Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a refreshing twist on traditional salmon. The combination of juicy mango, crisp red onion, and zesty lime, with just a hint of heat from the jalapeño (if you choose to include it), creates a perfect salsa that elevates the richness of the salmon. The salsa is quick and easy to make, and the salmon cooks in under 15 minutes, making this recipe ideal for busy nights when you still want to enjoy something healthy and gourmet. The bright, tropical flavors will transport your taste buds straight to a sunny beach, making this dish not only delicious but a treat for the eyes as well.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (about ¼ cup)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Heat the Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Salmon:
- If grilling: Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- If using a skillet: Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, adjusting the time as needed, until the salmon is cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Plate the salmon and top generously with mango salsa.
- Garnish (optional): Serve with extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Grilled Mango Salsa: For a smoky twist, you can grill the mango and other veggies (like the bell pepper and onion) before making the salsa. This adds a depth of flavor to the salsa and pairs even better with the grilled salmon.
- Spicy Salsa: If you love spice, add more jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce, to the salsa for an extra kick.
- Cilantro-Free Version: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or mint can be used as a substitute.
- Different Fruit: Swap out mango for pineapple, papaya, or even peaches for a different tropical flavor.
Storage/Reheating
While this dish is best served fresh, the salsa can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. If you have leftover salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the salmon gently in the microwave or in a warm skillet, but be careful not to overcook it.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. It’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water before preparing the dish.
Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?
Yes! The mango salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Just be sure to add the cilantro right before serving to keep it fresh.
What should I serve with this salmon and mango salsa?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as rice, quinoa, a green salad, or even a light couscous. For a low-carb option, you could serve it with roasted or steamed vegetables.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked properly?
Salmon is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and easily flakes with a fork. If you’re not using a thermometer, the flesh should be opaque, and the fish should feel firm to the touch.
Can I use a different fish for this recipe?
While salmon is ideal for this dish, you can use other fish like tilapia, trout, or snapper. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish.
Can I add more ingredients to the salsa?
Yes! You can add diced cucumber, avocado, or a splash of orange juice to the salsa for added flavor and texture.
Can I cook the salmon in the oven instead of grilling or pan-searing?
Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
What’s the best way to serve the salsa on the salmon?
Top the salmon with the mango salsa just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. You can serve it alongside or spoon it on top for added flavor.
Can I make this dish spicy without using jalapeños?
Absolutely! You can use chili flakes, hot sauce, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for spice instead of fresh jalapeños.
How long will the salsa last in the fridge?
Mango salsa is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness, but it can last up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Salmon with Mango Salsa is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that combines fresh ingredients for a refreshing and satisfying meal. The tropical sweetness of mango salsa perfectly complements the savory richness of salmon, making this dish ideal for a light yet indulgent dinner. Whether grilled or pan-seared, this recipe is simple, healthy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Salmon with Mango Salsa: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You’ll Love
Salmon with Mango Salsa is a vibrant, flavorful dish that pairs tender salmon with a fresh, zesty mango salsa. The sweet and tangy salsa, made with mango, red onion, lime, and cilantro, complements the savory salmon perfectly, creating a balanced and refreshing meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 ripe mango, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped (about ¼ cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Heat the Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Salmon:
- If grilling: Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- If using a skillet: Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, adjusting the time as needed, until the salmon is cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Plate the salmon and top generously with mango salsa.
- Garnish (optional): Serve with extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish.
Notes
For a smoky twist, grill the mango and other veggies (like the bell pepper and onion) before making the salsa.
If you love spice, add more jalapeños or hot sauce to the salsa for an extra kick.
For a cilantro-free version, use fresh parsley or mint as a substitute.
Swap out mango for pineapple, papaya, or peaches for a different tropical flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with salsa
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg