Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

Name: Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I love making grilled salmon with mango salsa because it truly captures the taste of summer. It’s vibrant, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. The sweetness of the mango perfectly complements the savory flavor of the salmon, creating a delicious balance that’s hard to resist. This recipe came together after experimenting with different fruit salsas, and each bite transports me to a sunny beach. Trust me, once you try this dish, it'll become a staple for your summer barbecues.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:40:22.511Z

When I first tried combining grilled salmon with mango salsa, it was a game changer for me. The sweet and tangy notes of the salsa enhance the richness of the fish, making it a match made in culinary heaven. I still remember the day I grilled the salmon to perfection, achieving that smoky flavor that paired beautifully with the fresh salsa.

This dish isn't just about taste; it’s about the experience of bright flavors that pop on your palate. I recommend letting the mango salsa sit for about 10 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Healthy and packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is essential in the Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa recipe. The ripe mango not only provides sweetness but also a bright, tropical flavor that enhances the salmon's natural richness. Make sure to choose a mango that gives slightly when pressed, indicating its ripeness. A dull, unripe mango will diminish the overall dish, making it less vibrant and flavorful.

The freshness of the herbs is just as important. For the salsa, freshly chopped cilantro adds aroma and a crisp taste that ties the dish together. If you're not a cilantro fan, you can substitute with fresh parsley, but be aware it will alter the flavor profile. Aim for the freshest ingredients possible; this is a key factor in elevating your dish.

Grilling Perfection

Grilling the salmon requires attention to heat management. For the best results, preheat your grill to medium-high, which should be around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and achieves a nice sear on the outside while remaining tender inside. Overheating can cause the salmon to dry out, so keep a close eye while it cooks.

Another tip when grilling is to use a fish spatula, which is specifically designed to lift delicate fish fillets without breaking them apart. If you’re having trouble with sticking, spray your grill grates lightly with oil before placing the salmon down, and avoid moving them too soon; they’ll release naturally when they're ready to be flipped.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir gently and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Prepare the Salmon

Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.

Grill the Salmon

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the salmon fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky.

Serve

Plate the grilled salmon and top each fillet with a generous amount of mango salsa. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Make sure your grill is preheated to avoid sticking. You can substitute the mango with pineapple for a tropical twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

The mango salsa can be made up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just hold off on adding the lime juice until you're ready to serve to prevent the mango from turning mushy. Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a gentle stir before topping your grilled salmon.

For the salmon, if you're prepping for a busy week, marinate the fillets in olive oil and lemon juice a few hours beforehand. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the fish moist during grilling. Just remember to let the salmon come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While grilled salmon and mango salsa make a fantastic pairing, you can jazz up your presentation by serving it on a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. The grains provide a nutty base that balances the dish while soaking up the delicious juices from the salsa. For a more festive touch, consider garnishing with additional lime wedges and fresh cilantro.

For variations, feel free to experiment with fruits to create a flavorful salsa. Pineapple or peach can be great alternatives to mango, bringing different levels of sweetness and acidity to the dish. Just ensure any fruit you choose is ripe, as this freshness is what enhances the overall appeal of the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

→ Is there a way to prepare this dish in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes.

→ What can I serve with grilled salmon and mango salsa?

It pairs beautifully with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque.