This salmon dish topped with fresh mango salsa is a colorful delight! The sweet and tangy salsa adds a burst of flavor to the tender fish, making it a perfect summer meal.
Cooking salmon always makes me feel like a chef. Plus, who doesn’t love those vibrant mango chunks? Serve it with rice or a salad, and voilà—dinner is served! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Choose fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor. You can substitute with other fish like trout or tilapia, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Mango: Fresh mango adds sweetness and texture. If you’re out of mango, you could use peaches or pineapples for a different twist. Just make sure they’re ripe!
Chili: I love using fresh jalapeños for a little heat, but feel free to switch it up with bell peppers for milder flavor or even a pinch of cayenne if you want a serious kick.
Fresh Cilantro: This herb brightens up the salsa. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works well too, keeping the freshness intact.
Honey: It balances the salsa’s flavors. If you prefer to skip it, maple syrup or agave syrup can be a great alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon might seem tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here are steps to get it just right:
- Ensure your salmon is at room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use medium-high heat and a non-stick skillet or grill pan to prevent sticking.
- Start cooking skin-side down (if applicable) for about 4-5 minutes. Don’t rush flipping it; let it brown nicely.
- Flip the salmon gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Take it off the heat when it’s still slightly pink in the center, as it continues to cook outside of the pan.
With these tips, you’re on your way to perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red chili or jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (plus extra lime wedges for serving)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for salsa)
Time Estimate:
This delicious Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. So in just 20 minutes, you can have a colorful and tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Detailed Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend will add a wonderful flavor to your salmon.
2. Season the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Rub olive oil over both sides of the fillets, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on them. Make sure to coat them well!
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the salmon in the pan skin-side down, if it has skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the salmon is golden brown. Flip the salmon gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove the salmon from the heat and set it aside.
4. Make the Mango Salsa:
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the fresh mango salsa! In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped red onion, chopped chili or jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and honey (if you’d like it a bit sweeter). Mix everything gently to combine—all those vibrant colors and flavors will come together!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the salmon is plated, top it with the fresh mango salsa. Feel free to garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an added touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the fantastic flavors of this dish!
This vibrant, flavorful dish combines the rich taste of salmon with the bright, fresh zing of mango salsa. It’s sure to impress your family or guests!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Salmon and Salsa?
Store any leftover salmon and mango salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon should be consumed within 2-3 days, while the salsa can last for about 1-2 days. To reheat the salmon, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
What Can I Substitute for Mango in the Salsa?
If you can’t find fresh mango, you can use diced peaches or pineapple as delicious substitutes. They’ll bring a similar sweetness and tropical flair to the salsa!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator, but add the lime juice right before serving to keep the flavors bright and fresh.
