Ingredients
For the Grilled Salmon:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced into ¼-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (seeds removed for less heat)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the mango salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red bell pepper, red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the top and add a pinch of salt. Gently stir everything together until well combined. Set aside for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Clean the grates thoroughly with a wire brush, then lightly oil them with a paper towel dipped in a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels—this is key for crispy skin and good grill marks. Rub each fillet with olive oil, then season generously on all sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes without moving. The salmon will release easily from the grates when it’s ready to flip. Flip carefully using a thin spatula and cook for another 2-4 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 135-145°F.
- Rest and serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for 1-2 minutes. Place each fillet on a plate and top generously with the fresh mango salsa. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised: Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor and higher omega-3 content, but farm-raised is more forgiving to cook and often more affordable. Both work beautifully.
- Mango Ripeness: Choose mangoes that are fragrant and yield slightly to pressure. If your mangoes are a bit tart, add a small drizzle of honey or agave nectar to the salsa.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon continues to cook from residual heat after grilling. Aim for slightly underdone (135°F) and let it rest—it will reach the perfect temperature.
- Grill Pan Option: No outdoor grill? Use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Follow the same instructions.
- Make Ahead: You can chop all salsa ingredients up to a day ahead, but combine them with lime juice and salt just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with coconut rice, cilantro-lime quinoa, or a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers: Store leftover salmon and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy cold on salads or gently reheated.
- Spice Level: For more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne to the salmon seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
- Diet: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, High-Protein
