Did you know that mangoes are the most eaten fruit in the world? I love turning them into a bright, tangy salsa that’s perfect for summer. The mix of sweet mango, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro creates a flavor explosion, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re topping grilled fish or scooping it up with chips, this salsa always steals the show. Want to know the secret to balancing the flavors just right?
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This vibrant mango salsa recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. It’s quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Bright and fresh ingredients create a burst of tropical goodness in every bite.
Easy to customize with your preferred level of spice or additional fruits and herbs.
Versatile accompaniment, perfect for chips, grilled fish, or as a topping for tacos and salads.
Recipe
Mango salsa is a vibrant and invigorating dish that combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the tanginess of lime and the heat of chili peppers. It’s perfect as a dip, topping for grilled fish or chicken, or even as a side salad.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Notes:
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spice level.
- For added texture, include diced avocado just before serving.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cooking Time: 0 minutes, Serving: 4, Calories: 70 per serving, Cuisine: Mexican-inspired.
Equipment
Preparing mango salsa requires minimal equipment and is quick to assemble. Make sure to have the following items ready for a smooth cooking experience.
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
Nutrition
Mango salsa is a vibrant and nutritious addition to any meal, combining sweet and tangy flavors. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it’s as healthy as it is delicious.
- High in vitamin C, boosting immunity and skin health.
- Rich in vitamin A, supporting vision and cell growth.
- Contains dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
- Low in calories, making it a great option for weight management.
- Includes antioxidants that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing mango salsa with grilled fish dishes because the sweetness balances the smoky flavors perfectly. It’s also a fantastic taco filling, adding a fresh twist to your favorite tortilla creations. Don’t forget to serve it with chips, on top of salads, or alongside barbecue meats for a burst of tropical flavor.
Grilled Fish Dishes
When I’m grilling fish, I love pairing it with something fresh and vibrant, like mango salsa, to balance out the smoky flavors. Grilled salmon is my go-to—it’s rich and flaky, and the salsa adds a sweet, tangy kick. For a fun twist, I’ll make fish tacos, layering the salsa on top for a burst of flavor. It’s simple, delicious, and feels like a mini escape on my plate.
Taco Filling Options
Tacos are like a blank canvas—you can pile them high with almost anything you love. I’m all about mixing it up, so I’ll layer mine with mango salsa, crunchy taco toppings like shredded cabbage or jalapeños, and even meat alternatives like black beans or roasted veggies. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion every time. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Chips and Dips
A great mango salsa deserves the perfect partner, and that’s where chips and dips come in. I love pairing it with crispy tortilla chips—they’re sturdy enough to scoop up every bite. For salsa variations, try adding avocado or jalapeños for extra flair. Don’t forget the mango benefits, like its sweet, juicy flavor and vitamin boost. It’s a combo that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Salad Topping Ideas
While chips and dips are a classic match for mango salsa, I’ve found it’s just as amazing when used to jazz up a salad. Swap out traditional salad dressings for this vibrant topping—it adds a burst of flavor to greens, quinoa, or even grain bowls. Pair it with crunchy salad toppings like toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, or avocado slices for a fresh, tropical twist that feels freeing and fun.
Barbecue Meat Pairings
If you’re firing up the grill, mango salsa makes an unexpected but fantastic companion to barbecue meats. I love pairing it with grilled chicken marinated in lime and garlic, or smoky pork ribs brushed with a tangy glaze. Experiment with grilling techniques like indirect heat for tender results. The salsa’s sweetness balances bold meat marinades, adding a fresh twist to every bite. It’s a match made in barbecue heaven!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Cilantro With Another Herb?
I’d absolutely substitute cilantro with another herb if it’s not my thing. For herb substitutions, I’d try parsley or basil—they keep it fresh while letting me play with flavor variations that suit my taste better.
Is There a Way to Make This Salsa Less Spicy?
I once made salsa too spicy for my friends, so I focused on mango ripeness—using super sweet ones balances heat. For spice alternatives, I skip jalapeños or use bell peppers instead—it’s always a hit.
How Long Does Mango Salsa Last in the Fridge?
I store my salsa in the fridge to keep it fresh, and it usually lasts about 3 to 5 days. For the best freshness duration, I make sure it’s sealed tightly and check for any off smells.
Can I Use Frozen Mango Instead of Fresh?
Funny you ask—I just swapped fresh mango for frozen last week. Frozen mango works great if you’re in a pinch; just thaw and pat dry so your salsa doesn’t get watery. Taste’s almost like fresh mango!
What Type of Lime Works Best for This Recipe?
Persian limes are my go-to for their bold, tangy flavor, but I’ll swap in key limes if I’m craving something zippier and more aromatic. Either works—it’s about the freedom to tailor the taste to my mood.
