Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 20 calories per serving. Recipe by Matt Santos on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 25 min
Cost: $2.46 total, $0.61 per serving
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Red Onion (small dice, milder and sweeter than white onion)
- 1 piece Jalapeño Pepper (seeded for less heat, small dice)
- 2 pieces Tomato (medium ripe tomatoes, diced; seeds optional)
- 1 piece Lime (freshly squeezed juice)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
Instructions
Dice the Red Onion
Using a very sharp knife, finely dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces.
Time: PT3M
Prepare the Jalapeño
Slice the jalapeño lengthwise, remove seeds if you prefer less heat, then dice it finely.
Time: PT2M
Dice the Tomatoes
Core the tomatoes and dice them into bite‑size cubes. If you want a less watery salsa, scoop out the seeds and excess juice.
Time: PT4M
Combine the Vegetables
Place the diced onion, jalapeño, and tomatoes into a mixing bowl.
Time: PT1M
Season the Salsa
Sprinkle the salt over the mixture, squeeze the juice of one lime, and add the chopped cilantro.
Time: PT2M
Final Mix
Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 20
- Protein
- 0.5g
- Carbohydrates
- 4g
- Fat
- 0g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Red Onion: White onion, Yellow onion
- Instead of Jalapeño Pepper: Serrano pepper, Fresno pepper
- Instead of Tomato: Roma tomatoes, Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Instead of Lime: Bottled lime juice
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro: Coriander leaves, Parsley (different flavor)
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spoon or Spatula
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Dice the red onion finely.
- Remove jalapeño seeds (optional) and dice the pepper.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly and taste for seasoning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- A very sharp knife makes clean dice and speeds up prep.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- For extra freshness, add a tiny splash of orange juice.
- Serve with tortilla chips or use as a topping for tacos, grilled fish, or salads.
Troubleshooting
Salsa is too watery.
Remove tomato seeds before dicing or drain excess liquid after mixing.
Salsa is too spicy.
Add more diced tomato or a little extra lime juice, and reduce the amount of jalapeño.
Lacks flavor.
Add a pinch more salt and an extra squeeze of lime; let it rest for a few minutes.
Storage
Refrigerator: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; freezing changes texture.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour, then refrigerate.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pico de gallo can be prepared up to 2 hours ahead; keep covered in the fridge.
- Add a splash more lime juice if it sits for a while to keep brightness.
- Stir before serving to redistribute any settled juices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Pico de Gallo in Mexican cuisine?
Pico de gallo, also called salsa fresca, is a traditional Mexican condiment dating back to the Aztec era. It was originally a simple mixture of chopped tomatoes, chilies, onions, and cilantro used to add fresh flavor to tacos and other dishes.
What are the traditional regional variations of Pico de Gallo in Mexico?
In northern Mexico, larger chunks of tomato and onion are common, while in central regions the salsa is finer and often includes more lime juice. Some coastal versions add cucumber or fruit like mango for a sweeter twist.
How is Pico de Gallo traditionally served in Mexican households and restaurants?
It is typically served as a table condiment alongside tacos, quesadillas, and grilled meats, or as a dip with tortilla chips. In many homes it is placed in a small bowl on the table for guests to add as they like.
On what occasions or celebrations is Pico de Gallo commonly enjoyed in Mexican culture?
Pico de gallo appears at everyday meals and festive gatherings such as Día de los Muertos, family barbecues, and celebrations where tacos or grilled foods are served. Its fresh flavor complements many party dishes.
How does Pico de Gallo fit into the broader Mexican cuisine tradition?
It exemplifies the Mexican emphasis on fresh, raw ingredients that add brightness and heat. Pico de gallo balances the richness of cooked dishes and is a staple across all regions of Mexico.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Pico de Gallo versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients are ripe tomatoes, white or red onion, jalapeño or serrano peppers, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Substitutes can include green onions, different chilies like Fresno, or bottled lime juice if fresh is unavailable.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Pico de Gallo?
Common errors include over‑dicing the tomatoes, which releases too much juice, using too much salt, and not removing jalapeño seeds when a milder heat is desired. Also, using a dull knife can bruise the vegetables and affect texture.
Why does this Pico de Gallo recipe use fresh lime juice instead of bottled?
Fresh lime juice provides bright acidity and aromatic oils that bottled juice lacks, giving the salsa its characteristic zing and freshness. The acidity also helps balance the heat of the jalapeño.
How do I know when my Pico de Gallo is properly balanced in flavor and texture?
The salsa should have a harmonious blend of salty, tangy, and mildly spicy notes, with a crunchy texture from the onion and pepper. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed; the vegetables should be evenly diced, not mushy.
What does the YouTube channel Matt Santos specialize in?
The YouTube channel Matt Santos focuses on quick, approachable home cooking tutorials, often highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple techniques for everyday meals.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Matt Santos?
Matt Santos emphasizes using sharp tools, minimal waste, and flavor‑first recipes that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, catering to busy home cooks who want tasty, wholesome dishes.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
