Watermelon pico de gallo is a refreshing and unique twist on the traditional tomato-based pico de gallo. However, you can create this recipe also with tomatoes. The sweetness of the watermelon contrasts nicely with the heat of the jalapeño and the tang of the lime, creating a vibrant and summery dish.

What’s the difference between salsa and pico de gallo?

Salsa is generally wetter, smoother, and spicier than pico de gallo. It can be uncooked (salsa fresca or salsa cruda) or cooked, but it’s usually pureed or crushed to some degree.

On the other hand, pico de gallo is almost always a mixture of diced or coarsely chopped uncooked vegetables and/or fruit. It’s chunky and not too wet. It can have some heat but is usually not as spicy as salsa. Both of these sauces are used predominantly as condiments.

Difference between watermelon pico de gallo with or without tomatoes

If you enjoy a more traditional pico de gallo experience with the added sweetness of watermelon, the version with tomatoes might be your favorite. If you prefer a lighter, more watermelon-centric dish, the version without tomatoes would be ideal.

Flavor Profile:

• With tomatoes: The addition of tomatoes adds a traditional element to the pico de gallo, providing a balance of acidity and umami that complements the sweetness of the watermelon.
• Without tomatoes: The pure watermelon version is lighter and more focused on the sweet and tangy combination of watermelon and lime, with a cleaner taste that might appeal if you want to highlight the watermelon more prominently.

Texture:

• With tomatoes: The combination of watermelon and tomatoes creates a more varied texture, with the tomatoes adding a slight firmness compared to the juicy watermelon.
• Without tomatoes: The texture is more uniform, with the watermelon providing a consistent crunch and juiciness throughout.

Complexity:

• With tomatoes: The inclusion of tomatoes makes the recipe slightly more complex in terms of flavor layering, which can be appealing if you enjoy a more intricate taste.
• Without tomatoes: Simpler and quicker to prepare, the watermelon-only version has a straightforward, refreshing quality.

Versatility:

• With tomatoes: This version might pair better with a wider range of dishes, especially those that traditionally complement tomato-based salsas.
• Without tomatoes: This version is particularly refreshing and can be a great palate cleanser or a side for lighter, summery dishes.

Serving tips

They are superb as dips for fresh homemade tortilla chips, embellishments for tacos or quesadillas, and accompaniments for grilled or sautéed fish, chicken, pork, or prawns. In short, no matter what they are called, I can’t imagine cooking without a wide assortment of these colorful, flavorful sauces.