Cactus Fruit Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo con Xoconostle

Enjoy this unique variation of pico de Gallo, from the community of Don Francisco, Guanajuato. Classic pico de gallo is an uncooked salsa/dip prepared with plum tomatoes, onion, cilantro, chile serrano, and lime juice. This version is prepared with sour xoconostle cactus fruit and avocado which gives it a unique tart taste.

The recipe was told to us by Don Cirilo, a vendor who comes daily to San Miguel de Allende from the community of Don Francisco to sell lettuce, medicinal plants, and xoconostle which he grows on his plot of land. It’s a dish that he and his family enjoy regularly.

A Healthy Dish

Of course it’s delicious but it’s very easy to make and healthy. It’s also a perfect vegan or vegetarian option. Try it next time you get together with friends and family. You will never want a pre-made pico de Gallo again.

How to Make

You need the following ingredients:

4 xoconostle cactus fruits (available at Mexican/Hispanic markets).

2 plum tomatoes.

2 avocados.

¼ white onion.

1 serrano chile.

1 tsp. salt.

The fresher the ingredients, the better the dish. Look for very ripe tomatoes and avocados that are soft but not yet mushy. The cilantro should be firm and not wilted. The cactus fruit should be firm but give slightly when pressed.

Prepping the Cactus Fruit

Cut the ends off the cactus fruit and remove the outer skin with a sharp knife. Slice the fruit in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. Here is a quick tutorial to clean and peel cactus fruit, how to clean a cactus fruit. Cut the cleaned cactus fruit into ¼″ pieces.

Prepping the Remaining Ingredients

Cut the tops off the tomatoes then slice in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp and discard.

Cut the tomato, onion, and avocado into ¼” pieces.

Cut the stem end off the serrano chile and slice lengthwise. Remove the seeds and veins and finely chop.

Remove the cilantro stems and finely chop.

Place all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and gently stir until all ingredients are well mixed. 

Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes so that the flavor blends and concentrates.

How to Serve

Serve cool not cold. Enjoy like you would with a classic pico de gallo or guacamole. Serve with chips or on tostadas. Try it on carne asada tacos in place of your usual salsa.

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes.

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes.

Servings: 6 servings.

Notes

Use 2 serrano chiles if you prefer a hotter pico de gallo. Omit the chiles is you don’t want it hot.

You don’t need to add lime juice because the cactus fruit adds tartness.

Nutrition

Calories: 114kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 395mg | Potassium: 392mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 430IU | Vitamin C: 10.9mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.5mg