Meet your new go-to party appetizer: Tropical Mango Salsa. This vibrant dish marries sweet, juicy mangos with a touch of heat from jalapeños, creating a refreshing burst of flavor perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or just want to add some flair to your weeknight dinner, this salsa is a must-try.
Mangos bring the sweet, juicy base to this salsa. Make sure they're ripe but still firm for the best texture. The red bell pepper adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of color. Red onion provides a sharp, savory contrast to the sweet mango, while jalapeño introduces a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking. Fresh cilantro brings a burst of herby freshness, and the lime juice ties everything together with its tangy brightness. A touch of salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors perfectly.
This mango salsa pairs beautifully with grilled fish or chicken, adding a bright contrast to the smoky flavors. It's also fantastic as a topping for tacos or as a dip with tortilla chips. For a light lunch, try it over a bed of greens with some avocado.
Start by grabbing a large bowl and adding in your diced mango. Make sure the pieces are bite-sized — nobody wants to wrestle with giant chunks of fruit! Next, toss in the finely chopped red bell pepper and red onion. These should be cut small enough to blend seamlessly with the mango.
Add the minced jalapeño and chopped cilantro to your bowl. If you're worried about the heat, start with half the jalapeño and add more if desired. Now, squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. This step is crucial, as the lime juice not only enhances the flavors but also helps to meld them together.
Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it out, so start with a little and adjust according to taste. Gently toss all the ingredients until everything is well combined and coated in that lovely lime juice.
At this point, taste your salsa and adjust any seasonings if needed. You can serve it right away, or for an even better flavor experience, cover and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.