Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl

Name: Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 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; Cooked rice or quinoa; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Bowls

I absolutely love making this Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl on warm evenings when I crave something light yet satisfying. The combination of perfectly pan-seared salmon with a refreshing mango salsa always brightens my day. The colorful ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that’s not only visually appealing but packed with flavors. I often use fresh herbs from my garden, which elevates the salsa even further. Each bite is a promise of summer, and it’s the ideal meal for a fun gathering or an intimate dinner at home.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-17T15:02:19.209Z

This Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during summer months. After trying various salsa combinations, I've found that pairing sweet mango with zesty lime and fresh cilantro creates the perfect contrast to the rich salmon. The first time I served it at a barbecue, I was amazed by how quickly it disappeared!

I’ve also experimented with grilling the salmon instead of pan-searing, which adds a delightful smoky flavor. A quick tip: let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to enhance its tenderness and juiciness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors
Freshness from homemade mango salsa
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using the freshest ingredients in this Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl significantly enhances the overall flavor. Fresh mangoes bring a natural sweetness and juiciness that frozen or canned mangoes simply cannot replicate. When selecting a ripe mango, look for one that gives slightly when gently pressed and has a sweet aroma. Pairing it with fresh cilantro and lime juice brightens the dish, creating a vibrant contrast to the savory salmon.

Similarly, the quality of your salmon affects the dish’s outcome. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. When purchasing salmon, look for fillets with a moist, shiny surface and avoid any that have a strong fishy smell. If you’re unsure, ask your fishmonger for their recommendations on the freshest options available.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon is crucial for this dish. I recommend preheating your pan over medium-high heat before adding the seasoned fillets. This searing step creates a beautiful crust while keeping the inside tender. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping it when golden brown and just beginning to flake at the edges. A good tip: resist the urge to move the fillets too soon; they naturally release from the pan when the crust has formed.

If you're worried about overcooking, consider using a fish spatula to gently lift the edge of the fillet to check for doneness. Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer your salmon more tender, you might take it off the heat at 130°F and let it rest, as it will continue to cook slightly off the heat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl is delicious as is, there are many ways to enhance or modify it. For a heartier meal, consider adding black beans or corn to the bowl, which pairs well with the sweetness of the mango salsa. You can also experiment with different grains like farro or bulgur instead of rice or quinoa for a nutty flavor and chewy texture—both options are excellent sources of fiber.

If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, you could turn it into a DIY bowl assembly, allowing guests to customize their toppings with additional ingredients like avocado slices or diced tomatoes. This not only adds variety but also makes the dining experience interactive and fun. Leftover mango salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a great addition to wraps or salads later in the week.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl:

For the Salmon:

2 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

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

For Serving:

Cooked rice or quinoa
Lime wedges

Enjoy the freshness with each bite as you serve this dish warm over rice or quinoa.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl:

Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Gently toss the ingredients together and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. In a heated pan, cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky.

Assemble the Bowl

Spoon cooked rice or quinoa into bowls, place the salmon fillets on top, and generously add the mango salsa. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side.

Make sure to enjoy this vibrant dish right away for the best flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced avocado or cucumber to the salsa. Pair it with tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover salmon or mango salsa, proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and flavor. Store the salmon in an airtight container; it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked salmon, ideally in vacuum-sealed bags, for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven or skillet on low heat.

The mango salsa, however, is best enjoyed fresh but can last in the fridge for about 2-3 days. To prevent browning, make sure the container is sealed tightly, and keep it well-chilled. If you notice the salsa gets watery after a day, simply drain off the liquid before serving, or add a bit more diced mango to restore its original consistency.

Dietary Modifications

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, this Mango Salsa Salmon Bowl lends itself well to modifications. To make it gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free grains such as quinoa, which is naturally gluten-free and offers a complete protein profile. If salmon is not your favorite protein or if you're looking for a plant-based alternative, consider marinated tofu or chickpea salad, both of which pair wonderfully with the mango salsa.

Additionally, for a lighter version, swapping out the olive oil for a non-stick cooking spray while pan-searing can significantly reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor. If you're looking to lower the spice level in the mango salsa, simply omit the jalapeño or replace it with a milder pepper such as bell pepper, which still adds crunch without too much heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, frozen salmon works well too. Just make sure to properly thaw it before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for mango?

Pineapple or peach can be great alternatives for a similar sweetness.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add more jalapeño or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salmon.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can store the salmon and salsa separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.