Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

Name: Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lime, juiced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of this Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa! The combination of tender, flaky salmon and the fresh sweetness of mango creates a dish that's not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Preparing this recipe transforms my ordinary weeknights into an extraordinary culinary experience. The bright colors and exotic flavors make it perfect for sharing with family and friends. I can't wait to show you how simple it is to bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:52:23.113Z

When I first tried making grilled salmon with mango salsa, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how fresh it tasted. The marinade gives the salmon a subtle tang, while the salsa adds a burst of sweetness and color. To enhance the flavor, I like to let the salmon rest in the marinade for at least 10 minutes before grilling. This small step really elevates the taste!

Over time, I’ve experimented with different fruits in the salsa, but mango remains my favorite for its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Whether I'm cooking for myself or hosting a gathering, this dish always impresses. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a light salad or rice, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon

The Best Salmon for Grilling

When selecting salmon for grilling, look for fillets that are vibrant in color and moist to the touch. Wild-caught salmon, like king or sockeye, offers a richer flavor and firmer texture, making it ideal for high-heat grilling. I recommend choosing fillets with skin on; it helps to keep them from drying out and provides a delicious crispy texture during cooking.

If you're concerned about sustainability or sourcing, you can choose farmed salmon, which is often more affordable. Just ensure it's sourced from responsible farms. In any case, fresh salmon should have a clean ocean scent and no signs of browning or drying.

Importance of Mango Salsa

The mango salsa not only complements the salmon but also adds a fresh contrast that enhances the overall meal. Mango brings a natural sweetness that's balanced by the tartness of lime juice. This salsa is a delightful way to incorporate fruit into savory dishes and offers a colorful pop of texture. For added versatility, try using pineapple or papaya instead of mango for a different flavor profile.

Another key player in the salsa is the jalapeño, which provides a gentle heat that elevates the dish without overpowering it. Be sure to taste and adjust the heat level according to your preference. If you find fresh jalapeños too spicy, you can substitute them with a milder pepper such as a green bell pepper or leave them out entirely.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Salmon

To achieve perfectly grilled salmon, ensure your grill grates are well-oiled before placing the fillets on them. This helps prevent sticking and allows for those beautiful grill marks. It’s important to monitor the temperature closely; medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, is ideal. If the salmon starts to curl or dry out too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow for even cooking.

For the best results, use a fish spatula to gently turn the salmon instead of traditional spatulas. This tool is designed to slide under the delicate fillets without breaking them apart. Remember, don’t flip your salmon too soon; wait until it releases naturally from the grill, which typically takes about 5 minutes per side.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lime, juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa

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

Instructions

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon fillets, turning to coat. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and set aside.

Grill the Salmon

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated salmon for about 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Plate the grilled salmon and top with the fresh mango salsa. Enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add diced avocado to the mango salsa. Serve with lime wedges on the side to enhance the flavors even more!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair the grilled salmon with a side of coconut rice or quinoa to absorb the vibrant flavors of the mango salsa. You can also add a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the fish. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience.

Don’t hesitate to serve the salmon over a bed of grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful presentation. This not only adds variety but increases the nutritional value of your meal.

Make-Ahead Potential

The mango salsa can be prepared in advance, making it a great time-saver. Just mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, enhancing the salsa's taste by the time you’re ready to serve it.

If you want to pre-marinate the salmon, feel free to do so up to 30 minutes ahead of grilling. Just keep it covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness. However, avoid marinating for too long, as the acidity from the lime juice can begin to 'cook' the fish, affecting its texture.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover grilled salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to wrap it tightly to retain moisture. It’s best enjoyed cold, so consider using it in salads, or make salmon tacos with the leftover salsa for a quick lunch.

To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 275°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the salmon rubbery and compromise its delicate texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What other fruits can I use in the salsa?

Pineapple and peach are great alternatives to mango.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I make the salsa in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead of time - just refrigerate it until ready to serve.