If you love bold, tangy flavors, this Gallo Pickle recipe is for you! Inspired by the fresh ingredients of Pico de Gallo but enhanced with a pickling twist, this recipe combines tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro in a deliciously zesty brine. The result is a crunchy, vibrant condiment that pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or even as a standalone snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Tangy: The pickling process intensifies the flavors, giving it a bright, mouthwatering taste.
- Versatile: Use it as a topping for tacos, nachos, burgers, or grilled meats.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a quick pickling process mean you can enjoy it in just a few hours.
- Healthy and Fresh: Made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and natural seasonings.
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a mild sweetness)
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice the tomatoes and finely chop the onion.
- Thinly slice the jalapeño (removing seeds if you prefer less heat).
- Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
2. Make the Pickling Brine
- In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, cumin, black pepper, and oregano.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
3. Combine Everything
- Place the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, garlic, and cilantro in a clean glass jar or bowl.
- Pour the warm pickling brine over the vegetables.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and stir well.
4. Let It Pickle
- Cover and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to the refrigerator and let it pickle for at least 2 hours (for best flavor, let it sit overnight).
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or fish.
- Enjoy as a fresh side dish or even a flavorful salad topper.
Variations
- Spicier Version: Add an extra jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Milder Version: Use bell peppers instead of jalapeños.
- Sweeter Twist: Add a teaspoon of honey or diced pineapple.
- Herby Flavor: Mix in fresh oregano or a bit of mint.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 2 cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Pickling Time: At least 2 hours (best overnight)
Storage and Reheating
- Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- No need to reheat—just serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
How long does Gallo Pickle last?
It stays fresh for about one week in the refrigerator.
Can I make this without vinegar?
Yes! Swap vinegar for extra lime juice for a more natural citrus pickling effect.
What’s the best way to use Gallo Pickle?
Try it on tacos, grilled meats, burgers, nachos, or even as a fresh salsa alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add cucumbers, radishes, or even carrots for extra crunch.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from jalapeños, but you can make it spicier or milder by adjusting the amount of chili peppers.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes! White vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even red wine vinegar all work well.
Do I have to cook the brine?
Warming the brine helps dissolve the salt and sugar, but you can also mix everything cold and let it sit longer.
Can I freeze Gallo Pickle?
No, freezing changes the texture of the fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Does this taste like traditional Pico de Gallo?
It’s similar, but the pickling process adds more tanginess and depth of flavor.
What can I pair with Gallo Pickle?
It pairs great with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, or even avocado toast.
Conclusion
Gallo Pickle is a fresh, zesty twist on classic Pico de Gallo, bringing together bold flavors with a tangy brine. Whether you use it as a topping, side, or dip, this easy-to-make recipe is a must-try for any food lover. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite!
Print
Fresh and Zesty Gallo Pickle Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Fresh and zesty Gallo Pickle combines tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro in a tangy pickling brine. Perfect as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or a flavorful snack. Quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a mild sweetness)
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice the tomatoes and finely chop the onion.
- Thinly slice the jalapeño (remove seeds if you prefer less heat).
- Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
2. Make the Pickling Brine
- In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, salt, sugar, cumin, black pepper, and oregano.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve.
3. Combine Everything
- Place tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, garlic, and cilantro in a clean glass jar or bowl.
- Pour the warm pickling brine over the vegetables.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and stir well.
4. Let It Pickle
- Cover and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (for best flavor, let sit overnight).
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Use as a topping for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or fish.
- Enjoy as a fresh side dish or flavorful salad topper.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Spicier Version: Add an extra jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
- Milder Version: Use bell peppers instead of jalapeños.
- Sweeter Twist: Add a teaspoon of honey or diced pineapple.
- Extra Herbs: Mix in fresh oregano or a bit of mint.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Pickling Time: 2 hours (best overnight)
- Category: Condiments, Pickles
- Method: quick pickling
- Cuisine: mexican inspired
Keywords: Gallo Pickle, pickled pico de gallo, tangy salsa, quick pickled vegetables, easy Mexican condiment
