This bright and delicious salmon dish is super easy to make! The fish is perfectly cooked and paired with fresh mango salsa that adds a fruity kick. Yum!
I love how the sweet and tangy salsa gives the salmon a burst of flavor. It’s like a mini tropical vacation on your plate! 🌴 Enjoy this with rice or a fresh salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is great, but you can also use frozen fillets if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw them properly beforehand for even cooking.
Olive Oil: A staple in many kitchens! If you don’t have it, avocado oil works well too. It has a mild flavor and a high smoking point.
Mango: For a sweeter salsa, use ripe mango. If mango isn’t in season, try using pineapple or papaya for a similar texture and taste.
Jalapeño: If you want to spice things up, keep the seeds in. For less heat, remove them or substitute with a milder pepper like a bell pepper.
Cilantro: If cilantro’s not your favorite, fresh parsley can be a great substitute, providing freshness without the strong taste.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon Every Time?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it perfect! Start by bringing your salmon to room temperature before cooking this helps it cook evenly. When placing it in the skillet:
- Set your heat to medium-high to get a nice sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the salmon skin-side down for crispiness if it has skin. It helps hold moisture in.
- Watch for color change: It will lighten from translucent to opaque! Cook until it easily flakes with a fork.
Letting it rest for a minute before serving helps keep it juicy. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Salmon:
Start by mixing the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This seasoning adds a wonderful flavor to the salmon. Then, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and rub olive oil all over them. Lastly, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the salmon to coat.
2. Cooking the Salmon:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes without moving it. Then, carefully flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Make sure not to overcook!
3. Making the Mango Salsa:
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the mango salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss gently to mix all the flavors together. This fresh salsa adds a delightful tropical twist!
4. Serving:
Once the salmon is done, serve each fillet topped generously with the fresh mango salsa. This dish is best enjoyed right away, and it goes perfectly with a side of rice or a crisp salad if you like. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe beautifully pairs the rich, savory flavor of salmon with the bright, tangy mango salsa for an easy and refreshing meal that you’ll love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking for even cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for Mango in the Salsa?
If mango isn’t available, you can use chopped pineapple or diced papaya as delicious substitutes! Both will give you that sweet and fruity flavor, perfect for complementing the salmon.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, be gentle to avoid overcooking the salmon. You can warm it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring the salsa separately.
Can I Prepare the Mango Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. If you’re making it a day in advance, consider adding the lime juice right before serving to keep the flavors bright!
