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Are you ready to elevate your meals with a burst of flavor? Mango Cilantro Salsa offers a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and fresh tastes. In this post, I’ll guide you through easy steps to create this vibrant salsa. From picking the best ingredients to storage tips, you’ll find everything you need to whip up a dish that dazzles. Let’s dive into the world of mango and cilantro delights!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: This salsa bursts with the vibrant flavors of ripe mangoes, making it a refreshing addition to any dish.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salsa in no time, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Pairing: Whether enjoyed with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats, this salsa complements a variety of dishes beautifully.
- Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the ingredients make this salsa not only tasty but also visually appealing, elevating any table setting.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients with Measurements
– 2 ripe mangoes, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (adjust for heat preference)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 small red bell pepper, diced
Optional Ingredients
You can add a small red bell pepper for extra crunch and color. This makes the salsa even more vibrant and tasty.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have fresh mangoes, try using canned mango chunks. Just drain them well. For a milder salsa, skip the jalapeño. Instead, use a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a different twist. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, parsley can work as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, gather all your ingredients. You need ripe mangoes, a red onion, and a jalapeño. Dice two ripe mangoes into small pieces. Chop one small red onion finely. Mince one jalapeño pepper, and adjust the amount for your heat level. If you want more color, you can add a small red bell pepper, diced. Don’t forget to chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro. You want it nice and fine.
Mixing and Combining Ingredients
Now, take a large mixing bowl. Start by adding the diced mangoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and red bell pepper if you chose to add it. Next, toss in the chopped cilantro. The colors should look bright and fresh. Squeeze the juice of two limes over the mixture to add tang. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over everything. Then, gently mix the ingredients together until combined. Don’t mash the mangoes; you want to keep them in chunks.
Tips for Allowing Flavors to Meld
Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. This short wait helps all the flavors blend well. The lime juice will soften the onions and jalapeño, making them taste milder and sweeter. Before serving, taste the salsa. Add salt and pepper to fit your taste. You can always adjust the lime juice or seasoning to make it perfect. Enjoy your bright and zesty salsa!
Tips & Tricks
Adjusting Heat Levels
To adjust the heat in your Mango Cilantro Salsa, focus on the jalapeño. If you like it spicy, add more minced jalapeño. For less heat, use only half or skip it. You can also remove the seeds and membranes, which hold most of the heat. Another option is to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a milder kick.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
You can boost the flavor by adding more ingredients. Try a small red bell pepper for sweetness and color. Diced avocados bring creaminess and make the salsa richer. Consider adding a splash of orange juice for a fruity twist. A pinch of cumin or garlic powder can deepen the flavor profile, too. Just remember to mix well after adding anything new.
Presentation Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, choose a colorful bowl. A vibrant ceramic bowl or a clear glass bowl works well. Garnish your salsa with fresh cilantro leaves on top. Add lime wedges on the side for a pop of color and extra zest. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or use it as a topping on grilled chicken or fish. A well-presented dish makes every meal feel special.
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Mangoes: Ensure your mangoes are ripe for the best sweetness and flavor. They should yield slightly to pressure and have a fragrant aroma.
- Adjust Heat Level: The jalapeño can add significant heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, consider removing the seeds or using a milder pepper.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salsa to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time enhances the flavors as they meld together.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients such as corn or black beans for added texture and flavor variations.

Variations
Other Fruits to Include
You can mix in other fruits for fun flavors. Try adding diced pineapple. It gives a sweet twist. Chopped peaches work well too. They add a juicy texture. For a tropical vibe, add some diced kiwi. Each fruit brings a new taste that brightens the salsa.
Spicy vs. Mild Options
You control the heat with the jalapeño. If you want it spicy, use more jalapeño. For a milder salsa, use less or remove the seeds. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for warmth. If you prefer no heat, skip the jalapeño entirely.
Serving Suggestions
This salsa fits many meals. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips for a snack. It also makes a great topping for grilled chicken or fish. Try it on tacos for a fresh kick. You can even mix it into salads for color and taste. Each way you serve it adds a bright note to your meal.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover mango cilantro salsa, use an airtight container. Place the salsa in the container and cover it tightly. This keeps the freshness locked in and prevents smells from other foods from getting in. Always refrigerate the salsa. It’s best to eat it within a few days to enjoy its bright flavors.
Freezing Options
You can freeze mango cilantro salsa, but some texture changes may occur. To freeze, pour the salsa into a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out all the air before sealing the bag. Label the bag with the date. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Stir before serving to mix the flavors back together.
Shelf Life of Mango Cilantro Salsa
In the fridge, mango cilantro salsa lasts for about 3 to 5 days. If you freeze it, the salsa can last for up to three months. Always check for any off smells or colors before using it. If it looks or smells bad, throw it out. Enjoy your fresh salsa while it’s at its best!
FAQs
Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salsa ahead of time. I like to prepare it a few hours before serving. This gives the flavors time to mix and deepen. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container. Just remember to stir before serving.
What dishes pair well with Mango Cilantro Salsa?
Mango cilantro salsa pairs well with many dishes. Here are some great options:
– Grilled chicken or fish for a fresh topping
– Tacos, especially fish or shrimp tacos
– Tortilla chips for a tasty snack
– Burrito bowls to add color and flavor
– Salads for a zesty kick
Is it possible to make Mango Cilantro Salsa without cilantro?
Yes, you can make this salsa without cilantro. If you are not a fan, try using fresh parsley instead. It adds a nice touch without the strong taste. You can also skip the herbs and just enjoy the mango and lime flavors.
This blog post covers the key aspects of making delicious Mango Cilantro Salsa. We explored the main ingredients and measurements, plus optional items and substitutes. You learned step-by-step preparation and mixing methods to blend flavors. Tips for adjusting heat and ideas for presentation were shared too. We discussed tasty variations and smart storage solutions for leftovers. Finally, we answered common questions about making and serving this salsa. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe! It’s easy, fun, and sure to impres
Mango Cilantro Fiesta Salsa
A refreshing and vibrant salsa made with ripe mangoes and fresh cilantro, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
- 2 whole ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 whole jalapeño pepper, minced
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 whole limes, juiced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional)
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Dice the mangoes, chop the red onion, mince the jalapeño, and finely chop the cilantro. If using, dice the red bell pepper as well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeño, and red bell pepper (if using).
Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl.
Squeeze the juice of the limes over the mixture.
Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients and toss gently to combine everything well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust lime juice and seasoning as needed based on your preference.
Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve in a colorful bowl, garnished with additional cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Great with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish!
Keyword appetizer, fresh, mango, salsa
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