Healthy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe
Introduction
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa is a quick, healthy dish that perfectly balances smoky, tender salmon with a fresh, tangy mango salsa. Ready in just 20 minutes, it makes for a light and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño in a mixing bowl. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture, add chopped cilantro, season with salt to taste, and stir well. Set aside for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Step 2: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil and season evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Let the salmon rest while preheating the grill.
- Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F) and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and grill for another 3–4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125–130°F for medium-rare or 135–140°F for well-done.
- Step 4: Remove the salmon from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Serve the grilled salmon topped with mango salsa alongside your choice of rice, quinoa, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- Use wild-caught salmon for better flavor and texture.
- Oil the grill grates thoroughly to prevent the salmon from sticking and breaking apart.
- A digital thermometer helps avoid overcooking and ensures perfectly flaky salmon.
- Letting the salsa sit for a couple of hours enhances its flavor.
- If you don’t have a grill, bake the salmon at 400°F for 12–15 minutes or pan-sear it in olive oil for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Try different salsas like pineapple, strawberry, or avocado for a flavorful twist.
- Add extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to spice up the salsa.
Storage
Store any leftover grilled salmon and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon is best eaten within 2 days and can be reheated gently to prevent dryness. Mango salsa stays fresh for up to 2 days. For best flavor, consume the salsa chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before grilling to ensure even cooking and good texture.
How long does mango salsa last?
Mango salsa stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two days when stored in an airtight container.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can bake the salmon in the oven or pan-sear it on the stovetop for similar delicious results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The mango salsa can be prepared several hours in advance, and the salmon can be marinated ahead to deepen the flavors.
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Healthy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Healthy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa is a quick and nutritious main course that pairs smoky, perfectly grilled salmon with a fresh, tangy mango salsa. The salmon is seasoned with lime, garlic, and paprika to enhance its natural flavors, while the mango salsa adds a vibrant, sweet contrast. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal light and flavorful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Salsa: Dice the ripe mango and red bell pepper into small cubes. Finely chop the red onion and mince the jalapeño if using. Combine all mango salsa ingredients into a mixing bowl, add lime juice, cilantro, and season with salt. Stir well and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil and season evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Let the seasoned salmon rest while the grill preheats.
- Grill the Salmon: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400–450°F. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and grill for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125–130°F for medium-rare or 135–140°F for well-done. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the grilled salmon fillets and generously spoon the fresh mango salsa over the top. Serve with coconut rice, quinoa, a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted sweet potatoes for a complete and balanced meal.
Notes
- Use wild-caught salmon for better flavor and texture.
- Ensure grill grates are well oiled to prevent salmon from sticking.
- Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking; salmon should be flaky yet moist.
- Allow salmon to rest after grilling to lock in juices.
- Prepare mango salsa in advance for enhanced flavor blending.
- If no grill is available, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes or pan-sear for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Mango salsa lasts up to two days refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Caribbean, Latin American
Keywords: grilled salmon, mango salsa, healthy salmon recipe, quick dinner, Caribbean salmon, Latin American cuisine, summer recipe, fresh salsa, lime seasoned salmon
