This grilled salmon dish topped with fresh mango salsa is a burst of flavor! The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the tasty fish for a lovely meal.
Making this recipe is a breeze and a fun way to impress your family or guests. I always love to serve it on warm nights when we can enjoy it outside! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! I prefer fillets with the skin on for added flavor and crunch, but skinless is fine too. If you’re looking for a different fish, trout or tilapia works great in this recipe.
Mango: A ripe mango is key for sweetness. If mango isn’t available, try using peaches or pineapple for a similar fresh taste. You could also use canned mango for convenience!
Jalapeño: This adds a nice kick! If you want a milder version, simply omit it or substitute with a tiny pinch of cayenne. For more heat, use a serrano pepper instead.
Avocado: Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the salsa. If you don’t have one, you can use diced cucumbers for crunch without the creaminess.
How Do I Get Crispy Salmon Skin?
Getting crispy salmon skin is a common cooking challenge but very rewarding! Here are some tips:
- Pat the skin dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps it crisp up!
- Use medium-high heat to get the oil hot enough to sizzle the fish when it goes in.
- Avoid flipping the salmon too soon. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes on one side to form that crust.
- Use a nonstick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent sticking.
Following these steps will help you achieve that delicious crispy texture every time!
Easy Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 avocado, seeded and diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (about one medium tomato)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 20 minutes to whip up this delicious meal, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy weekend dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), and cilantro. Squeeze the juice of the lime over the salsa and gently toss everything together. Add salt to taste and set it aside to let the flavors meld while you cook the salmon.
2. Season the Salmon:
Using paper towels, pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps to achieve that lovely crispy crust. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mix evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully add the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down if the skin is on. Let them cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes—this will help them get that nice crispy crust.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Once the first side is golden brown, gently flip the salmon fillets. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve:
Transfer each salmon fillet to a serving plate, and spoon a generous amount of fresh mango salsa over the top. If you’d like, drizzle some of your pan juices over the salmon for extra flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delightful Easy Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa! This dish goes wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or a refreshing green salad to complete your meal.
This recipe is sure to impress with its balance of smokiness from the salmon and the vibrant, fresh sweetness of the mango salsa. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!
FAQ for Easy Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Mango?
If you can’t find ripe mango, feel free to use diced peaches or pineapple for a similar sweet and juicy flavor. Canned mango (in juice, not syrup) can also work in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness of your salsa accordingly!
How Can I Make the Salsa Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, consider adding more jalapeño or using a hotter pepper like a serrano. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the salsa for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon and Salsa?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salsa can also be stored separately in the fridge for the same time. To reheat the salmon, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Enjoy the salsa cold, as it’s best fresh!
