This Fresh Mango Salsa Salmon is a fun and tasty way to enjoy dinner! Juicy salmon is topped with sweet, colorful mango salsa that adds a refreshing twist.
Making this dish is a breeze! Just grill or bake the salmon, whip up the salsa, and you’re ready to impress. It’s perfect for warm evenings with a side of rice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! Look for wild-caught for the best flavor. If you can’t find salmon, trout or even tilapia works well. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Mango: Ripe mango adds sweetness. If mangoes aren’t available, try peach or pineapple as a fruity substitute. They’ll bring a similar brightness to your salsa!
Jalapeño: To add spice, jalapeño is great, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder flavor. Or, use a milder pepper like a poblano if you still want some heat.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a favorite for its unique flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute. It provides a fresh touch without the distinctive taste of cilantro.
How Do I Get Juicy, Flaky Salmon Every Time?
Cooking salmon perfectly ensures it stays moist and flaky. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Temperature: Preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C) is crucial. It ensures even cooking!
- Timing: For grilling, cook for 4-6 minutes on each side. For baking, aim for 12-15 minutes. Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Skin-Side Down: If grilling, start with skin-side down. It helps keep the fish moist and makes it easier to flip!
With these insights, you’ll be all set to create a delicious meal of Mango Salsa Salmon that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking!
Fresh Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Juice of half a lime
For the Fresh Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a yummy dinner ready in approximately 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Method:
Start by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re baking the salmon, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and juice from half a lime. Stir well until mixed. Brush this mixture evenly on both sides of the salmon fillets.
3. Cook the Salmon:
If you’re grilling, place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If you’re baking, place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until fully cooked.
4. Make the Mango Salsa:
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the mango salsa. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and add salt to taste. Gently toss all the ingredients together until combined.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your salmon is cooked, place each fillet on a plate and spoon a generous amount of fresh mango salsa on top. Enjoy right away, optionally pairing it with steamed rice or a light salad!
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make Mango Salsa Salmon dinner!
FAQ for Fresh Mango Salsa Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for Mango?
If mango isn’t in season or available, try using diced peaches or pineapple for a similar sweet and tropical flavor. Both will complement the salmon beautifully!
How Do I Store Leftover Salsa?
Store any leftover mango salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. If the onions cause the salsa to become too pungent over time, you may want to add fresh onion right before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the salmon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it on top of the cooked salmon!
