Looking for party appetizer ideas or low-calorie snacks that are both delicious and healthy? This pico de gallo recipe is perfect for you!

Made with fresh cherry tomatoes, a zesty tomato sauce, and vibrant ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that can be served with tortilla chips or used as a healthy salad dressing.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a nutritious snack, this pico de gallo will surely be a hit.

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely chopped white onion (about 1 small onion)
• 1 medium jalapeño or serrano pepper, ribs and seeds removed, finely chopped (decrease or omit if sensitive to spice, or add another if you love heat)
• ¼ cup lime juice
• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, more to taste
• 1 ½ pounds ripe red tomatoes (about 8 small or 4 large), chopped
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (about 1 bunch)

Preparation:

1. Use ripe red tomatoes.

Ripe tomatoes are absolutely key to making great pico de gallo. Sad pink tomatoes do not make good pico de gallo. Roma tomatoes are a good choice since they are less watery, but use the most beautiful red, ripe tomato variety available. Core your tomatoes and remove the seeds before chopping. Use every last bit of the red tomato flesh inside!

1. Chop your ingredients very finely.

Chop your tomato, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro finely and you will be rewarded with more flavor in every bite. This is worth the extra effort!

3. Let it rest

Let the onion, jalapeno, lime, and salt marinate while you chop the tomatoes and cilantro.

4. Let your Pico rest for 15 minutes before serving.

This step gives the flavors time to mingle and brings out their best. As the tomatoes and remaining ingredients rest, the salt draws the moisture out of the ingredients and condenses their flavor.

5. Serve with a slotted spoon.

Tomatoes release a good amount of moisture, so you will see some tomato juice pool at the bottom of your bowl. The easiest solution here is to serve your pico de gallo with a slotted spoon or large serving fork.

Conclusion

This fresh and flavorful pico de gallo is an excellent addition to your appetizer ideas. With cherry tomatoes providing a burst of sweetness and the perfect blend of spices, it’s an ideal party appetizer or low-calorie snack.

Serve it with tortilla chips or use it as a healthy salad dressing to enhance your meals. Enjoy this versatile and nutritious dish at your next gathering or as a delightful everyday treat.