Introduction & Inspiration
This Pickle de Gallo is a tangy, refreshing, and utterly addictive twist on traditional pico de gallo! I’m a huge fan of both pickles and fresh salsas. So I decided to combine these two loves into one vibrant and flavorful condiment.
The inspiration for this recipe came from a desire to create a unique and unexpected topping for tacos, burgers, and sandwiches. I wanted something that would add a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch.
I experimented with different combinations of ingredients. Until I found the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy. This recipe is the delicious result.
This Pickle de Gallo is perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a quick and easy way to add some zing to your meals. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Especially for pickle lovers!
Nostalgic Appeal (with a Bold, New Twist)
Pico de gallo is a classic Mexican condiment that’s known for its fresh, vibrant flavors. And dill pickles are a beloved snack and sandwich topping with a long and storied history.
This Pickle de Gallo takes those familiar elements and combines them in a new and exciting way. It’s a way to enjoy classic flavors in a unique and unexpected context. It is very refreshing.
There’s something inherently satisfying about the combination of crunchy vegetables, tangy vinegar, and bold spices. It’s a flavor and texture combination that’s both familiar and innovative. It’s a perfect balance.
It’s the kind of condiment that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. It’s a conversation starter. And it’s sure to add a zesty kick to any meal.
Homemade Focus
I’m a strong advocate for homemade food, and this Pickle de Gallo is a perfect example of why. Making your own salsa allows you to control the ingredients, the flavor, and the level of heat. It’s a simple process.
Store-bought salsas often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excessive amounts of sodium. When you make it at home, you can use fresh, high-quality ingredients. And avoid any unwanted additives.
This recipe is a testament to the fact that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated. It requires just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients. Yet the flavor is far superior to anything you can buy in a store.
It’s a recipe that I encourage everyone to try, even if you’ve never made salsa before. It’s a great way to add a burst of fresh flavor to your meals. And it’s incredibly versatile.
Flavor Goal
The flavor goal of this Pickle de Gallo is to achieve a bright, tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. With a refreshing crunch from the pickles and vegetables. It will add a zing.
The dill pickles provide the primary tanginess and that signature dill pickle flavor. The red onion adds a bit of sharpness and sweetness. The jalapeño contributes a kick of heat.
The fresh dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors beautifully. The lime juice enhances the tanginess and adds a citrusy brightness. The pickle juice boosts the pickle flavor.
The garlic powder, black pepper, and salt enhance the savory flavors and create a well-rounded flavor profile. The overall effect is a salsa that’s both refreshing and addictive.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients. First, we have the dill pickles, finely diced. These are the star of the show.
I recommend using your favorite brand of dill pickles. You can use whole pickles or pickle slices, just make sure to dice them finely for the best texture.
Next, we have red onion, finely diced. This adds a bit of sharpness and sweetness to the salsa. You can substitute with white or yellow onion.
Jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat), provides a kick of heat. Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your preferred spice level.
Fresh dill, chopped (or dried dill), adds a bright, herbaceous note that’s essential to the dill pickle flavor. Fresh lime juice enhances the tanginess.
Pickle juice (from the jar) boosts the pickle flavor and adds a bit of extra acidity. Garlic powder, black pepper, and salt enhance the savory flavors.
Essential Equipment
You won’t need any fancy equipment to make this Pickle de Gallo. Just a few basic kitchen tools:
A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the pickles, red onion, jalapeño, and dill.
A medium bowl for mixing all the ingredients together.
That’s it! This recipe is incredibly simple and requires minimal equipment. It’s perfect for those who don’t have a lot of kitchen gadgets.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
Here’s the complete list of ingredients, with precise measurements:
- 1 ½ cups dill pickles, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice (from the jar)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
These are the measurements that I use. But you can always adjust.
Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. It will make a difference!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make some delicious Pickle de Gallo? Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
1. Chop & Combine:
In a medium bowl, mix together the finely diced dill pickles, finely diced red onion, finely chopped jalapeño, and chopped fresh dill (or dried dill).
