This salmon dish is a true delight! The fish is grilled to perfection, and the fresh mango salsa adds a sweet and zesty twist that makes each bite burst with flavor.
I’ve found that the vibrant mango salsa makes the salmon extra special. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can impress your friends without breaking a sweat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! You can use wild-caught or farmed salmon, depending on your preference. If you’d like a different fish, try trout or tilapia, as they work well with the salsa too.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives the salmon a nice flavor and helps with cooking. If you want a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter could be good swaps.
Mango: Fresh mango is best for this recipe. If it’s out of season, you can use canned or frozen mango—just make sure they’re thawed and chopped into pieces.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness to the salsa. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or basil instead for a different flavor. Just remember to chop it finely!
Jalapeño: This is optional if you want some heat. If you like it spicier, try using a serrano pepper. For a milder option, eliminate the jalapeño or use a bell pepper.
How Do I Get the Salmon Skin Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy skin can make your salmon even more delicious. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry skin; pat the salmon with paper towels before cooking. This helps to achieve crispiness.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, but not smoking. The right heat is key!
- Cook the salmon skin-side down first. Give it about 4-5 minutes, keeping an eye on it. Don’t move it around!
- Flip it only when the skin is really crispy—this helps it release easily from the pan.
Following these tips will give you salmon that’s not just tasty but also has a satisfying crunch! Enjoy your meal!
Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (plus lime wedges for serving)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy meal to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Salmon:
First, grab a small bowl and mix together the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once everything’s combined, rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets. This will give the salmon a flavorful kick that pairs perfectly with the fresh salsa.
2. Cooking the Salmon:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking!), carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on this side. Then, gently flip the salmon and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a lovely golden crust. Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. Making the Mango Salsa:
While your salmon is cooking, it’s the perfect time to whip up the mango salsa! In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, finely diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro. This fresh mix will add brightness and flavor to your dish.
4. Mixing the Salsa:
Now, pour in the lime juice and honey (or agave syrup) into the salsa mixture. Gently toss everything together so that the flavors mingle nicely. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning—add a little salt or more lime juice if you like!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
At this stage, your salmon should be ready to go! Place the salmon fillets on plates and spoon the zesty mango salsa generously over the top. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy this colorful and flavorful dish, where the sweet and tangy mango salsa perfectly complements the smoky, seasoned salmon!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the sealed salmon in cold water for about 30 minutes to speed up the thawing process.
Can I Make the Mango Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The mango salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the lime juice right before serving to keep the salsa fresh and vibrant.
What Can I Substitute for Mango?
If you can’t find ripe mango, you can substitute it with diced pineapple or peach for a similar sweet and fruity flavor. Avocado is also a great option for a creamier salsa. Just adjust the other ingredients as needed to balance the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon and Salsa?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The mango salsa can also be stored separately for about 2-3 days. To reheat the salmon, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it!