This salmon dish topped with bright mango salsa is a fresh treat! The juicy mango adds a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with the tender fish. Yum!
Honestly, I love how colorful this plate looks! It feels like a sunny day on a dish. Serve it with rice or salad for a fun, healthy meal that makes my taste buds happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you can’t find fresh salmon, frozen fillets work too—just thaw them properly before cooking. You can also substitute with trout for a similar flavor and texture.
Mango: Ripe mango adds sweetness. If fresh mango isn’t available, you can use canned mango (drained) or even peach or pineapple for a twist!
Red Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and color. Feel free to swap it for yellow or orange bell pepper or even cucumber for a different texture.
Jalapeño: It’s optional for heat. If you prefer a milder salsa, omit it. For an extra kick, consider using serrano peppers instead!
Fresh Cilantro: This herb brings freshness to the salsa. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, use parsley or mint both will give a different, yet delightful flavor.
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can seem tricky, but it’s all about getting the timing right. Here are some handy tips for perfectly cooked salmon:
- It’s crucial to pat the salmon dry before seasoning. This helps get a nice crust when cooking.
- Start with medium-high heat to get the right sear. Cook skin-side down first to allow for crispy skin!
- Use a timer! Cook the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on the first side before flipping. They often only need 3-4 minutes on the other side.
- If using the oven, check at about 10 minutes to ensure it’s cooked but not overdone. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
With these tips and ingredient swaps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to impress friends and family!
Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime, plus lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salmon with mango salsa takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook if baking, or about 8-9 minutes if grilling. In total, you can have this flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preparing your grill for medium-high heat. This ensures that your cooking surface is hot and ready to go when you add the salmon.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps to get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Cooking the Salmon:
If using a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if they have skin), and let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp. Then, gently flip the salmon and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If baking, place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
4. Make the Mango Salsa:
While the salmon is cooking, let’s whip up the mango salsa! In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), red onion, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and gently toss everything together. Add a pinch of salt to taste—this really brings out the flavors!
5. Assemble and Serve:
Once your salmon is cooked to perfection, plate each fillet and generously spoon the mango salsa over the top. To make it extra pretty, garnish with additional cilantro and a couple of lime wedges on the side.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your vibrant salmon dish immediately, alongside your choice of sides like rice, quinoa, or a refreshing mixed greens salad. It’s a colorful meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at!
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant Salmon with Mango Salsa!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen salmon before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water. Pat it dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Mango?
If mango isn’t available, try using pineapple or peach for a similar sweetness. Canned mango (drained) can also work in a pinch!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want a milder salsa, simply omit the jalapeño. Alternatively, you can add just a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat without overwhelming the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon and Salsa?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the salsa separate to maintain its freshness. Reheat salmon gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat!
