Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
I remember the first time I tried salmon with mango salsa. It was at a small beachfront restaurant in Mexico. The flavors were so fresh and vibrant; the sweetness of the mango and the slight kick of chili perfectly complemented the richness of the salmon. I knew I had to recreate it at home! I've tweaked the recipe over the years to make it my own and its just delicious. Trust me, you're gonna love it!
This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. The key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for wild-caught salmon, if possible, and perfectly ripe mangoes that are firm but yield slightly to pressure. The salsa can be made ahead of time, which makes the whole process even quicker. You might also want to get a little creative with the herbs; while cilantro is classic, mint or basil can add a fun twist.
I know some people get intimidated by grilling fish, but don't worry, it's easier than you think! The trick is to make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. This prevents the salmon from sticking and ensures those beautiful grill marks. And don't overcook it! Salmon is best when it's slightly pink and flaky in the center. Serve it with a side of quinoa or rice and a simple green salad for a complete and healthy meal. This is one of those recipes you'll turn to again and again, especially when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Required Equipments
Grill
Mixing Bowl
Cutting Board
Knife
Grill Brush
Meat Thermometer
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa: A Tropical Delight: Frequently Asked Questions
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa: A Tropical Delight
This grilled salmon recipe pairs perfectly with a vibrant mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango, combined with the richness of the salmon, creates a delightful culinary experience that's both healthy and delicious.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Prepare the Mango Salsa: Dice 2 ripe mangoes into small cubes. You want them to be about ¼ inch in size for the best texture. I often find it helpful to cut the mango cheeks off first and then dice the flesh while it's still attached to the skin – just score it and scoop it out!.
Add the Other Salsa Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes with ½ cup of finely diced red onion. Be sure to use a sharp knife for this; nobody likes unevenly diced onions! Also, add 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced. If you're sensitive to heat, start with half a jalapeño and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!.
Incorporate Cilantro, Lime Juice, and Seasoning: Add ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl. Cilantro can be polarizing – if you're not a fan, try fresh mint or basil instead. Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don't be shy with the seasoning; it really brings out the flavors.
Mix the Salsa and Let it Rest: Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the salsa to reach its full potential. I usually make it an hour or two in advance.
Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. I use a grill brush and then rub the grates with an oiled paper towel.
Season the Salmon: Pat 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the salmon get a nice sear. Brush each fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. You can also use your favorite fish seasoning blend.
Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Check for Doneness: To check for doneness, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and gently twist. If the salmon flakes easily, it's ready. Alternatively, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Serve: Carefully remove the grilled salmon from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Top each fillet generously with the prepared mango salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy! This dish pairs well with quinoa, rice, or a simple green salad.
📝 Notes
For a spicier salsa, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in.
If you don't have a grill, you can pan-sear the salmon in a skillet.
Make the salsa ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld.
Try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the salsa for added sweetness.