Pickle de Gallo – Isabel Eats

Pickles have always been one of my all-time favorite snacks. When I was younger, my go-to movie theater snack wasn’t popcorn or candy, but those giant pickles sold individually in a bag. Yep, I was that girl. So when pickle de gallo started popping up everywhere online, I was instantly intrigued. It totally lived up to my expectations – maybe even surpassed them!

It’s like a mix between a relish and a salsa, hitting every flavor note I’m always craving: salty, sweet, tangy, crunchy, and fresh.

It’s delicious as a snack with tortilla chips or as a topping for dishes like nachos and tacos. Trust me, if you love pickles as much as I do, you’re going to want this in your life ASAP.

What is Pickle de Gallo?

Pickle de gallo is exactly what it sounds like – a delicious cross between pickle relish and pico de gallo. It’s fresh and vibrant, made with crunchy dill pickles, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and cilantro, all tossed in a tangy dressing of lime juice and pickle brine. Basically, it’s everything you love about pickles and salsa combined in one amazing dish.

Pickle de Gallo vs. Pico de Gallo

Pickle de gallo puts a tangy spin on traditional pico de gallo, which typically features tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and lime juice. This pickle-inspired twist swaps in diced pickles, cucumber, and bell pepper for extra crunch and tanginess. My version combines the best of both worlds by adding classic ingredients like tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice, making it perfect as a topping or dip for hearty dishes like carne asada, barbacoa, nachos, or tacos.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Dill pickles: I used kosher dill pickles, but feel free to use sweet, bread and butter, or spicy pickles if that’s your thing. I recommend using pickles that are whole and then finely chopping them instead of using pickle chips. 
• Cucumber: Cucumbers add some freshness, crisp texture, and help balance the tanginess. I prefer using English cucumbers, but regular also works.
• Roma tomato: Adds sweetness and that classic pico de gallo flavor.
• Garlic: A little bit of garlic makes everything better.
• White onion: Milder and slightly sweet. Red onion works too if you prefer a sharper bite. 
• Bell pepper: Adds extra sweetness and crunch. I recommend using a sweeter pepper, like red or orange, instead of green. 
• Pickle brine: Don’t toss it! This stuff adds incredible flavor right out of the jar.
• Cilantro: Gives it that fresh, herby Mexican-inspired taste. Swap in some dill for a more classic relish vibe.
• Lime juice: Fresh is best to brighten everything up.
• Kosher salt: Brings all the flavors together.

(See the recipe card below for full measurements.)

How to Make Pickle de Gallo

Toss all ingredients together in a bowl until combined.

Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes (but an hour is even better!) to let all those flavors come together.

How and What to Serve with Pickle de Gallo

Pickle de Gallo makes a great salsa or dip paired with tortilla chips, but definitely don’t stop there. You can also use it as a garnish on recipes like carne asada, cheese enchiladas, nachos, or carnitas.

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