Pico de gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a fresh salsa made from chopped tomato, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and chili peppers. It’s quick and easy to prepare, full of bright, bold Mexican flavors, and an ideal topping for tacos, chips, fish, chicken, and more. However, like many fresh salsas and sauces containing raw ingredients, pico de gallo only keeps for 2-3 days in the refrigerator before it starts to lose its freshness and texture.
Can you freeze pico de gallo?
Freezing is one of the most effective ways to preserve many foods for longer term storage. Unfortunately, authentic pico de gallo does not freeze well. The texture of the fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice deteriorates significantly when frozen and thawed. The result is a watery, mushy mess without the desired crunch and vibrant flavor.
However, it is possible to freeze a modified version of pico de gallo, provided a few adjustments are made:
- Drain excess liquid from the tomatoes and blot with paper towels before freezing to remove excess moisture.
- Omit fresh lime juice, instead adding it after thawing the salsa.
- Leave out the cilantro, adding it after thawing.
- Freeze in a single layer on a sheet pan before transferring to airtight containers.
- Add a little cornstarch to help maintain the texture.
While not exactly like fresh pico de gallo, this modified frozen version retains more texture and flavor than freezing the raw ingredients straight. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Can you can or jar pico de gallo?
Canning and jarring requires high heat to create a vacuum seal, which would damage the fresh quality of pico de gallo. However, it is possible to store pico de gallo in jars and refrigerate it:
- Make sure all vegetables and containers are clean and dry.
- Store in sterile glass jars or containers with tight fitting lids.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salsa before sealing to prevent discoloration.
- Refrigerate for up to one week.
The acidity from the lime juice and tomatoes creates an environment that is not favorable to harmful bacteria growth. This allows the pico de gallo to keep for a week when properly stored.
What’s the best way to make pico de gallo last longer?
Here are some tips for extending the shelf life of fresh pico de gallo:
- Use ripe, fresh ingredients and prep them just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing to prevent air exposure.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor and acidity.
- Add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
- Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality and flavor.
Can you preserve pico de gallo with vinegar?
Adding a bit of vinegar to pico de gallo can help extend its shelf life. The acetic acid in vinegars creates an acidic environment that makes it difficult for microbes to grow. White distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar are common choices.
To use vinegar:
- Use a ratio of 2 tablespoons vinegar to every 1 cup of pico de gallo.
- Stir the vinegar in gently just before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container, and press plastic wrap onto the surface.
- Refrigerate and use within 4-5 days for best quality.
The vinegar will add a tart, briny flavor. Adjust amounts as needed based on personal taste preferences.
What are some pico de gallo storage dos and don’ts?
Do:
- Use fresh, ripe ingredients.
- Prep all vegetables just before mixing and serving.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice.
- Store in airtight, non-reactive containers.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.
- Refrigerate leftover pico de gallo.
Don’t:
- Let fresh chopped ingredients sit before mixing.
- Use old lime juice or tomatoes.
- Store at room temperature more than 2 hours.
- Freeze pico de gallo without modifications.
- Heat or can pico de gallo.
Conclusion
While authentic pico de gallo can’t be preserved long-term, refrigeration and a few simple tricks can extend its shelf life. Store in airtight containers in the fridge, press plastic wrap on top, use fresh ingredients, and acidic ingredients like lime and vinegar. With proper storage, pico de gallo can keep its fresh flavor for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze a modified version without certain fresh ingredients added until after thawing. With a few adjustments, you can enjoy fresh, homemade pico de gallo even when tomatoes are out of season.