2. Add the Flavor:
Stir in the fresh lime juice, pickle juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Toss well to combine all the ingredients and ensure they’re evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Chill & Marinate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
Let the Pickle de Gallo sit in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the chilled Pickle de Gallo with tortilla chips, crackers. Or use it as a topping for tacos, hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Enjoy!
Troubleshooting
Even with a simple recipe, things can sometimes happen. Here are a few potential issues and how to fix them:
Problem: The Pickle de Gallo is too watery.
Solution: Make sure you’ve diced the pickles finely and that you’ve drained any excess liquid from the chopped pickles before adding them to the bowl. You can also add a bit more chopped red onion or another vegetable to absorb some of the excess liquid.
Problem: The Pickle de Gallo is too bland.
Solution: Add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or lime juice to taste. You can also add a pinch of sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Problem: The Pickle de Gallo is too spicy.
Solution: Next time, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before chopping it. You can also add a bit more chopped red onion or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the heat.
Problem: Not enough pickle flavor.
Solution: Use more pickles and/or pickle juice.
Problem: Too salty.Solution: Use less pickle juice.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations:
Tip: For an even more intense dill pickle flavor, use dill pickle-flavored tortilla chips for serving.
Tip: If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried dill. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill as a substitute for 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.
Tip: To make this Pickle de Gallo ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variation: Add other vegetables to the Pickle de Gallo, such as diced tomatoes, corn, or bell peppers.
Variation: Use different types of pickles, such as bread and butter pickles or spicy pickles, for a different flavor profile.
Variation: Add a pinch of sugar to the Pickle de Gallo for a touch of sweetness.
Variation: For a creamier Pickle de Gallo, add a few tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Variation: Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Pickle de Gallo is incredibly versatile.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Serve it as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos.
Serve it on top of grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
Serve it as a condiment for burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches.
Serve it as part of a larger appetizer spread.
Pairing Suggestions:
This Pickle de Gallo pairs well with a variety of beverages.
A cold beer, especially a Mexican lager or a light, crisp beer.
A margarita or other tequila-based cocktail.
Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.
Iced tea or lemonade.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (about ¼ cup):
- Calories: Approximately 20-30
- Protein: Less than 1 gram
- Fat: Less than 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
This is a rough estimate. Pickles are low in calories and fat.
They’re also a good source of hydration. The other vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
This Pickle de Gallo is a relatively healthy and low-calorie condiment or snack option.
Print
Pickle de Gallo
Description
This Pickle de Gallo is a tangy, refreshing, and utterly addictive twist on traditional pico de gallo! I’m a huge fan of both pickles and fresh salsas
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dill pickles, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice (from the jar)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Ready to make some delicious Pickle de Gallo? Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
1. Chop & Combine:
In a medium bowl, mix together the finely diced dill pickles, finely diced red onion, finely chopped jalapeño, and chopped fresh dill (or dried dill).
2. Add the Flavor:
Stir in the fresh lime juice, pickle juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Toss well to combine all the ingredients and ensure they’re evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Chill & Marinate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
Let the Pickle de Gallo sit in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the chilled Pickle de Gallo with tortilla chips, crackers. Or use it as a topping for tacos, hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Enjoy!
Recipe Summary and Q&A
Let’s recap this delicious Pickle de Gallo journey! Here is a summary:
Summary: This Pickle de Gallo is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional pico de gallo, made with finely diced dill pickles, red onion, jalapeño, fresh dill, lime juice, pickle juice, and spices. It’s easy to make, refreshing, and perfect as a dip or topping for a variety of dishes.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this Pickle de Gallo ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Pickle de Gallo is even better when made ahead of time! The flavors will meld and develop even more as it sits in the refrigerator. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance.
Q: Can I freeze this Pickle de Gallo?
A: I don’t recommend freezing this Pickle de Gallo, as the texture of the pickles and vegetables may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Q: I’m allergic to onions, can I just remove them?
A: Yes you can simply omit the red onion.
Q: I do not like spicy foods, what should I do?A: Omit the jalapeños.
Q: How long will it keep?A: A couple of days in the refrigerator.