Pickle de Gallo

Are you a fan of fresh, crunchy, and zesty snacks? Then you’ll love pickle de gallo! It’s a fun twist on the classic pico de gallo, but with a bold, tangy flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
This simple and flavorful dish takes all the best parts of pico de gallo, like juicy tomatoes, crunchy onions, and zesty cilantro, and adds a pop of flavor with pickles. It’s the perfect side dish or topping for tacos, burgers, and even grilled chicken!
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just want a quick snack to pair with chips, pickle de Gallo will steal the show. It’s bright, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make – you’ll have a bowl ready in no time, and you might even want to eat it straight from the spoon!
As we enter the warmer months, this recipe is a great way to make the most of those garden-fresh veggies. It’s perfect for a picnic or even as a topping for your favorite summer sandwiches. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this irresistible pickle de gallo!
Why You’ll Love It
If you love pickles, you’ll be hooked on this recipe!
Pickle de gallo brings together the crunchy goodness of pickles with the freshness of tomatoes and onions, giving you a combo that’s both tangy and savory.
It’s a versatile dish that works great as a side, topping, or even as a quick snack. The crunchy texture of the pickles mixed with the juiciness of the tomatoes adds a refreshing bite, while the cilantro and lime juice bring in a burst of brightness.
This recipe is not only delicious but also super customizable. If you like things spicy, you can throw in some jalapeños, or if you prefer it milder, just leave them out.
It’s also quick to prepare, and the best part? You can make it ahead of time and let all the flavors meld together for an even tastier treat.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own pickle de gallo:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups of diced pickles (dill or bread-and-butter pickles work great)
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
Optional for a Little Extra Kick:
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
To Serve (optional):
- Tortilla chips or crispy bread slices for dipping
Kitchen Tools Needed
Before you get started, here’s a quick rundown of the tools you’ll need to make this delicious pickle de gallo:
- Sharp knife for dicing the tomatoes, pickles, onion, and jalapeños.
- Cutting board to safely chop everything up.
- Mixing bowl to toss all the ingredients together.
- Citrus juicer (optional) to easily squeeze the lime juice.
- Spoon or spatula for mixing all the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons to get the right amount of lime juice and other spices (if using).
Instructions
Making pickle de gallo is as simple as it gets! Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the Veggies: Start by dicing your pickles, tomatoes, and red onion. Make sure they’re in small, bite-sized pieces so that everything mixes nicely.
- Chop the Cilantro: Finely chop the cilantro. If you’re adding jalapeños, carefully chop them up, too. Be sure to remove the seeds if you want less heat.
- Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced pickles, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeños (if using).
- Add Lime Juice: Squeeze in the lime juice for that fresh, zesty flavor. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your pickle de gallo, and if you want more spice, add a little extra jalapeño or lime juice.
- Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, let your pickle de gallo chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend. But if you can’t wait, it’s perfectly delicious right away too!
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your pickle de gallo with tortilla chips, on tacos, or as a topping for burgers or grilled chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
More Recipes >>>>>> Easy Fried Pickle Dip Recipe

Tips and Tricks for Success
- Pickle Type: The type of pickle you use can change the flavor. Dill pickles give a sharp, tangy taste, while bread-and-butter pickles add a sweet and sour kick. Experiment to find your favorite!
- Chop Everything Small: The key to a perfect pickle de gallo is chopping everything into small, uniform pieces. This way, every bite has a good mix of flavors and textures.
- Don’t Overdo It on the Lime Juice: A little lime goes a long way. Start with one tablespoon and taste it before adding more. You can always add more if you like extra zest!
- Make It Spicy: If you love heat, don’t be afraid to add more jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also throw in some chili powder for a smoky twist.
- Let It Rest: If you have the time, let your pickle de gallo rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. This will allow all the flavors to really meld together.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, ripe tomatoes and crunchy, cold pickles will make your pickle de gallo taste that much better. Fresh cilantro is also key for that aromatic, herbaceous flavor.
