This Fresh Mango Salsa Salmon is the perfect summer treat! With juicy mango, zesty lime, and flavorful herbs, it brings a burst of sunshine to your plate. Plus, salmon is healthy and tasty!
I love how easy it is to make! Just grill the salmon, mix the salsa, and you’re set. Serve it with some rice or tortilla chips, and you’re ready for a sunny day feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! You can choose wild-caught or farmed, but wild is my favorite for flavor. If you want to try something different, use trout or tilapia as alternatives.
Mango: Ripe mango adds natural sweetness. If mangoes aren’t in season, fresh pineapple or papaya can make excellent substitutes, giving a tropical flair!
Red Bell Pepper: This gives a nice crunch and color. You can swap it with other peppers, like yellow or orange, or even cucumber for a milder taste.
Cilantro: It’s fresh and fragrant! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can work just as well for some freshness.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Getting perfectly cooked salmon can be tricky, but here’s how to master it:
- Always start with dry fillets. Pat them down with paper towels; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Preheat your grill or pan well. A hot surface ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and gives a great crust.
- Cook skin-side down first. This helps protect the fish from overcooking and adds flavor.
- Check for doneness by gently pressing down; it should flake easily but still look moist. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
With these tips, you’ll serve up amazing salmon every time! Enjoy cooking!
Fresh Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for grilling
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and vibrant meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro. Squeeze in the lime juice, add a pinch of salt, and gently toss everything together. Set the salsa aside for a few minutes to let the flavors blend while you prepare the salmon.
2. Prep the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels—they need to be dry for a nice sear! Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or the grill pan to prevent sticking. Place each salmon fillet skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve:
Once cooked, place each salmon fillet on a plate and generously spoon the fresh mango salsa over the top, allowing the bright colors to shine. It’s perfect with sides like rice, quinoa, or a refreshing green salad!
5. Optional:
For an added touch, garnish your dish with extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges to enhance the presentation and flavor. Enjoy this light, tropical dish perfect for warm summer days!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water in its sealed packaging for a quicker method. Pat it dry before seasoning and grilling.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon and Salsa?
To store leftovers, place the salmon and mango salsa in separate airtight containers. The salmon can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. The salsa can last about 1-2 days. Make sure to avoid mixing them until you’re ready to eat again to maintain the freshness of both!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh it.
What Other Fish Can I Use Instead of Salmon?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use trout, tilapia, or mahi-mahi. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary slightly depending on the type of fish you choose. Enjoy exploring different flavors!
