There is something irresistibly vibrant about this Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe that brings summer sunshine right to your plate. The perfectly grilled salmon, with its slightly smoky, tender flesh, pairs beautifully with the sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy mango salsa. Each bite is an exciting harmony of juicy mango, creamy avocado, crisp bell peppers, and a zesty lime kick—this dish is a colorful, refreshing, and wholesome crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to favorites for warm-weather dinners or anytime you crave a burst of fresh flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe relies on fresh, straightforward ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—from the luscious mango that adds juicy sweetness to the salmon’s savory marinade that enhances every flaky bite.
- 4 salmon filets (4-6 ounces each): Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for moist, tender results.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos: Adds a boost of savory umami to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar: Balances the flavors with a subtle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Brings brightness and essential acidity to both the marinade and salsa.
- 1 large avocado, diced: Offers creamy texture that complements the salsa’s fresh ingredients.
- 1 large mango, diced: The star of the salsa, providing natural, tropical sweetness.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced: Adds a crisp crunch and vibrant red color.
- Fresh cilantro and jalapeño for salsa: Cilantro adds herbaceous freshness, while jalapeño introduces a gentle heat punch.
- Additional garlic and spices for marinade: Imparts depth and complexity to the grilled salmon.
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
Start by whisking together your soy sauce or coconut aminos with olive oil, maple syrup, lime juice, minced garlic, and your choice of spices. This marinade is key for infusing the salmon with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. Once mixed, coat the salmon filets evenly and cover them before refrigerating for at least 20 minutes, allowing all those lovely flavors to soak deep into the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Mango Salsa
While the salmon marinates, grab your cutting board and dice the avocado, mango, and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Add finely chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeño for just the right amount of heat, and red onion for a subtle sharpness. Toss everything gently in a bowl with fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt—this salsa is fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect topping for your grilled salmon.
Step 3: Grill the Salmon to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Grill the marinated salmon for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and boasts those classic grilled stripes. This step locks in moisture and imparts a smoky edge that contrasts beautifully with the lively salsa.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once your salmon is cooked, place it on serving plates and generously spoon over the fresh mango salsa. The warmth of the grilled salmon combined with the cool, zesty salsa creates an irresistible combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This is the joyful climax of your Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe and truly a feast for both eyes and palate.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a wonderful way to elevate your dish’s look and flavor. Consider a few sprigs of fresh cilantro, thin slices of jalapeño for extra heat, or a wedge of lime on the side. These small touches brighten up the plate and give each bite an added punch of freshness and color.
Side Dishes
The natural vibrant flavors of this Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe pair beautifully with light, complementary sides. Think fluffy cilantro-lime rice, grilled asparagus, or even a crunchy green salad. Each side adds its own texture and keeps the meal balanced and satisfying without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests or just have fun with your presentation? Serve the salmon atop a bed of leafy greens or fragrant quinoa, or even stuff the salsa into soft corn tortillas with flaked salmon for a playful taco twist. Presentation matters, and a little creativity makes this dish even more enjoyable to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from this Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe, store the salmon and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon will stay fresh for up to two days, while the salsa is best eaten within 24 hours to retain its texture and vibrant flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for the salsa since its fresh ingredients may become mushy upon thawing. However, the salmon filets can be frozen either cooked or uncooked. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and topping with freshly made salsa.
Reheating
To reheat salmon without drying it out, use a gentle method such as warming in the oven at 275°F wrapped in foil, or briefly in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the fish. Always add salsa fresh upon serving to keep its crisp, fresh qualities intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling to ensure even cooking and the best flavor absorption.
Is coconut aminos a good substitute for soy sauce?
Yes, coconut aminos provide a similar savory depth with less sodium, and they are a great option for those avoiding soy or gluten.
How spicy is the mango salsa?
The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you add. You can control the heat to suit your preference by removing seeds or using less jalapeño altogether for a milder salsa.
Can I prepare the mango salsa in advance?
It’s best to prepare the salsa just before serving to keep the avocado from browning and the vegetables crisp, but it can be chopped and prepped a few hours ahead and mixed just before plating.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
Look for salmon that flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque throughout. Internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfectly cooked fish.
Final Thoughts
There is a genuine joy in creating a dish that both looks stunning and tastes incredible, and this Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe perfectly fits that bill. It’s fresh, vibrant, and easy enough for a weekday supper but elegant enough to impress company. Give it a try soon—you’ll love how it brightens up your dinner table and your palate alike!
Print
Grilled Salmon with Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Salmon with Mango Salsa recipe offers a delightful combination of juicy grilled salmon filets topped with a fresh, tangy mango salsa. The marinated salmon is perfectly grilled to flaky tenderness and complemented by a colorful salsa featuring mango, avocado, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice. It’s a refreshing and healthy dish perfect for a quick dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Marinade
- 4 salmon filets (4–6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the salmon: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, lime juice, minced garlic, and ground cumin if using. Add the salmon filets and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
- Prepare the salsa: While the salmon marinates, dice the avocado, mango, red bell pepper, and red onion. Chop the fresh cilantro and finely chop the jalapeño if you like some heat. Combine all these salsa ingredients in a bowl, add lime juice and salt to taste, then mix gently ensuring the avocado remains chunky and intact.
- Cook the salmon: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400–450°F (204–232°C). Remove salmon from marinade and place on the grill. Cook the salmon for 6-8 minutes per side or until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Serve: Plate the grilled salmon filets and generously top each with a scoop of fresh mango salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy a flavor-packed, nutritious meal.
Notes
- Marinate the salmon for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 1 hour to prevent the acid in lime juice from breaking down the fish too much.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity according to your spice preference or omit for a milder salsa.
- You can substitute grilling with pan-searing the salmon if an outdoor grill is not available.
- Use coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative to soy sauce, suitable for gluten-free diets.
- The salsa is best served fresh but can be made up to 1 hour ahead and refrigerated, stirring gently before serving.
