TGI Friday’s Pico de Gallo

Vibrant, authentic Mexican flavors just like the ones you enjoy with your TGI Friday’s meal are surprisingly simple and affordable to make at home in just minutes.

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TGI Friday’s Pico de Gallo Salsa

There is a nearly limitless selection of salsas out there these days, covering a vast range of spice levels, textures, and ingredients. However, it’s hard to beat the truly authentic classics — like pico de gallo, a traditional salsa created from chopped veggies and herbs seasoned simply and served fresh.

You can find it on the menus everywhere, from your favorite hole-in-the-wall taco joint to popular chains like TGI Friday’s, where many people fall in love with the restaurant’s take on the salsa. Fortunately, those craving these flavors can enjoy them right in their home kitchen with just a few ingredients and a few minutes of prep. 

What makes TGI Friday’s Pico de Gallo so good?

Simplicity and flavor define TGI Friday’s pico. The freshness and fruitiness of the tomato are balanced by the sharpness of the white onion, which is itself moderated by the noticeable but not overwhelming heat of the jalapeno.

It’s also wonderfully versatile, equally at home on tacos, fajitas, burgers, sandwiches, or with any sort of chips or dippables you have on hand. 

What makes TGI Friday’s the Pico you must try

Just six ingredients are required for a hearty batch of Friday’s pico, all of which are relatively affordable and can be found in nearly any supermarket or grocery store. In addition, the scant time required to pull it together makes it a top choice for unexpected visitors or parties where you need an extra appetizer last minute. 

Ingredients you’ll need

Here’s the short, affordable list of items you’ll need for a tasty batch of TGI Friday’s pico.

• Jalapeno pepper
• Tomato
• Onion
• Fresh Cilantro
• Lemon juice
• Salt

Traditionally, white onions are best for salsas, though red or even yellow onions can also work. In addition, those looking for a bit more heat can swap out their jalapeno for a serrano or other, even spicier peppers.

How to make TGI Friday’s Pico de Gallo

Don’t expect any secret techniques or methods here; making pico de gallo is about as simple as it gets for home cooks.

1. Mince the pepper, dice the onions and tomato, and chop the parsley.
2. Combine the ingredients in a bowl or other container, seasoning with the salt and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly.
3. Allow the salsa to sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Home cooks in a rush can even make the process even simpler by buying pre-chopped veggies, allowing them to simply dump the ingredients into a container, season, and enjoy. 

What to serve with Pico de Gallo

There’s no more classic or ideal pairing for a fresh salsa like pico de gallo than traditional tortilla chips, either bagged or freshly made. They make perfect delivery vehicles for this flavorful condiment.

However, pico de gallo is also an excellent choice for dipping other types of chips, crackers, or veggies.

In addition, it is right at home as a topping for tacos or an ingredient for burritos, lending a fresh, spicy, vibrant boost that can balance richer or meatier accompaniments. 

How to store TGI Friday’s Pico

TGI Friday’s pico de gallo is as easy to store as it is to make. Just transfer it to a sealable, refrigerator-safe vessel and store it in the fridge.

While the salsa can improve in the short term as the flavors of the ingredients blend, it’s crucial to enjoy it within three days of making it. Otherwise, it’s possible to run into unpleasantly mushy texture, as well as potential food safety issues. 

More copycat pico de gallo recipes

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TGI Friday’s Pico de Gallo

You can make fresh pico de gallo like TGI Friday’s with this easy copycat recipe.