Mango Salsa Recipe: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make at Home
Introduction
Sweet. Tangy. A little spicy. Mango salsa is a flavor-packed, refreshing dish that instantly elevates just about any meal. Whether served with crispy tortilla chips, spooned over grilled chicken, or paired with fish tacos, it brings a tropical twist that never fails to impress. The beauty of mango salsa lies in its perfect balance of sweetness from ripe mangoes and the subtle heat from fresh chili peppers. Add a touch of lime and a handful of herbs, and you’ve got a colorful, crave-worthy side dish that brightens the entire plate.
Originally inspired by Latin American cuisine, mango salsa has become a global favorite for its versatility and ease. It can be prepared in just minutes, with no special equipment or cooking skills required. Best of all, it’s naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and loaded with nutrients.
Whether you’re prepping for a summer barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or a light appetizer for guests, mango salsa brings a fresh and fruity twist to your table. The natural sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with savory ingredients, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to shake up their menu. If you’ve never made it before, get ready to fall in love with this vibrant and healthy dish.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a breakdown of everything you need to make fresh mango salsa. Each ingredient is simple and easy to find. To help you stay informed, we’ve also included the approximate calorie count for each.
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe Mangoes | 2 large | 200 |
| Red Bell Pepper | 1 medium | 37 |
| Red Onion | ½ medium | 23 |
| Jalapeño Pepper | 1 small | 4 |
| Fresh Cilantro | ¼ cup chopped | 1 |
| Fresh Lime Juice | 2 tablespoons | 8 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Optional: Avocado | 1 medium | 240 |
Note: Calorie values are estimates and can vary slightly depending on size and ripeness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making mango salsa is quick, easy, and incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps for a flawless bowl of homemade salsa every time:
- Start with ripe mangoes
Peel the mangoes and cut the flesh away from the pit. Dice the mango into small, even cubes. The sweeter and juicier the mango, the better the flavor of your salsa. - Dice the vegetables
Finely chop the red bell pepper and red onion. These add a nice crunch and a hint of sharpness that balances the sweetness of the mango. - Chop the herbs
Roughly chop fresh cilantro. This herb brings freshness and a subtle citrus note that lifts the whole dish. - Combine everything in a bowl
In a large mixing bowl, add the mango, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. - Squeeze fresh lime juice
Drizzle lime juice over the mixture. This helps bring all the flavors together and adds a zesty brightness. - Season with salt
Sprinkle in the salt and mix everything gently. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. - Chill before serving
Let the salsa sit in the fridge for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Mango salsa is incredibly adaptable. You can tweak it to match your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.“If you enjoy Mango Salsa, you should definitely try our Mango Smoothie Casserole too!”
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and a heartier bite.
- Swap jalapeño for serrano if you want more intense heat.
- Use pineapple or papaya instead of mango for a different tropical vibe.
- Add black beans or corn to make it more filling as a side or topping.
- Try mint or basil if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
- Include cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
The best part about mango salsa is that it encourages creativity. Try mixing and matching ingredients to see what you like best.
Nutritional Information
Mango salsa is a wholesome option for those looking to eat light without compromising on flavor. Here’s a general overview of its nutritional profile per serving (about half a cup):
Low in fat and high in antioxidants, mango salsa is a smart and tasty addition to any meal.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve mango salsa in countless ways. Its unique flavor profile pairs well with both simple and complex dishes.
- As a dip with tortilla chips for a colorful party snack
- On top of grilled chicken or pork to add a burst of fruity flavor
- With fish tacos, especially grilled tilapia or mahi-mahi
- Tucked into wraps or burritos for an extra punch of freshness
- With quinoa bowls or rice for a complete meal
- Alongside roasted vegetables for added sweetness and color
A good rule of thumb: If it’s grilled or spicy, mango salsa probably makes it better.
Mango Salsa Recipe: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make at Home
Course: Blog4
servings15
minutes90–120
kcalIngredients
2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
½ medium red onion, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
½ teaspoon salt
Directions
- Peel the mangoes and cut the flesh into small cubes. Add to a mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the red bell pepper and red onion. Add them to the bowl.
- Mince the jalapeño, removing the seeds if you prefer less heat. Add to the mix.
- Chop fresh cilantro and stir it in with the other ingredients.
- Drizzle with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with salt.
- Mix everything gently to combine well.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For best flavor, use fully ripe mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and smell fragrant at the stem. If you’re adding avocado, fold it in gently at the end to avoid mushiness. This salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does mango salsa last in the fridge?
It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Can I freeze mango salsa?
Not recommended. Freezing changes the texture of the fruit and vegetables, making the salsa watery upon thawing.
Do I need to cook the ingredients?
No cooking required. Mango salsa is a raw, fresh preparation that doesn’t need any heat.
Can I use canned mangoes?
Fresh mangoes are best for flavor and texture. Canned mangoes tend to be too soft and sweet.
What type of mango is best?
Ataulfo or honey mangoes are ideal because they are naturally sweet and less fibrous.
Conclusion
Mango salsa brings bold color and bright flavor to any dish with minimal effort. It’s healthy, quick to make, and endlessly customizable. From tacos to grilled meats or a simple chips-and-dip night, this salsa adds a fresh and fruity element that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for one or prepping for a crowd, having a go-to mango salsa recipe in your back pocket is always a smart move.
