Mango salsa is a vibrant and tasty addition to many dishes. It plays well with grilled meats, adding a fresh twist to chicken, pork, or fish. Imagine a juicy piece of grilled chicken topped with a rich, fruity salsa
Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s essential to use fresh produce for vibrant flavors. Look for ripe mangoes that yield gently to pressure. The color should be bright with a hint of golden yellow.
Step 2: Dice the Mango
Peel the mangoes and cut around the pit. The flesh should come away without much effort. Dice the mango into small, even cubes. Aim for about half-inch pieces. This ensures each spoonful has a nice mix of flavors.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
Dice the red bell pepper and red onion finely. The bell pepper adds a sweet crunch to the salsa. Meanwhile, the onion delivers a sharpness that complements the sweetness of the mango.
Step 4: Mince the Jalapeño
If you’re looking for some heat, mince the jalapeño. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor. This step is crucial for controlling the spice level in your salsa.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss gently with a spatula. This is where you start to see the beautiful colors blend.
Step 6: Add Lime Juice and Honey
Now, squeeze the juice of one lime over your salsa. Make sure to include the zest too! The zest elevates the lime flavor. Then, drizzle in the honey. Mix everything together again, tasting as you go. Adjust the salt if needed.
Step 7: Chill
Let your salsa sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together. Plus, it cools the salsa, making it more refreshing.
Notes
Use ripe mangoes: Ripeness is key to achieving the best flavor. Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch.
Finely chop all ingredients: Uniform size helps in pairing the flavors evenly. No one wants a huge clump of onion!
Adjust the heat: Control your spice by adjusting the amount of jalapeño. Tofu also works well if you want it more subtle.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro is essential. Dried herbs won't provide the same freshness.
Experiment: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced avocado, pineapple, or even black beans for added texture.