Pico de Gallo with Tortilla Chips
A classic Mexican 'salsa fresca' bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, crisp onion, spicy jalapeño, and zesty lime. This uncooked salsa is incredibly simple to prepare and serves as the perfect healthy, low-calorie dip for tortilla chips or a fresh topping for tacos, grilled meats, and more.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Vegetables: Core and seed the roma tomatoes, then dice them into small, uniform 1/4-inch pieces. Finely dice the white onion. For the jalapeño, remove the stem, seeds, and white membranes before mincing it finely. This controls the heat and ensures a pleasant texture.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Combine Ingredients: In a medium non-reactive bowl (glass or stainless steel), combine the diced tomatoes, onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
- 3
Season and Mix: Pour the fresh lime juice over the vegetable mixture
- a.Sprinkle with salt. Gently stir with a spoon until all the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the tomatoes mushy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Rest and Marinate: Let the pico de gallo rest at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes. This crucial step allows the salt to draw out juices from the vegetables and lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Ripe, Firm Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are ideal because they are meatier and have fewer seeds and less water content, preventing a soupy salsa.
- 2A Sharp Knife is Key: A very sharp knife will help you make clean cuts without bruising the tomatoes or onions, which preserves their fresh texture.
- 3Control the Heat: The heat comes from the seeds and white membranes (pith) of the jalapeño. For a milder pico, be sure to remove them completely. For more heat, leave some in.
- 4Fresh is Best: Use fresh lime juice, not bottled, for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- 5Avoid Reactive Metal Bowls: The acidity from the tomatoes and lime juice can react with certain metals like aluminum or copper, giving the salsa a metallic taste. Use a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel bowl.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruity
Add 1 cup of finely diced mango, pineapple, or peach for a sweet and spicy twist.
CreamyCreamy
Gently fold in 1 diced avocado just before serving to make a creamy pico-avocado salsa.
SpicierSpicier
Use a serrano pepper instead of a jalapeño for a significant increase in heat.
SmokySmoky
Add 1/4 cup of roasted corn kernels for a smoky, sweet flavor and added texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Onions and cilantro also contribute beneficial antioxidant compounds.
Immunity Boosting
High in Vitamin C from the fresh tomatoes and lime juice, this salsa can help support a healthy immune system and protect against cellular damage.
Naturally Low-Calorie & Hydrating
Composed mainly of water-rich vegetables, pico de gallo is very low in calories and can contribute to your daily hydration needs, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Supports Heart Health
The ingredients are naturally free of cholesterol and low in sodium (which you can control). The potassium from tomatoes can also help regulate blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's made entirely from fresh vegetables and is low in calories, fat-free, and packed with vitamins (especially Vitamin C from tomatoes and lime) and antioxidants.