This pickle de gallo is sure to be a hit at any gathering, and it’s a great way to enjoy some bold flavors with minimal effort!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Pickle de gallo is super versatile, and you can easily swap out or add ingredients to fit your preferences. Here are some great substitutions and variations to try:
- Pickles: If you’re not a fan of pickles or want to try something different, you can substitute with chopped olives or even sour kraut for a tangy crunch.
- Tomatoes: If you want a slightly different flavor, try using cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes. They’ll add a burst of sweetness.
- Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro (or if you’re in an area where it’s hard to find), you can swap it for parsley or basil. Both will add a fresh, green note.
- Jalapeños: For a milder version, skip the jalapeños or use bell peppers for crunch and color without the heat.
- Lime Juice: If you’re out of lime, you can use lemon juice as a substitute. It will still give you that citrusy zing.
- Spices: Add a little cumin or chili powder for a smoky twist. Or, experiment with a pinch of paprika for a subtle, earthy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pickle de gallo is super flexible and can be served in many ways! Here are some ideas for how to enjoy it:
- With Tortilla Chips: The classic choice! Serve your pickle de gallo with crispy tortilla chips for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
- As a Taco Topping: Add a spoonful of pickle de gallo on top of your tacos for a tangy kick. It pairs well with all kinds of fillings, from grilled chicken to beef or veggie tacos.
- On Grilled Meats: Spoon some pickle de gallo over grilled chicken, pork, or burgers for extra flavor.
- With Sandwiches: Use it as a topping for sandwiches or wraps to give your lunch a fresh, crunchy upgrade.
- In a Salad: Toss some pickle de gallo into a salad for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
- As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside BBQ dishes, grilled fish, or anything that needs a fresh, tangy side.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This pickle de gallo is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep well for a few days in the fridge.
- Storage: Store any leftover pickle de gallo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s a great make-ahead dish for meal prep or parties.
- Reheating: There’s no need to heat pickle de gallo, as it’s best served cold. Just take it out of the fridge before serving to let it come to room temperature for a bit, if desired.
- Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing pickle de gallo, as the pickles and tomatoes can get soggy once thawed.
FAQ
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes! Sweet pickles will give your pickle de gallo a slightly sweeter flavor. It’s a great variation if you enjoy a bit of sweetness in your dish.
Is this recipe spicy?
It can be! The jalapeños add heat, but if you don’t like spice, you can skip them or use mild peppers like bell peppers. Adjust the heat to your preference!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Pickle de gallo tastes even better when it sits in the fridge for a little while. Let it chill for 15-30 minutes for the flavors to blend.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Definitely! You can add chopped cucumbers for an extra crunch or even roasted corn for a sweet bite. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients!
What do I serve with pickle de gallo?
It pairs wonderfully with chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for sandwiches. It’s a versatile dish that goes with many different meals!
Enjoy making your pickle de gallo, and don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors and textures!
Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!
Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Pickle de Gallo
Equipment
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing Bowl
- Citrus Juicer
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups of diced pickles dill or bread-and-butter pickles work great
- 2 medium tomatoes diced
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed for the best flavor
Optional for a Little Extra Kick:
- 1 small jalapeño finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
To Serve (optional):
- Tortilla chips or crispy bread slices for dipping
Instructions
Prepare the Veggies:
- Start by dicing your pickles, tomatoes, and red onion. Make sure they’re in small, bite-sized pieces so that everything mixes together nicely.
Chop the Cilantro:
- Finely chop the cilantro. If you’re adding jalapeños, carefully chop them up, too. Be sure to remove the seeds if you want less heat.
Combine Everything:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced pickles, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeños (if using).
Add Lime Juice:
- Squeeze in the lime juice for that fresh, zesty flavor. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste your pickle de gallo, and if you want more spice, add a little extra jalapeño or lime juice.
Chill (Optional):
- For the best flavor, let your pickle de gallo chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together. But if you can’t wait, it’s perfectly delicious right away too!
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your pickle de gallo with tortilla chips, on tacos, or as a topping for burgers or grilled chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 35-50 calories
- Fat: 1-2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 7-9 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugar: 4-5 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.