Pickle de gallo is what happens when dill pickles and salsa come together - and honestly, it's a match made in snack heaven. It's fresh, tangy, a little spicy, and ridiculously easy to stir together in minutes. Bonus? It's a healthy, plant-based condiment that adds bold flavor without weighing anything down.

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The backstory.
I've always loved adding something tangy and crunchy to balance out a meal, and dill pickles are usually my go-to. A little acidity can completely transform a dish, and pickles deliver that every time. Combining them with crisp vegetables and fresh lime created something that's balanced, vibrant, and incredibly versatile. It's now one of my favorite easy toppings - the kind that takes everyday meals and gives them a fresh, flavorful lift without any extra fuss.
xoxo Kori
It's a must-make.
If you're even slightly obsessed with pickles, this pickle de gallo needs to happen in your kitchen.
- Big, bold dill pickle flavor. Every bite is packed with tangy dill pickles, fresh veggies, and a splash of brine for that signature zip.
- Fresh and crunchy. Finely diced red bell and yellow bell pepper, onion, and jalapeno give it that classic gallo recipe texture with an extra pop.
- Healthy and plant-based. It's naturally low calorie, loaded with fresh vegetables, and made with simple ingredients you can feel good about.
- Easy to make. Stir, chill, and serve - no cooking required and ready in about 10 minutes.
If it's got a dill pickle in it, I'm in - but turn it into salsa and now we're really having fun.
Let's talk texture and flavor.
Think classic pico, but brighter and brinier. The dill pickle brings that salty, tangy punch, while crisp bell pepper and red onion add sweetness and bite. Fresh cilantro and lime juice keep everything tasting light and vibrant. After a couple of hours in the fridge, the flavors mingle and mellow into a perfectly balanced, crunchy, juicy scoop that's bold without overpowering.
What you'll need.

Here's what your going to need to make pickle de gallo.
- Kosher Dill Pickles: you can use any brand of kosher dill pickles you prefer.
- Red Bell Pepper
- Yellow Bell Pepper
- Red Onion: substitute with a sweet onion if you prefer to use a different kind of onion.
- Jalapeno: be sure to de-seed your jalapeno before adding to your salsa to control your heat level.
- Garlic: mince fresh garlic cloves or use store-bought pre-minced to save on prep time.
- Fresh Cilantro: omit if desired; however, it is delicious in this salsa!
- Pickle Juice Brine
- Lime Juice: one lime will normally yield about two tablespoons of lime juice. Roll your lime on your counter before cutting to juice to get the most out of your lime.
- Salt and Pepper: used for seasoning to taste.
If you're loving the bold, briny vibe of pickle de gallo, here are a few more recipes you'll love. Dill Pickle Hummus is creamy, tangy, and perfect for spreading on sandwiches or scooping up with fresh veggies for an easy snack. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad brings that same dill pickle flavor into a cool, satisfying side that's always a hit at cookouts and meal prep lunches. And if you're building the ultimate burger or barbecue plate, Dill Pickle Slaw adds crisp, refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with anything grilled.
Customize it your way.
This pickle pico is flexible and fun to play with, so don't be afraid to make it your own.
- Swap red bell for orange bell pepper for a slightly sweeter twist.
- Reduce or increase the amount of jalapeno as desired to taste.
- Substitute the red onion with sweet or yellow onion if preferred.
- Omit the fresh cilantro if you do not like cilantro.
- Add extra minced jalapeno for more heat if you love a spicy kick.
- Stir in a little diced cucumber for even more crunch and freshness.
- Add a spoonful of finely chopped fresh dill to lean into that dill pickle flavor.
- Mix in a small handful of diced tomatoes if you want a more traditional pico vibe.
Flexible dietary swaps.
Pickle de gallo is naturally healthy and plant-based, but if you need to tweak it for specific dietary needs, here are flexible swaps
- Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium dill pickles and pickle brine, and wait to add any extra salt until after tasting. The pickled ingredients already bring plenty of saltiness.
- Allium-Sensitive - Skip the red onion and garlic if needed. Add a squeeze of extra lime juice or a little more green onion tops for brightness.
- Mild / No-Heat - Omit the jalapeno completely for a spice-free version. You'll still get tons of fresh flavor without the heat.
How to make pickle pico.
Here are the step-by-step instructions for making this salsa:
- Add all the vegetables to a bowl.
- Add pickle juice and lime juice and the remaining ingredients. Stir.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours to blend flavors.
- Transfer to a serving dish. Adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning to taste.

How to use it.
Pickle de gallo is one of those toppings that instantly wakes up whatever it touches.
- Spoon it over grilled chicken, pork, or fish for a bright, tangy finish.
- Pile it high on burgers, brats, hot dogs, or sloppy joes for a crunchy twist.
- Add it to tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, or grain bowls for a fresh pop of flavor.
- Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips or corn chips at your next gathering.
- Scatter a little extra cilantro on top before serving for a fresh, colorful garnish.
Kori's tips.
- Dice everything into even, small pieces for the prettiest presentation and best texture.
- Don't skip the chill time - at least 2 hours helps the flavors blend and mellow.
- Taste after chilling before adding salt. The pickled brine can vary in saltiness.
- If your jalapeno is extra spicy, start small and add more as needed.
FAQ's
Store pickle de gallo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving.
Freezing is not recommended. The fresh vegetables will lose their crisp texture once thawed.
Yes, and it's actually better that way. Making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to fully develop.
Kosher-style dill pickles with a classic garlic and dill flavor work best. Avoid sweet pickles for this recipe.
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📖 The recipe.

Dill Pickle Salsa
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced kosher-style dill pickles
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup diced yellow bell pepper
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup diced green onion (green parts)
- 2 tablespoons minced jalapeno (seeds removed)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons pickle juice brine
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients into a medium sized bowl. Stir to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours for the flavors to blend. Salt and pepper to taste.
Video
Kori's Tips
VARIATIONS: Add more or less jalapeno to increase or decrease spice. Since there is a variance (potency) in taste between jalapenos, limes, and red onions adjust quantities if needed.
Nutrition
© 2025 Seeking Good Eats™
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