Onion and Cilantro Relish
A classic, vibrant mix of finely diced white onion, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime juice. This simple relish, often served with tacos and grilled meats in Mexican-American cuisine, adds a crunchy, zesty burst of freshness and is ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Onion and Cilantro
- b.Using a sharp knife, finely dice the white onion into small, uniform pieces (about 1/8-inch). Place the diced onion in a medium non-reactive bowl.
- c.For a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced onion in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes. Drain thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve before proceeding.
- d.Wash the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry. Finely chop the leaves and tender stems, then add them to the bowl with the onion.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Combine and Season
- b.Squeeze the fresh lime juice directly over the onion and cilantro mixture.
- c.Sprinkle the salt over the top.
- d.Using a spoon, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Let the relish rest at room temperature for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the lime juice to slightly soften the onion and meld the flavors.
- c.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or a squeeze of lime juice to your preference.
- d.Serve immediately as a topping for tacos, carne asada, grilled chicken, or fish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a very sharp knife for dicing the onion. This prevents bruising the onion cells, which results in a cleaner, less pungent flavor.
- 2Freshness is key. Always use fresh cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice for the best, brightest taste. Bottled lime juice will not yield the same result.
- 3This relish is best enjoyed the day it's made for maximum crunch and freshness. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the onion will soften over time.
- 4To easily chop cilantro, gather the bunch, twist it tightly, and slice through it with your knife.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Relish
Add 1 finely minced serrano or jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for less heat) to the mix for a spicy kick.
Pico de Gallo StylePico de Gallo Style
Add 1 cup of finely diced, seeded Roma tomatoes to turn this relish into a classic Pico de Gallo.
Red Onion VersionRed Onion Version
Substitute the white onion with red onion for a slightly sweeter flavor and a more vibrant color.
Avocado GarnishAvocado Garnish
For a creamier texture, gently fold in 1/2 cup of diced avocado just before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are a great source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. Cilantro also contains beneficial antioxidants.
Immunity Boosting
Both fresh lime juice and cilantro are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system.
Low-Calorie Flavor
This relish adds a significant amount of fresh flavor, texture, and brightness to dishes with very few calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
Supports Heart Health
The compounds in onions may help reduce high blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's low in calories and fat, and packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh onion, cilantro, and lime juice. It's a great way to add flavor to a meal without adding unhealthy fats or sugars.