Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

This Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa is the ultimate summer dinner—perfectly grilled salmon fillets with a smoky, savory crust, topped with a bright, tropical mango salsa that bursts with freshness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. The salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and cooks to flaky perfection on the grill, while the salsa—featuring ripe mangoes, red bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, and fresh lime—adds a sweet, spicy, and tangy contrast that elevates every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or wanting to impress dinner guests, this vibrant, data-backed recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Serve with coconut rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

 

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.