What is pico de gallo? Who invented it & where? Have you ever wondered about the history of our favorite Tex-Mex salsa? Learn more pico de gallo facts here.
You’re having a backyard barbeque to celebrate the end of summer. Or maybe you’re having a friends and family gathering to watch some Atlanta Falcons or Georgia football. Either way, someone has asked you to bring pico de gallo. If this is the first time you are hearing about this famous Mexican salsa, we hate to break it to you–your life has been pretty boring. Luckily, it’s about to get better. Here is everything you need to know about pico de Gallo.
What is Pico de Gallo?
Translated in Spanish, pico de gallo literally means “beak of rooster.” Some believe this is because it was originally eaten by pinching between the thumb and finger, making the shape of a rooster’s beak. Pico de gallo, however, has nothing to do with roosters, or birds in general. Pico de gallo is a salsa popular with Mexican food, like tacos, nachos, or quesadillas. Pico de gallo is a great ingredient for Hispanic dishes, because it is less liquid than other salsas, while also has the same, great flavor. Like most other salsas, pico de gallo is made with tomatoes and other bold ingredients.
Pico de Gallo Facts & History
Although much is unknown about the history of pico de gallo, we know exactly who to thank for the knowledge of salsa. Spanish-born de Bernardino Sahagun is responsible for documenting much of the Aztec culture, including popular foods of the time. This is most likely where pico de gallo was invented. Another interesting fact about pico de gallo is that it is extremely healthy. The tomatoes and peppers in the salsa are known for preventing colds and strengthening your immune system.
Pico de Gallo Recipe
There are many different pico de gallo recipes, however, most include the following ingredients:
- Diced Tomatoes
- Chopped onions
- Cilantro
- Jalapenos
- Salt
- Lime Juice
- Seasoning like chili powder
When making pico de gallo, remember to use tomatoes as your base. You will want to use four times or more the amount of tomatoes as the other ingredients. Whether you like spicy food will determine how much jalapenos and seasoning you use. For best results, add a little at a time, tasting after each addition until you reach a spiciness level that meets your taste buds.
Pico de gallo is a favorite ingredient at Atlanta’s Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants and is also a popular party and tailgate snack. This salsa goes perfect with chips like Tostitos or on your tacos for your family’s “Taco Tuesday” nights. Introduce your family, friends, or coworkers to this delicious treat and find out what you have been missing.
If you are looking for Atlanta’s best pico de gallo or Mexican cuisine, visit your local Twisted Taco restaurant location. Home to over 20 mouthwatering and flavorful taco combinations, Twisted Taco also serves handcrafted margaritas and a variety of other Tex-Mex entrees. Enjoy dinner with a sunset on one of our rooftop patios or one of our daily specials. We are always offering an unforgettable experience for your family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Visit us today!
FAQs
Translated in Spanish, pico de gallo literally means “beak of rooster.” Some believe this is because it was originally eaten by pinching between the thumb and finger, making the shape of a rooster's beak.
What are the ingredients in traditional pico de gallo? ›
Pico de gallo (a.k.a. salsa fresca) is a type of fresh salsa found in Mexican cuisine. Traditional ingredients include tomatoes, onions, serrano or jalapeno peppers, cilantro, and sometimes lime juice. Other spices and seasonings are often used.
What does pico de gallo do to your body? ›
With so many vegetables as its ingredients, it's not hard to believe pico de gallo is also full of health benefits. Armed with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, the onions and garlic in the sauce may prevent the hardening of your arteries, fight bacteria and protect against heart disease.
Is too much pico de gallo bad for you? ›
Pico de gallo shouldn't result in any adverse effects for most people, with the exception of those sensitive to FODMAPs. But because pico de gallo consists of acidic and spicy ingredients, it may induce heartburn for some people. It might even aggravate symptoms in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What do Mexicans call pico de gallo? ›
Pico de gallo (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈpiko ðe ˈɣaʝo], lit. 'rooster's beak'), also called salsa fresca ('fresh sauce'), salsa bandera ('flag sauce'), and salsa cruda ('raw sauce'), is a type of salsa commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
What is the story behind pico de gallo? ›
Pico de Gallo literally translates to beak of a rooster. Story one is that people used to eat this thick salsa with out utensils and they would simply take a pinch of the salsa with their thumb and index finger (roosters beak).
Is pico de gallo good for weight loss? ›
Pico de Gallo is a low-calorie and low-fat condiment that can help with weight management. The tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños are all low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Additionally, the capsaicin in jalapeños may boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.
What happens if you eat too much salsa? ›
Many recipes and store-bought salsas contain a high amount of salt, which can cause bloating, severe thirst, high blood pressure, and stomach ulcers.
Can you eat pico de gallo alone? ›
You can use it on top of anything—chips, fish tacos, scrambled eggs—but I often eat it as a simple summer salad, too. Because I want the tomatoes to dominate my pico, I finely mince my peppers, onions, and garlic so they aren't fighting for attention in my mouth.
Should you refrigerate pico de gallo? ›
Serve immediately, or refrigerate the pico in a sealed container for up to three days. Bear in mind that the onion aroma may get stronger after the first day in the refrigerator.
Signs that the pico de gallo has passed its prime include a sour smell, discoloration, or a slimy texture. The presence of these signs indicates that the product should be discarded. For optimal taste and safety, it is often advised to consume fresh pico de gallo within 3 days after opening.
Why is pico de gallo so good? ›
Pico de gallo shares the same basic ingredients as traditional red salsa, but the preparation methods are different. Pico de gallo always uses raw, diced ingredients. It's less wet, and it adds a wonderful chunky texture and substance to tacos and more.
What are some fun facts about Gallo Pinto? ›
Gallo Pinto is traditionally a breakfast dish but can be eaten throughout the day or as a side dish. In Costa Rica there is a local saying that goes 'mas tico que el gallo pinto'. This literally translates as 'more Costa Rican than spotted rooster' (referring to the dish).
How long does pico de gallo last? ›
For the best flavor, let the mixture marinate for 15 minutes or several hours in the refrigerator. Serve as a dip, or with a slotted spoon or large serving fork to avoid transferring too much watery tomato juice with your pico. Pico de gallo keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
