BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe
If you’re craving something that perfectly balances smoky, sweet, and fresh flavors, this BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy salmon fillets grilled to perfection, slathered in a smoky BBQ glaze, and topped with a zesty, creamy salsa bursting with mango and avocado goodness. It’s like summer on a plate, effortlessly combining vibrant colors and textures that awaken your taste buds and nourish your body. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers a satisfying and stylish meal every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started is a breeze with this straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the smoky depth of the salmon and the bright, creamy freshness of the salsa, making sure every bite is a harmonious celebration of flavors.
- 4 salmon fillets: Choose fresh, thick cuts for the best flaky texture and rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps keep the salmon moist and adds a smooth fruity note.
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce: Pick your favorite variety to infuse that signature smoky-sweet taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a warm, earthy smokiness that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances depth with subtle garlicky undertones without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the salmon and salsa ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the overall seasoning.
- 1 ripe mango, diced: Sweet and juicy, it provides vibrant color and tropical flair to the salsa.
- 1 ripe avocado, diced: Creamy texture tames the heat and adds richness.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped: Gives a sharp crunch and a hint of pungency for contrast.
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced: Offers just enough heat to wake up your palate without overwhelming it.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped: Infuses a fresh, citrusy herbaceousness that lifts the salsa.
- Juice of 1 lime: The acidity brightens and perfectly ties all salsa flavors together.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and acidity in the salsa for a well-rounded bite.
How to Make BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Glaze and Season Salmon
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse that ensures each salmon fillet is coated with smoky, savory goodness. Brush this glaze generously on both sides of the salmon fillets—don’t be shy, every layer counts!
Step 2: Grill the Salmon
Heat your grill or a stovetop grill pan to medium-high. Place the BBQ-glazed salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. You want that gorgeous charred crust sealing in the juicy tenderness while locking in those delicious flavors. Once done, remove from heat and let the fillets rest for at least 2 minutes—that rest time helps the juices redistribute, making every bite succulent.
Step 3: Whip Up the Mango Avocado Salsa
While the salmon is grilling, toss together the diced mango, avocado, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Gently stir to combine so the flavors meld beautifully without mashing the avocado. This fresh salsa is the perfect cooling contrast to the smoky salmon, adding vibrant texture and zest.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Place each grilled salmon fillet on a serving plate and crown generously with mango avocado salsa. The bright colors and irresistible aroma make it almost too pretty to eat—but trust me, you’ll want to dive right in!
How to Serve BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra fresh kick, sprinkle some additional chopped cilantro or thinly sliced green onions over the top. A few lime wedges on the side invite everyone to customize their tanginess. If you like a bit of crunch, a scattering of toasted pumpkin seeds adds a delightful texture.
Side Dishes
This BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe shines even brighter alongside light and complementary sides. Think fluffy coconut rice to soak up the juices, crisp grilled asparagus for some earthiness, or a leafy green salad tossed in citrus vinaigrette to keep the meal bright and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
We love plating this dish on vibrant ceramic or wooden boards to highlight those gorgeous salsa colors. For a casual twist, serve the salmon atop toasted baguette slices like an open-faced sandwich. Or roll it up in warm tortillas with a little extra salsa and greens for a portable, fresh salmon taco experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooked salmon in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store the mango avocado salsa separately to maintain its fresh texture and vibrant color.
Freezing
While salmon freezes well, the salsa does not freeze gracefully due to the avocado and mango. Freeze cooked salmon fillets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftover salmon gently in a low oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying it out. Add fresh mango avocado salsa just before serving to preserve its fresh, zesty character.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely in the fridge before marinating and grilling to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I bake the salmon instead?
Definitely. Bake the salmon at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes until it flakes easily. You can brush the BBQ glaze on before baking and again at the end for that rich flavor.
How spicy is the mango avocado salsa?
It’s mildly spicy thanks to the seeded and minced jalapeño, but you can adjust the heat by leaving seeds in or adding a dash of hot sauce according to your preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Both the grilled salmon and mango avocado salsa are naturally gluten-free, making this meal great for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I prepare the salsa a few hours in advance?
Yes, but for the best taste and color, prepare the salsa shortly before serving. If you need to make it early, store it tightly covered in the fridge and stir gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe is one of those dishes that feels effortless yet looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The combination of smoky, sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors works in perfect harmony, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it your signature summer dinner. So fire up that grill and treat yourself to a plate of sunshine tonight!
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BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This BBQ Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and healthy main course perfect for summer dinners. Tender grilled salmon fillets are brushed with a smoky BBQ sauce and complemented by a fresh, zesty salsa made from ripe mango, creamy avocado, and a hint of jalapeño for a bright and flavorful dish that’s gluten-free and pescatarian-friendly.
Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Mango Avocado Salsa
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the salmon fillets.
- Prepare the BBQ Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Brush Salmon with BBQ Sauce: Generously brush the salmon fillets with the prepared BBQ marinade on both sides to ensure they are well coated.
- Grill the Salmon: Place the fillets on the preheated grill. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until the salmon is cooked through and has nice char marks.
- Make the Mango Avocado Salsa: While the salmon cooks, combine diced mango, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Gently toss to combine everything evenly.
- Rest the Salmon: Once cooked, remove salmon from the grill and allow it to rest for 2 minutes to retain juices.
- Serve: Plate each salmon fillet and spoon a generous amount of mango avocado salsa on top before serving for a fresh, tangy contrast to the smoky fish.
Notes
- If grilling isn’t available, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes as an alternative cooking method.
- For a spicier salsa, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce to the salsa mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
