Mango Salsa Salmon: A Taste of Summer

Quick-Answer Summary Line: A vibrant Mango Salsa Salmon that brings the taste of summer to your fall table.

Format: Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Pan-searing · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

H2: Quick Answer: Sear salmon fillets until crispy, top with fresh mango salsa, and serve for a delightful meal.

Introduction: As the vibrant hues of autumn take over the streets of New York City, I find myself gravitating toward dishes that capture the essence of this beautiful season. Enter my Mango Salsa Salmon, a delightful symphony of flavors that transports me to sun-drenched beaches, even when the weather outside is brisk and cool. This dish is the perfect kiss of tropical sweetness to balance out the hearty comfort foods we often relish during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Contextual H2: A Flavorful Autumn Dish

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Bright and colorful dish that brings a touch of summer to your table.
• Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with the fresh mango salsa.
• Quick and easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy option packed with omega-3s from salmon and vitamins from fresh ingredients.
• Versatile and can be paired with various sides for different occasions.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Mango Salsa Salmon:

For the Salmon

• 4 fillets of salmon (fresh, skin-on preferably)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mango Salsa

• 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt, to taste

How to Make Mango Salsa Salmon (Step-by-Step)

This recipe is quick to prepare, and the vibrant flavors will certainly impress! Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start with fresh fillets of salmon, rinsing them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp texture. Generously season each fillet with salt and pepper, allowing them to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.

Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa

In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño. Drizzle the lime juice over the mixture for a zesty aroma, then add fresh cilantro and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to mash the mango.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them to achieve that perfect crispy skin.

Step 4: Flip and Finish

Carefully flip each fillet using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, checking for a slight jiggle in the center to ensure it's perfectly tender.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the salmon and generously top each fillet with a scoop of fresh mango salsa. For added creaminess, you can include some avocado slices. A squeeze of lime juice adds delightful brightness to the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Overripe Mango: Ensure your mango is ripe but still firm to maintain a pleasant texture in your salsa.
• Not Preheating the Skillet: A hot pan is crucial for achieving that desirable sear and crispy skin on your salmon.
• Crowding the Pan: When cooking the salmon, avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Make Ahead: The salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.
• Pairing: This dish pairs stunningly with a side of coconut rice or a simple mixed salad, making it versatile for casual dinners and festive gatherings.
• Salmon Alternatives: Substitute the salmon with another fish like snapper or trout, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Variations

• Substitute mango with pineapple for a different tropical flavor.
• Add diced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch in the salsa.
• Incorporate black beans for added protein and fiber.

How to Serve

• Top the salmon fillets generously with fresh mango salsa.
• Serve with avocado slices for a creamy texture enhancement.
• Squeeze extra lime juice for added brightness before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: The salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.
• Storage: Leftover Mango Salsa Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a low oven-this helps maintain the tender texture of the fish without overcooking it.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for the salsa as the texture of the mango may change upon thawing.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

I discovered that the fresh and fruity notes of the salsa complement the rich and buttery salmon in a way I hadn't anticipated, creating a delightful contrast that excites the palate. This dish isn't just a recipe; it's an experience that brings a slice of summertime to the table, even when the leaves are falling.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 fillet with salsa

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 12g carbs · 20g fat

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