Name: Easy Pico de Gallo Salsa
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced; 1/2 medium white onion, finely diced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Why You’ll Love Easy Pico de Gallo Salsa Recipe

It uses only a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

There’s no cooking required—just chop and mix.

It’s naturally healthy, low in calories, and packed with flavor.

You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

It pairs perfectly with tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, steak, seafood, and more.

It’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

roma tomatoes, finely diced
white onion, finely chopped
fresh cilantro, chopped
jalapeño pepper, finely minced
fresh lime juice
salt

Directions

Wash and dry all fresh produce thoroughly.
Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
Finely chop the onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Mince the jalapeño pepper, removing seeds for less heat if desired, and add it to the mixture.
Chop the fresh cilantro and stir it into the bowl.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ingredients.
Season with salt to taste.
Gently stir everything together until evenly combined.
Let the salsa sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Stir once more before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings (approximately 3 cups)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Mild Version: Skip the jalapeño or remove all seeds and membranes for minimal heat.

Spicy Version: Add extra jalapeño or substitute with serrano peppers for more intensity.

Fruit Twist: Mix in diced mango, pineapple, or peaches for a sweet and spicy variation.

Extra Crunch: Add finely diced cucumber or bell peppers for added texture.

Garlic Flavor: Stir in a small amount of finely minced fresh garlic for a deeper savory note.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pico de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tomatoes will release more juice as it sits, so stir well before serving.

This salsa is meant to be enjoyed fresh and cold. Reheating is not recommended, as heat will break down the fresh ingredients and change the texture.

For best flavor, consume within 24 hours.

FAQs

What is pico de gallo?

Pico de gallo is a fresh Mexican salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. It is also known as salsa fresca.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Roma tomatoes are ideal because they are firm and contain less juice, which keeps the salsa from becoming too watery.

Can I make pico de gallo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Letting it rest enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.

How do I keep pico de gallo from becoming watery?

Use firm tomatoes, remove excess seeds and pulp, and drain off extra liquid before serving if needed.

Is pico de gallo spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on how much jalapeño you add and whether you keep the seeds.

Can I use red onion instead of white onion?

Yes, red onion can be substituted. It will give a slightly sharper and sweeter flavor.

How long does pico de gallo last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze pico de gallo?

Freezing is not recommended because the tomatoes will become mushy and watery once thawed.

What can I serve with pico de gallo?

It pairs well with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, grilled meats, fish, eggs, and rice bowls.

Is pico de gallo healthy?

Yes, it is low in calories, fat-free, and full of fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious addition to meals.

Conclusion

This Easy Pico de Gallo Salsa is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, unforgettable flavor. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have recipe for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to add freshness to your plate. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions again.