If you are looking for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying dinner that comes together in a flash, this Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe is calling your name. The combination of perfectly seasoned grilled salmon paired with a zesty, sweet mango salsa brings together a harmony of flavors and textures that is as colorful as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the juicy salmon that provides rich, buttery flavors to the mango salsa that adds brightness and a touch of sweetness. These essentials come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s bursting with taste and freshness.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on: Skin-on helps keep the salmon moist and adds a lovely crispy texture when grilled.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For keeping the salmon from sticking and aiding the spices in forming a delicious crust.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth without the need for complicated marinating.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle pungency that complements the salmon beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning to deepen the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat to balance the sweetness of the salsa.
- 2 ripe mangos, diced: Use ripe mangos for juicy, sweet pops that brighten up the whole dish.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Gives a sharp bite and crunchy contrast to the soft mango.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a refreshing herbal note that lifts the salsa.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Provides vibrant acidity that ties all the salsa flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa
Start by peeling and dicing the mangos into small chunks to ensure every bite is bursting with sweet juiciness. Next, finely chop the red onion and cilantro—these fresh ingredients bring texture and a lively, herbaceous flavor. Combine everything in a bowl with fresh lime juice and a light pinch of salt. Setting this salsa aside lets the flavors meld into a perfect topping for the salmon.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry to help the seasoning stick well. Drizzle olive oil generously on both sides, then rub with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mix of spices infuses an irresistible aroma and flavor that perfectly complements the natural richness of the salmon.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. This step is crucial to prevent the salmon from sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks that make this dish so visually appealing.
Step 4: Grill the Salmon
Place the salmon on the grill skin-side down. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Watching the salmon as it cooks will help you catch it at the perfect moment of tenderness and juiciness.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Transfer the salmon fillets to serving plates and generously spoon the vibrant mango salsa on top. If you like a little extra zing, serve with lime wedges on the side. This is your beautifully easy grilled salmon with mango salsa recipe ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of extra chopped cilantro or a light drizzle of additional lime juice right before serving. Thin slices of avocado or a handful of toasted pepitas add a wonderful creaminess and crunch respectively.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines alongside simple sides like a crisp green salad, steamed jasmine rice, or grilled vegetables. Each choice complements without overpowering the delicate flavors of the salmon and salsa, making your meal a balanced and satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive touch, serve the salmon fillets atop a bed of mixed greens or inside butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, hand-held experience. You can even turn this into a delightful taco filling by flaking the salmon and using the mango salsa as a colorful topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover salmon and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the textures and flavors fresh for up to two days, perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner the next day.
Freezing
Salmon tends to lose some texture when frozen and thawed, but you can freeze cooked fillets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. The mango salsa is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid freezing it to maintain its bright texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftover salmon gently in a low oven or covered in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent drying out. Add the salsa fresh after reheating to preserve its vibrant, juicy qualities and keep the dish tasting like new.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning and grilling. This ensures the fish cooks evenly and maintains its delicious texture.
What can I substitute for mango in the salsa?
If mangos are out of season or not your favorite, diced peaches or pineapples make fantastic alternatives that still provide that lovely sweet and tangy balance.
Is it necessary to keep the salmon skin on while grilling?
Keeping the skin on helps protect the delicate flesh from sticking and drying out on the grill. Plus, it crisps up nicely, adding a delightful texture contrast. You can remove it before eating if preferred.
How spicy is this Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe?
This recipe leans towards fresh and mildly seasoned rather than spicy, making it approachable for most palates. You can add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño to the salsa for some heat if you like more spice.
Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. This actually helps the flavors meld nicely. Just give it a quick stir and a taste before serving to adjust the seasoning as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe is a wonderful way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of smoky, tender salmon and sweet, tangy salsa is truly irresistible. I hope you give it a try soon—once you do, it might just become your new favorite go-to meal!
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Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa recipe features perfectly grilled salmon fillets seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, topped with a fresh and vibrant mango salsa. It’s a quick, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for summer grilling.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Mango Salsa
- 2 ripe mangos, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Mango Salsa: Peel and dice the mango into small chunks. Finely chop the red onion and cilantro. Combine all these ingredients in a bowl with lime juice and a pinch of salt. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Season Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil evenly on both sides of each fillet. Rub each piece thoroughly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to ensure even seasoning.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is opaque throughout and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled salmon to plates, spoon the prepared mango salsa generously on top, and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with lime wedges for extra zest.
Notes
- Make sure the grill grates are well oiled to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- Adjust grilling time based on the thickness of salmon fillets to avoid overcooking.
- Mango salsa can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 hours for flavor enhancement.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in the salsa.
- Skin-on salmon helps keep the fish moist on the grill and prevents it from falling apart.
