomatoes and cilantro ensures a burst of vibrant flavors, while the addition of jalapeno adds a delightful kick. The careful balance of kosher salt, black pepper, and cumin guarantees a harmonious blend of seasonings. With the added touch of canola oil, this recipe promises a rich and satisfying texture. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation to elevate your snacking experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this homemade pico de gallo salsa recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any variations or serving suggestions you might have!

FAQ:

How spicy is this pico de gallo salsa?

The spiciness of the pico de gallo salsa can vary depending on the jalapeno used. If you want it milder, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno before processing.

Can I make this pico de gallo salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this pico de gallo salsa ahead of time. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

While fresh tomatoes are preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute. Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the salsa.

Can I adjust the amount of jalapeno to control the spiciness?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of jalapeno to your preference. If you prefer a milder salsa, use less jalapeno, and if you like it spicier, you can add more.

What can I serve this pico de gallo salsa with?

This pico de gallo salsa is incredibly versatile. It can be served with tortilla chips as a classic dip, or used as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or even as a topping for scrambled eggs. The possibilities are endless!