This salmon dish shines with colorful mango salsa on top! The sweet mango pairs perfectly with the flaky fish, making it a refreshing meal.
Whenever I make this, I can’t help but smile at how easy it is to prepare. Just grill the salmon and toss the salsa together—dinner in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is perfect for this dish. If you can’t find salmon, try trout or even tilapia. Frozen salmon is also a great alternative—just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
Mango: Ripe mango gives the salsa its sweet flavor. If mango is out of season, you can substitute with peach or pineapple for a different twist. Just be sure they’re nice and ripe for the best taste.
Spices: The spices bring a nice kick to the salmon. If you prefer milder flavor, reduce the chili powder or leave out the jalapeño. You can even swap in other spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of variation.
Cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh touch. If you’re not a fan, parsley or basil can work well too, giving a different flavor to the salsa.
How Can I Cook Salmon Without Worrying About It Being Overdone?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it. Here are my tips to ensure it’s perfectly cooked:
- Start with a hot skillet, which gives the salmon a nice sear. Medium-high heat works best.
- Pat the salmon dry—this helps it cook evenly and prevents it from steaming.
- Cook skin-side down first (if applicable). This keeps the fillet from falling apart and provides a crispy texture.
- Watch for color change! Cook until it’s opaque about three-quarters of the way up the fillet, then flip for the last cook.
- Don’t overcook! Salmon is best when it’s slightly pink in the center. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for moist, tender fish.
Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (plus lime slices for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Optional: extra cilantro leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking. So, in just about 30 minutes, you can have a wonderful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salsa:
In a medium bowl, stir together the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you want some heat), and chopped cilantro. This fresh mixture will bring life to the dish! Add lime juice and honey; then, gently mix it all together. Set it aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the salmon.
2. Season the Salmon:
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture—this helps the seasoning stick better. Then, drizzle olive oil over the salmon and rub the spice mixture evenly onto each fillet.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if your fillets have skin). Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about halfway through. Then, carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and has a nice char on both sides.
4. Serve:
Once cooked, plate the salmon fillets and generously spoon the fresh mango salsa over each. Garnish with lime slices and extra cilantro leaves if you like. This dish is best enjoyed right away, so dig in!
This recipe beautifully combines the smoky, spiced salmon with a vibrant, sweet, and tangy mango salsa. It’s a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon before cooking for even results. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Mango in the Salsa?
If mango isn’t available, pineapple or peach works wonderfully as a substitute! Choose ripe fruit for the best flavor and sweetness.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To enjoy it again, gently reheat the salmon in the oven or on the stovetop, and freshen up the salsa with a squeeze of lime juice if needed.
What Sides Pair Well with Salmon and Mango Salsa?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it alongside grilled veggies or tortilla chips for a delicious contrast!