By Rajlakshmi
March 16, 2026
Pico de Gallo, also known as salsa fresca, salsa bandera and salsa cruda is a kind of Mexican salsa. It can also be used as a key ingredient in tacos and fajitas because it contains less liquid. It makes for a great nacho dip too!
2 to 3 medium fresh chopped tomatoes ½ medium onion, chopped 2 serrano or 1 jalapeño pepper Lime juice, as needed ½ cup chopped cilantro Kosher salt, as needed Freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 pinch dried oregano or more to taste 1 pinch of ground cumin, or more to taste
Chop the tomatoes, chilli peppers, and onions coarsely. In a chopper chop all the ingredients. Pulse only a few times.
In a serving bowl, mix all of the ingredients. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add extra chopped tomato if the chillies make the salsa too fiery. If it's not hot enough, add a few chilli seeds or a little more crushed cumin.
Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, tostadas, quesadillas, or pinto or black beans as a side dish.
The salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Always taste fresh chilli peppers before adding them to a recipe!