Salmon with Mango Salsa
This Salmon with Mango Salsa recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The flaky salmon pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy mango salsa, creating a dish that is not only vibrant but also healthy. Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or summer barbecues, this recipe makes an impression while being easy to prepare. Enjoy the fresh ingredients and zesty flavors that will make your taste buds sing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: The mango salsa adds a refreshing twist that complements the rich salmon beautifully.
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with coconut rice, on a salad, or even in tacos for different meal ideas.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe supports a balanced diet.
- Impressive Presentation: The colorful ingredients create an eye-catching dish that will wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Salmon with Mango Salsa, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help ensure your cooking experience goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on the salmon while also providing beautiful grill marks.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the salmon and mixing the salsa without making a mess.
- Knife and cutting board: Important for safely chopping your fresh ingredients like mango, avocado, and vegetables.
- Whisk: Helps you easily combine all marinade ingredients for even flavor distribution.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 cloves crushed garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons Tajin (Note 1)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
For the Salmon
- 4 4-6-ounce salmon filets (Note 2)
For the Salsa
- 1 large ripe avocado (pitted and diced)
- 1 large mango (diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced small)
- 2 Tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
- 1/2 jalapeño (seeded and minced)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
How to Make Salmon with Mango Salsa
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, lime juice, garlic, and spices. Add the salmon filets to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes or overnight (no longer than one day).
Step 2: Prepare Coconut Rice (Optional)
If you plan to serve your salmon with coconut rice, start preparing it while the salmon is marinating.
Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa
While the salmon marinates, dice and chop your avocado, mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, and red onion. Squeeze lime juice over these ingredients and sprinkle with salt. Toss everything gently to coat. Taste it; add more lime juice or salt if desired.
Step 4: Grill the Salmon
When ready to cook your salmon, clean your grill grates thoroughly. Brush them lightly with an oiled kitchen towel or paper towels. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F). Once hot enough, place your marinated salmon filets on the grill. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
Enjoy your delicious Salmon with Mango Salsa!
How to Serve Salmon with Mango Salsa
Serving salmon with mango salsa brings out the vibrant flavors and textures of this dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delightful meal.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh greens: Serve the salmon on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
- Spinach: Pair it with sautéed spinach for a nutrient boost and earthy flavor.
With Coconut Rice
- Coconut rice: This creamy side complements the sweetness of the mango salsa perfectly.
- Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, serve with fluffy quinoa cooked in coconut milk.
In Tacos
- Taco shells: Flake the grilled salmon into warm corn tortillas and top with mango salsa for tasty tacos.
- Lettuce wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb option for fresh and crunchy wraps.
As Part of a Grain Bowl
- Grain bowls: Create a nourishing bowl by adding grains like farro or barley, topped with avocado and salsa.
- Roasted vegetables: Include roasted seasonal veggies to enhance the flavor profile.
How to Perfect Salmon with Mango Salsa
To achieve the best results when making salmon with mango salsa, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate longer: Letting the salmon marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe fruits will elevate your salsa’s taste significantly.
- Preheat your grill: A well-heated grill ensures perfect searing and prevents sticking.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your salsa before serving to balance sweetness and acidity according to preference.
Best Side Dishes for Salmon with Mango Salsa
Pairing side dishes with salmon can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting contrast to the spicy salsa.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds crunch and freshness, complementing the flavors of the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter pairs wonderfully with both salmon and mango salsa.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch that balances out rich flavors.
- Brown Rice Pilaf: Nutty brown rice pilaf enhances the meal’s texture while being nutritious.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy element that harmonizes beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Salmon with Mango Salsa, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the salmon to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 20 minutes for optimal taste.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon for too long makes it dry. Aim for a cooking time of about 8 minutes or until it’s just cooked through.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can result in an imbalanced salsa. Use precise measurements to ensure the best flavor profile.
- Ignoring Freshness: Using overripe or underripe mangoes can ruin your salsa. Always choose ripe, firm mangoes for the best taste and texture.
- Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting as you go is essential. Don’t forget to adjust lime juice and salt to match your taste preferences!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Salmon with Mango Salsa.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking for even results.
What is the best way to serve Salmon with Mango Salsa?
This dish pairs well with coconut rice or quinoa, enhancing its tropical flavors.
How long can I store leftover salmon?
You can store leftover salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without compromising flavor.
Can I customize the mango salsa?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more fruits like pineapple or switch herbs based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Prepare the salmon and salsa separately for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Salmon with Mango Salsa is a vibrant dish that is not only delicious but also healthy. Its balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes it versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding different fruits or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!
Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Salmon with Mango Salsa, a dish that perfectly balances the rich, flaky salmon with the sweet and spicy notes of fresh mango salsa. This recipe is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for dinner parties and casual weeknight meals alike. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare this healthy, tropical delight that will excite your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether served over coconut rice, in tacos, or on a refreshing salad, this dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Get ready to elevate your dining experience!
Ingredients
- 4 4-6-ounce salmon filets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 cloves crushed garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons Tajin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 large ripe avocado (pitted and diced)
- 1 large mango (diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced small)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
- 1/2 jalapeño (seeded and minced)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
- Marinate the salmon by whisking soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, lime juice, garlic, and spices in a bowl. Add salmon filets to coat evenly and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Prepare the mango salsa by dicing mango, avocado, red bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, and red onion. Mix with lime juice and salt.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill marinated salmon for about 4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Serve salmon topped with fresh mango salsa.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon filet with salsa (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
