Salmon with Mango Salsa
This salmon with mango salsa recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that will brighten up any meal. It combines the smokiness of grilled salmon with the sweetness of mango salsa, making it a perfect dish for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky salmon and sweet mango salsa creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from salmon and fresh veggies, this recipe supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over coconut rice or alongside your favorite grains for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this colorful dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your prep and cooking, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on the salmon, giving it those beautiful char marks.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your marinade ingredients and tossing the salmon to ensure even coating.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables for the mango salsa quick and easy.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for all your chopping needs.
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
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
For the Salmon
- 4 4–6-ounce salmon filets
For the Mango 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 them to coat in the marinade.
- Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes or overnight (no longer than one day).
Step 2: Prepare Coconut Rice (Optional)
If you’re serving your salmon with coconut rice, start preparing it while the salmon marinates.
Step 3: Make Mango Salsa
While the salmon is marinating:
1. Dice and chop the avocado, mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, and red onion.
2. Squeeze lime juice on top of the chopped ingredients and sprinkle with salt.
3. Toss everything together gently to coat. Taste and adjust lime juice or salt as needed.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
- Clean grill grates thoroughly and brush them with an oiled kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Heat grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F).
- Brush grates with oil using paper towels before placing salmon on them.
Now you have all you need to create an unforgettable meal featuring salmon with mango salsa! Enjoy this vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Salmon with Mango Salsa
Serving salmon with mango salsa offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
On a Bed of Greens
- Use mixed greens or arugula as a base for the salmon and mango salsa. This adds freshness and a crunchy texture.
With Coconut Rice
- Serve the salmon atop fluffy coconut rice to complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the salsa. The rice absorbs the juices beautifully.
In Tacos
- Flake the salmon and layer it in corn tortillas with mango salsa, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime juice for a fun taco night.
Over Quinoa
- Place the grilled salmon and mango salsa on cooked quinoa for a healthy, protein-packed meal that is both filling and nutritious.
As Part of a Grain Bowl
- Combine the salmon with other ingredients like black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes in a grain bowl for a hearty, colorful dish.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pair salmon with seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to add even more flavor and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect Salmon with Mango Salsa
To achieve the best results with your salmon and mango salsa, consider these helpful tips.
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Marinate Properly: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This enhances flavor absorption without overpowering the fish.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe mangoes and fresh herbs. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your dish.
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Preheat Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect sear on your salmon.
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Watch Cooking Time: Salmon cooks quickly; aim for about 4-5 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to dry fish.
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Taste Before Serving: Always taste your mango salsa before serving. Adjust lime juice or salt according to your preference.
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Consider Presentation: Serve on vibrant plates or bowls that enhance the colors of the dish. A beautiful presentation elevates any meal!
Best Side Dishes for Salmon with Mango Salsa
Pairing side dishes with salmon and mango salsa can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these potatoes make a comforting addition.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture that complements the richness of the salmon.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish matches perfectly with mango salsa, bringing additional layers of flavor.
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Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw with lime dressing offers crunchiness that pairs well with both fish and fruit.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes; grill it alongside your salmon for added smokiness.
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad: A refreshing salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives creates an exciting contrast with rich salmon flavors.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor balances out sweet elements from the mango salsa beautifully.
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Grilled Zucchini Boats: Stuffed zucchini is not only tasty but also visually appealing when served alongside this vibrant dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making salmon with mango salsa, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s success. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
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Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the salmon can lead to bland flavor. Always allow at least 20 minutes for the marinade to infuse the salmon with taste.
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Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking the salmon too long makes it dry. Aim for a cooking time of about 8 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
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Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old or canned ingredients can diminish flavor. Opt for fresh mango, avocado, and herbs for the best results.
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Ignoring Spice Levels: Failing to adjust spice levels can make the dish too mild or too spicy. Taste your salsa and adjust jalapeño according to your preference.
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Not Balancing Flavors: Forgetting to balance sweetness and acidity can result in a flat taste. Ensure you add enough lime juice and salt to elevate the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover salmon with mango salsa in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salmon with Mango Salsa
- You can freeze cooked salmon without salsa for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, covering it to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making salmon with mango salsa:
How do I choose ripe mangoes for Salmon with Mango Salsa?
Look for mangoes that yield slightly when pressed and have a sweet aroma at the stem end. They should be vibrant in color.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking.
What can I serve with Salmon with Mango Salsa?
This dish pairs well with coconut rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Is Salmon with Mango Salsa healthy?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from the salmon and vitamins from fresh fruits and vegetables, making it nutritious and delicious.
Can I make Mango Salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare mango salsa up to a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge but add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Final Thoughts
Salmon with mango salsa is not just a feast for the eyes but also offers great taste harmony between sweet and spicy. Its versatility allows for customization; consider adding different fruits or adjusting spices as per your liking. Give this beautiful dish a try—you’ll love how easy and delightful it is!

Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Salmon with Mango Salsa—a delightful dish that effortlessly combines the smoky richness of grilled salmon with the fresh, sweet notes of mango salsa. This recipe is ideal for summer gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or impressing guests at your next barbecue. With its colorful presentation and nutrient-packed ingredients, this meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy a burst of tropical flavors that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon filets (4–6 ounces each)
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- Soy sauce or coconut aminos (for marinade)
- Spices: Tajin, paprika, chili powder
Instructions
- Marinate salmon in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices for at least 20 minutes.
- While marinating, prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced mango, avocado, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
- Grill salmon over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky.
- Serve grilled salmon topped with 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: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg