This easy salmon dish is a winner! It’s juicy and flaky, topped with a fresh mango salsa that adds a sweet and zesty touch. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Making this salmon is a breeze. Just grill or bake it, mix up the salsa, and voilà! I love how the bright flavors of mango cheer up any meal—plus, it’s a colorful feast for the eyes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal, but if it’s not available, frozen salmon works just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. I usually go for the wild-caught variety for its flavor and sustainability benefits!
Mango: Ripe mango adds sweetness, but if you can’t find it, try using pineapple or peach instead. Canned mango is also an option if fresh is out of season, just drain it well.
Avocado: For creaminess, fresh avocado is perfect, but you can skip it if you’re not a fan or use a diced cucumber for a crunchy texture instead. Lemon juice can be a good substitute for lime in a pinch.
Jalapeño: If you want mild heat, skip the jalapeño or use a bell pepper instead. If you love spicy, consider adding more or using a habanero in smaller amounts!
How Do I Get That Salmon Just Right?
The key to perfectly cooked salmon is getting the timing right. Overcooking can dry it out, so aim for a flaky but moist texture. Here are some tips:
- For the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C). Salmon typically takes 10-12 minutes.
- If using a grill, 4-5 minutes per side is usually enough. Look for a nice sear on the outside!
- Check for doneness by gently pressing the salmon with a fork; it should flake easily but still look a bit moist.
Letting it rest for a couple of minutes before serving helps keep it juicy. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Fresh Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 medium avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for a spicy kick)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes around 15 minutes of prep time and about 10-12 minutes to cook. You’ll have a fresh and flavorful meal ready in just about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you prefer grilling, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Either method works well for cooking the salmon to perfection!
2. Spice Up the Salmon:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious spice rub. Rub this mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure every piece gets a nice coating.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or onto your hot grill pan. If you’re using the oven, allow it to bake for about 10-12 minutes. If grilling, cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has a nice golden color!
4. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
While the salmon is cooking, it’s time to make that fresh mango salsa! In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, avocado, red onion, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeño (if you like it spicy).
5. Mix the Salsa:
Drizzle the salsa with lime juice and honey, then give it a gentle toss to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. This fresh salsa adds a perfect zesty kick to the salmon!
6. Serve It Up:
Once the salmon is done cooking, remove it from the oven or grill and serve each fillet topped generously with the vibrant mango salsa. The combination of flavors will have your taste buds dancing!
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant and flavorful salmon with fresh mango salsa! This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice or a refreshing mix of greens.
Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat it dry before seasoning for the best results!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and mango salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The salmon will be good for up to 2 days, while the salsa is best eaten within a day for freshness. Reheat the salmon gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Prepare the Mango Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge, but add the avocado and lime juice right before serving to prevent browning and maintain its freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Mango?
If you can’t find ripe mango, use diced pineapple or peach for a similar sweetness and texture. Canned peaches or mango can also work; just make sure to drain and pat them dry before mixing into your salsa.
