This salmon dish topped with fresh mango salsa is a real winner! The juicy, sweet mango pairs perfectly with the rich, flaky salmon, making it a bright and tasty meal.
When I make this, I can’t help but smile. It feels like eating tropical sunshine on a plate! Perfect for impressing friends or just making a regular dinner special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best, but you can also use frozen fillets. If you prefer a different fish, try trout or sea bass. They have a similar texture.
Mango: A ripe mango gives the best flavor. If mango isn’t in season, substitutes like pineapple or peach can work well for that tropical sweetness.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a nice crunch and sweetness to the salsa. You can swap it for other colors of bell peppers or use cucumbers for a crunchier texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the salsa. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be good alternatives.
Jalapeño: This is optional for heat. If you like it spicy, leave some seeds in or add a diced serrano pepper. For a milder flavor, skip the jalapeño altogether.
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon right can seem tricky, but it’s easier with a few tips. Here’s how to get that perfect flaky texture:
- Start with dry fillets. Pat them with a paper towel to remove moisture for a nice sear.
- Heat your pan before adding oil to make sure it’s hot enough. A sizzling sound means you’re good to go.
- Cook skin-side down first if it has skin! This helps keep the fish together and brings out flavor.
- Don’t flip too soon! Wait until the bottom is golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the fillet.
- Check for doneness. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off as preferred
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking salmon)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a beautiful, flavorful dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño (if you’re using it). Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir gently to mix everything together. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Place the salsa in the fridge while you prepare the salmon—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
2. Season the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Drizzle a little olive oil over each fillet and rub it in gently. Use salt and ground black pepper to generously season both sides of the salmon. This adds great flavor, so don’t be shy!
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in, skin-side down if applicable. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is crispy and golden brown.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using a spatula, carefully flip the salmon fillets over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them!
5. Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a serving plate. Generously spoon the fresh mango salsa over each fillet, allowing some of it to spill onto the plate for a lovely, colorful presentation.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful balance of warm salmon and the refreshing, tropical mango salsa!
Dig in and savor every bite of this vibrant dish! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag under cold running water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
How Can I Make the Salsa Spicier?
If you want a spicier kick, you can leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add more minced jalapeño. Alternatively, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salsa for extra heat!
Can I Make the Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving, as the juices may settle.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can serve it over rice, quinoa, or with a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables or a side of tortilla chips also complement the flavors nicely.
