Leftover Pico De Gallo Recipe

I just whipped up the freshest pico de gallo, and let me tell you, it’s the perfect balance of zesty lime goodness and a hint of heat from the jalapeño! My kitchen smells incredible right now, thanks to that cilantro aroma, and I can’t wait to toss this on tacos or just dive in with some chips.

I enjoy taking remnants from one meal and reassembling them into a delightful new dish. And my leftover Pico de Gallo is a perfect example.

Using only the freshest ingredients, I think the flavor combination of juicy tomatoes, sharp red onion, and fragrant cilantro makes for a more-than-satisfying nutrient-dense topping that works lunch, dinner, or breakfast. And the hint of jalapeño adds a kick that is somehow balanced by zesty lime juice.

And I make no judgments if you use just plain old tortilla chips as a vehicle for all this.

Leftover Pico De Gallo Recipe Ingredients

• Diced Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C and lycopene, offering a juicy, sweet-tart base.
• Diced Red Onion: Adds a crisp texture and pungent flavor, rich in antioxidants.
• Fresh Cilantro: Herbal freshness and digestion-friendly compounds.
• Jalapeño: Provides a spicy kick and supports metabolism.
• Lime Juice: Adds zesty brightness and boosts vitamin C.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and balances bitterness.
• Garlic Powder: Offers depth and boosts the immune system.

Leftover Pico De Gallo Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

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How to Make this Leftover Pico De Gallo Recipe

1. Collect all the ingredients necessary for the recipe and set up a tidy workstation so that the process moves along smoothly and efficiently.

2. Start with a medium mixing bowl, and add the diced tomatoes. Choose tomatoes that are ripe and juicy; you want the flavor of the tomatoes to stand out. If you don’t want tomatoes as part of your meal prep, you can easily substitute them with diced bell peppers. Or, you can make the meal prep without these ingredients and just add the burrito ingredients to the tortillas.

3. Place the diced red onion into the bowl. If you prefer a less potent onion flavor, you can rinse the diced onion in cold water before adding it to the bowl.

4. Mix the freshly chopped cilantro into the mixture. Be certain to use the fresh leaves of cilantro for a flavor and aroma that will pop.

5. Incorporate the minced jalapeño. If you want a spicier pico de gallo, add the seeds; otherwise, omit them for a milder taste.

6. Add over the ingredients a tablespoon of lime juice. It is recommended to use freshly squeezed lime juice for a flavor that is both bright and tangy.

7. To taste, add salt. Start with a small amount, then adjust as needed. This will go a long way in helping balance and enhance the flavors of the ingredients.

8. Should you wish, include 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder to the mix for even more flavor. Stir thoroughly to guarantee the even distribution of the ingredients in the pico de gallo.

9. Combine all ingredients thoroughly. They should be well integrated before you take a taste and check the seasoning. You can always add salt, but don’t overdo it. A touch of lemon or vinegar will brighten up the flavors if they seem flat.

10. Let the pico de gallo sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Use as a topping, dip, or side dish. Enjoy!

Leftover Pico De Gallo Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Citrus juicer (optional)
7. Mixing spoon

FAQ

• What can I do if I find my Pico de Gallo too spicy?Consider adding more tomatoes to offset the heat from the jalapeño.
• Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?Lime juice provides a more authentic flavor, but yes, you can use lemon juice as a substitute.
• How long will leftover Pico de Gallo last in the fridge?An airtight container in the refrigerator can hold it for up to 3 days.
• Is it necessary to remove the seeds from the jalapeño?Eliminating the seeds diminishes some of the heat, but you can keep them in if you like your salsa on the zesty side.
• Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?For its flavor, you want fresh cilantro, but in a pinch, you can use dried. Use a smaller amount to start with and adjust to taste.
• Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?Of course! Typical extras are cubed avocado and a smidge of cumin for flavoring.
• What’s the best way to serve Pico de Gallo?Use it as a topping for tacos, as a dip with tortilla chips, or on grilled meats for a fresh burst of flavor.

Leftover Pico De Gallo Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Replace the diced tomatoes with cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
Use white or yellow onion instead of red onion for a milder taste.
If you would rather not have the herb flavor of cilantro, you can use parsley instead.
Replace jalapeño with serrano pepper if you want more heat, or use bell pepper if you want no heat.
Substitute lemon juice for lime juice to create a different citrus profile.

Pro Tips

1. Tomato Selection Use vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. If your tomatoes are overly juicy, remove some of the seeds and excess liquid to prevent the pico de gallo from becoming too watery.

2. Onion Variety For a milder flavor, you can substitute the red onion with sweet onions or shallots, both of which provide a more subtle taste that won’t overpower the dish.

3. Cilantro Freshness Always check the cilantro for debris and freshness. To ensure even distribution and maximum flavor, finely chop the cilantro and gently bruise it with the back of your knife before adding it to the mix.

4. Handling Spice Adjust the heat level by incorporating different peppers. For those who prefer a milder dish, consider using only half the jalapeño or replace it completely with a milder chili like Anaheim. For those who enjoy extra heat, add a dash of cayenne or a bit of crushed red pepper flakes.

5. Balancing Acidity If the lime juice seems overpowering, balance it out with a touch of sugar or a drizzle of olive oil, which can also add a hint of smoothness to the pico de gallo.