Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish. However, if you can’t find it, you can use trout or even tilapia. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may differ.

Mango: Ripe mango adds sweetness. If you can’t find mango, try using pineapple or peach for sweetness and a bit of tartness as well.

Jalapeño: This adds a spicy kick. If you prefer milder salsa, feel free to skip it or use a bell pepper instead. It’ll still taste delicious without the heat!

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives great flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use parsley or mint instead. Each adds its unique twist to the dish!

How Do You Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking salmon so it stays tender and juicy can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:

• Start with a dry surface. Pat fillets with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps create a crispy skin.
• Use medium-high heat. It’s essential for searing the outside while keeping the inside flaky.
• Don’t rush the flip. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes for a nice crust. Flip gently and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
• Check for doneness. The salmon should feel firm yet tender and flake easily with a fork.

With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon every time!

Salmon With Fresh Mango Salsa

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking salmon)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for salsa)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking. Altogether, you’ll be ready to enjoy your fresh salmon and mango salsa in just about 30 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:

Start by making your mango salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you want some spice), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and the tablespoon of olive oil. Mix everything gently so you don’t mash the mango, then cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to let the flavors mingle while you cook the salmon.

2. Season the Salmon:

Grab the salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice crisp finish. Sprinkle both sides of each fillet with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that wonderful flavor.

3. Cook the Salmon:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, so they get a gorgeous crust. Once they are nice and golden, flip the fillets and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until they are cooked through and flaky.

4. Serve and Garnish:

Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, carefully transfer each fillet to a serving plate. Spoon the refreshing mango salsa generously over each piece. If you like, add some extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Enjoy your tasty salmon with fresh mango salsa! The combination of smoky salmon and sweet, zesty salsa is truly delightful!

Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?

Absolutely! If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to place it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. For a quicker method, you can put it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.

What Should I Do If I Don’t Like Mango?

No problem! If mango isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with diced pineapple, peach, or even kiwi for a sweet twist. Each fruit brings a unique flavor that complements the salmon beautifully!

Can I Make the Salsa in Advance?

Yes, you can! Prepare the mango salsa up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.

How Can I Tell When the Salmon is Done Cooking?

Perfectly cooked salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque in color. You can also use a food thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If it’s slightly translucent in the center, it’s okay to remove it from the heat and let it rest, as it will continue to cook a little bit more!