Pico de Gallo (Salsa Fresca)
Salsa Bandera
The ultimate zero-fat, ultra-low-calorie condiment. A raw mix of diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice that can add massive flavor and volume to any meal without impacting your daily calorie goals.
Time
10m
Servings
6
Difficulty
easy
Budget
$
The Story
Also known as Salsa Bandera (Flag Salsa) because its ingredients match the red, white, and green of the Mexican flag. The term 'Pico de Gallo' translates to 'rooster's beak,' supposedly because it was originally eaten by pinching the small pieces between the thumb and forefinger, resembling a pecking rooster. Unlike cooked salsas (salsas guisadas), Pico de Gallo is entirely raw, relying on the quality of the tomatoes and the sharp acidity of the lime to create its punchy flavor.
✓Healthy Swaps & Tips
- • Pico de gallo is already practically perfect nutritionally. You can add diced mango or pineapple for a sweeter, fruity variation to serve with fish.
Ingredients
- 4roma tomatoesseeded and finely diced
- ½white onionfinely diced
- 1-2jalapeño or serrano pepperminced
- ½ cupfresh cilantrochopped
- 1 tbspfresh lime juice
- ½ tspsalt
Instructions
Core and seed the tomatoes. This is crucial to prevent the salsa from becoming too watery. Dice them finely.
Finely dice the white onion and mince the jalapeño. (Remove the seeds and white ribs from the jalapeño if you prefer a milder salsa).
In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
Drizzle with the lime juice and sprinkle with salt. Toss gently to combine.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld and the salt can draw out the juices of the tomatoes.
Common Questions
Why did my Pico de Gallo turn into soup?
Roma tomatoes are best because they are less watery. Furthermore, always remove the seeds and the wet pulp from the center of the tomatoes before dicing them.
Nutrition per serving
Estimated values based on standard ingredients.
Nutrition info is provided as a general guide. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
