Calling all salsa lovers! Ever find yourself craving that delightful mild salsa you enjoy with tortilla chips at Chipotle Mexican Grill? We do. So we've created Chipotle Mild Salsa Recipe for Easy Pico de Gallo. It mirrors Chipotle's fresh tomato salsa, widely known as pico de gallo. This isn't just another plastic tub of watery pico de gallo from the grocery store; it's a trip to the local Tex-Mex cantina, without starting the car!
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WHAT'S SO GOOD ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
There are plenty of reasons to rave about this recipe:
- Simplicity: Made with straightforward ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
- Versatility: Perfect as a dip, a topping, or an ingredient in other delicious recipes.
- Authenticity: It's reminiscent of Chipotle's beloved mild salsa, bringing that fresh flavor right into your kitchen.
- Beyond its fresh flavor: What sets this pico de gallo apart is the perfect balance between ripe tomatoes and red onion, with a hint of smoky flavor thanks to our optional not-so-secret ingredient: chipotle peppers! It’s a smoky chipotle salsa, toned down to a milder version which means you get great flavor without too much liquid or excessive heat.
MARY'S TWO CENTS
Absolutely! With simple ingredients like fresh tomatoes, red onion, and fresh lime juice, you can make great mild tomato salsa without breaking the bank. And when you compare it to store-bought varieties, making your own salsa ensures the best flavor without the premium price. This delicious Chipotle mild salsa copycat recipe slides easily into our cheap category. Next spring, if you plant a "salsa garden" it can be practically free!
INGREDIENTS
For the full recipe with quantities, see the recipe card at the end of this post.
INGREDIENT NOTES
- Roma tomatoes: Chosen for their less watery nature. Ripe tomatoes are essential for the best pico de gallo.
- Red onion vs. white onion: Red onion offers a milder, sweeter touch than its white counterpart.
- Fresh lime juice vs. lemon juice: Lime juice is traditional, but in a pinch, lemon juice can work too.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Missing an ingredient? No worries! You can use white onion instead of red, or try lemon juice if you're out of limes. If you're aiming for a spicier salsa, swap in a fresh jalapeño.
VARIATIONS
For those craving a spicier salsa, introduce a bit of adobo sauce or a smoky chipotle for that extra kick. Or maybe you've tried Chipotle's corn salsa? Throw in some roasted corn kernels for a delicious twist.
RELATED
Need more Tex-Mex recipes? Here are a few of our favorites!
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT
A good food processor can save you time, especially if you're making a larger batch. But for this recipe, a sharp knife and a mixing bowl will do the trick.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 1: Chop and finely dice all the vegetables and squeeze the lime.
STEP 2: Place the vegetables in a bowl and pour on the lime juice. Stir. Taste and add salt as needed.
RECIPE FAQ'S
In an airtight container, it'll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Give the salsa a quick pulse in the food processor.
Add in a chipotle pepper or a touch of adobo sauce!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This salsa pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, of course! But why stop there? Spoon it over burrito bowls, or use it to add fresh flavor to grilled chicken or fish. Or, enjoy it like I do, standing with the fridge door open, eating it out of the bowl with a big spoon. Truth.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Opt for ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- If your salsa produces much liquid, drain a little off to keep the consistency chunky.
- Always season with kosher salt and a dash of black pepper for that extra oomph.
If you are not of fan of tomato seeds in your pico de gallo, here is the best way to avoid them. Use Roma tomatoes and lop off the four sides lengthwise, leaving the core and most of the seeds behind. Then chop the four pieces and discard the rest.
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Food Processor for larger batch
Ingredients
- 4-5 ripe Roma tomatoes diced
- ½ small red onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- Salt to taste
- 1 jalapeno, seeds removed and finely chopped (if you like a little heat) Optional
Instructions
- Dice the Roma tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, garlic, and cilantro.
- Mix the diced vegetables in a medium bowl.
- Squeeze the lime juice and pour it over the vegetables. Stir with a spoon.
- Taste and add salt to your liking.
- Chill the pico de gallo for at least an hour, if possible.
- Serve with chips!
Nutrition
Creating delicious recipes like this homemade salsa is more than just mixing ingredients together; it's about relishing the fresh flavors and the joy of recreating a favorite from places like Chipotle Mexican Grill in your own kitchen. Next time you're craving that iconic Chipotle version, remember you've got the power to make a batch of your own salsa that's not only budget-friendly, but also bursting with great flavor without leaving home. Enjoy!
Deborah says
This was so simple, yet so delicious. I love hot salsa so this girl left the seeds in!
Mina says
I love this salsa recipe! It looks so fresh and delicious! Perfect for snacks!
Deborah says
Probably the best pico de gallo recipe ever. I made a ton of it and put it in mason jars to give to friends.
Nora says
Loved your recipe! We ate it with homemade nachos! Thank you!
Padma says
Ah! I love a good salsa and often make it at home. This chipotle twist is exciting. Have bookmarked it to try soon. Thank you for yet another lovely recipe!
Andréa Janssen says
I'm always searching for easy and delicious recipes and this pico de gallo fit both. I ate it with my nacho chicken casserole and it was a great side dish!
Natalie Perry says
This pico de gallo was super easy and quite delicious! We ate it with siete tortilla chips. Yum!
Conchetta says
Easy and delicious- I love the Chipotle flavor. 5 star