If you are looking for a vibrant and delicious way to enjoy seafood, this Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the rich, flaky texture of perfectly cooked salmon with the fresh, zesty sweetness of homemade mango salsa, this dish bursts with balanced flavors that will brighten any meal. It’s simple to prepare but impressively satisfying, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to achieving the fresh, colorful bite that defines this Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe. Each component plays a special role, from tender salmon filets providing a hearty base to bright mango and crisp vegetables creating that irresistible salsa zing.
- 4 salmon filets: Choose fresh, skin-on filets for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds a refreshing citrus brightness essential for both the salmon and salsa.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the salmon to a crispy, golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the tangy and spicy elements with subtle sweetness in the seasoning blend.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat and aroma to the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A warm, savory note that deepens flavor complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1 large ripe mango, diced: The star of the salsa, offering juicy sweetness and tropical flair.
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced: Adds a crisp bite and sharp contrast to the mango.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Provides crunch, color, and a mild peppery flavor.
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced: Gives a gentle kick that livens up the salsa.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Extra citrus to brighten and balance the salsa’s sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a herbaceous and fragrant finish to the salsa.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning the salsa just right.
How to Make Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Blend
Begin by mixing your brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl. This simple but flavorful seasoning mix is what will give the salmon its signature depth and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the mango salsa.
Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa
In a large bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure each bite is bursting with fresh, zesty flavor. Let the salsa rest while you cook the salmon to allow the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Brush the salmon filets all over with lime juice to tenderize and add brightness, then generously rub the seasoning blend onto each filet. Make sure every inch is covered to create that irresistible crust and flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat, then place the salmon filet skin side down. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to get a crispy skin, then carefully flip and cook another 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve with Mango Salsa
Plate the salmon filets and generously spoon the mango salsa on top. The combination of warm, savory salmon and cool, fruity salsa creates a harmony of flavors that’s both refreshing and richly satisfying.
How to Serve Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your dish further with a few fresh cilantro leaves or a thin slice of lime. These simple touches provide an extra pop of color and aroma that enhance the overall dining experience.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides such as fluffy jasmine rice, quinoa salad, or lightly sautéed green beans. The goal is to balance the fresh, zesty salmon and salsa with subtle, nourishing accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe on a bed of mixed greens or tucked into warm corn tortillas for an easy salmon taco variation. For a more elegant presentation, plate the salmon atop a swirl of avocado crema or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a colorful contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked salmon and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the salsa’s juices from making the salmon soggy and keeps both components tasting fresh.
Freezing
While fresh mango salsa doesn’t freeze well due to its watery texture, you can freeze the seasoned salmon filets raw. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw in the refrigerator before cooking to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat salmon gently in a low oven or skillet to avoid drying it out. Add the mango salsa fresh after warming to keep its bright, fresh taste intact for your next meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works fine. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure the best texture and flavor.
How spicy is the mango salsa with jalapeño?
The heat level is mild to moderate, as the jalapeño is seeded and diced finely. You can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder salsa.
Can I prepare the mango salsa ahead of time?
Absolutely. The salsa actually tastes better after sitting for 30 minutes to an hour as the flavors meld, just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
What is the best way to tell when salmon is cooked perfectly?
Look for an internal temperature of 145°F and check that the fish flakes easily with a fork but remains moist and tender inside.
Can I substitute another fruit if I don’t have mango?
While mango is ideal for its sweetness and texture, you could experiment with peaches or pineapple for a similar tropical vibe, though the flavor will change slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration on a plate. It’s fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, bringing a little sunshine to your dinner table any day of the week. I encourage you to try it out—you’ll love the zingy mango salsa contrasted with the tender salmon. It’s sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for you and your loved ones!
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Mango Salsa Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mango Salsa Salmon recipe offers a delicious and vibrant twist on classic pan-seared salmon. Juicy salmon filets are seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices, cooked to perfection in a skillet, and topped with a fresh, zesty mango salsa that combines ripe mango, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Perfect for a healthy and refreshing meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon filets
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Create seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to create an even seasoning blend for the salmon.
- Prepare mango salsa: In a large bowl, add the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well until the ingredients are fully combined, then set the salsa aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season the salmon: Brush the salmon filets all over with lime juice, then sprinkle and rub the prepared seasoning mix over each filet, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the seasoned salmon filets in the skillet, skin side down. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes, then gently flip each filet and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the cooked salmon from the skillet. Plate each filet and spoon generous amounts of mango salsa on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is adequately heated before placing the salmon to prevent sticking and to develop a nice crust.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the salsa depending on your preferred spice level.
- The mango salsa can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days to enhance the flavor blending.
- For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
- Check the internal temperature of salmon with a food thermometer to ensure it is cooked safely to 145°F.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
