Classic Fresh Pico de Gallo (Easy Mexican Salsa)

A quick, no-cook Mexican salsa made with ripe tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime. Perfect as a dip or topping for tacos and fajitas.

Pico de gallo is a fresh, uncooked salsa that brings bright flavors to any dish. It comes together in minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

This version uses deseeded Roma tomatoes for a cleaner texture, with white onion, cilantro, and a spicy kick from serrano or jalapeño. A squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt tie everything together.

Ingredients

Servings 6

Converted amounts are rounded.

Method

  1. Prepare the tomatoes: Cut each Roma tomato in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and dice the flesh into small cubes.
  2. Finely dice the white onion and finely chop the cilantro. Remove the stem from the serrano or jalapeño, then finely chop the pepper (remove seeds for less heat, if desired).
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and chopped pepper.
  4. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and add the salt. Stir everything gently until well combined.
  5. Let the pico de gallo rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust salt or lime if needed.
  6. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, fajitas, grilled meats, or eggs. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

💡 Tips

  • For a milder salsa, use only half the pepper or remove all seeds and membranes.
  • Pico de gallo is best served the same day; leftover can be used in cooked dishes like huevos rancheros.
  • If you don't have Roma tomatoes, any firm, ripe tomato works—just remove the seeds to avoid a watery salsa.

Inspired by a recipe from Downshiftology

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