Looking for a fresh twist on your summer snacks? Let me introduce you to my Mango Avocado Salsa! This tasty dish bursts with vibrant flavors and is super easy to make. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this salsa pairs well with everything. In this post, I'll share the simple steps, ingredient tips, and tasty variations to elevate your salsa game. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: This salsa is bursting with vibrant flavors from the ripe mango and creamy avocados, making it an irresistible treat.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for quick gatherings or last-minute snacks.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for grilled fish, or even as a fresh salad addition.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious fruits and herbs, this salsa is a guilt-free way to indulge in deliciousness.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Mango Avocado Salsa
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin for added depth
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
If you can’t find ripe mango, use peaches instead. They offer a sweet, juicy flavor. For avocados, you can try using diced cucumber for a lighter texture. Instead of red onion, use green onions for a milder taste. If you want less heat, skip the jalapeño or use bell pepper. For the lime juice, lemon juice works too.
Nutrition Information
A serving of mango avocado salsa has about 150 calories. It contains around 10 grams of fat, mostly from the avocado. Each serving has about 5 grams of carbs and 2 grams of protein. This salsa is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the mango and avocado. It’s a great way to enjoy healthy fats and fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Preparation Steps
1. Start by dicing one ripe mango. Make sure it is sweet and juicy.
2. Next, dice two ripe avocados. Look for soft ones that yield to gentle pressure.
3. Finely chop one small red onion. This will add a nice crunch and flavor.
4. Mince one jalapeño. Remove the seeds if you want less heat in your salsa.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mango and avocados.
6. Add the chopped red onion and minced jalapeño to the bowl.
7. Sprinkle in half a cup of fresh cilantro, chopped. Mix gently to avoid mashing.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of two limes, one tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and ground cumin if you want it.
9. Drizzle the lime dressing over the salsa. Toss gently until everything is mixed.
10. Taste your salsa and adjust the seasoning if needed. More lime juice or salt can help.
11. Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors combine well.
Tips for Mixing Ingredients Properly
- Mix gently when combining the ingredients.
- Use a large spatula to fold the salsa without smashing the avocados.
- Taste often as you mix. You can always add more lime or salt.
Visual Guide to Each Step (images/videos)
While I can’t provide images or videos, I suggest taking photos as you prepare. This can help you track your progress and see the vibrant colors come together. You can also look for video tutorials online that showcase similar recipes.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Selecting Ripe Mangoes and Avocados
When choosing mangoes, look for ones that feel slightly soft. They should give a little when you press them. Check the color, too. A ripe mango often has a mix of green and yellow or red. For avocados, pick ones that feel firm but not hard. A ripe avocado will yield slightly to pressure but should not be mushy. If you find them hard, leave them on the counter for a few days. They will ripen nicely.
How to Prevent Avocado from Browning
Avocados brown quickly once cut. To keep your salsa fresh, add lime juice right away. The acid in lime slows down browning. You can also store the leftover salsa in an airtight container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the salsa surface to limit air contact. This helps maintain that bright green color for longer.
Flavor Enhancements and Customizations
You can add fun twists to your salsa! Try mixing in diced tomatoes for more color. If you like heat, throw in some extra jalapeños. A pinch of ground cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor. You can even mix in diced pineapple for a sweet twist. Feel free to customize based on what you enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Ingredients: Ensure your mangoes and avocados are perfectly ripe for the best flavor and texture. A ripe mango should give slightly when pressed, while ripe avocados should feel soft but not mushy.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder salsa, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. For more heat, keep some seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the salsa to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving helps the flavors to meld beautifully. This resting time is key for a more cohesive taste.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your salsa by adding diced tomatoes or corn for extra texture, or even some chopped mango to enhance the sweetness.
Variations
Spicy Mango Avocado Salsa with Additional Ingredients
To make your salsa spicy, add fresh jalapeño. Remove the seeds for less heat. You can also use a serrano pepper for more kick. For extra flavor, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin. This spice adds warmth and depth. Lime juice brightens the dish and balances the spice.
Tropical Salsa Variations (adding pineapple or kiwi)
You can turn this salsa into a tropical delight. Dice fresh pineapple or kiwi and fold it in. Pineapple adds sweetness and a juicy crunch. Kiwi brings a tangy twist that makes it unique. Both fruits pair well with mango and avocado. They add bright colors to your dish, too.
Low-Carb or Vegan Adaptations
For a low-carb option, skip the mango. Use diced bell peppers instead. They add crunch and color without the sugar. Want to keep it vegan? Stick to the original recipe. All the ingredients are plant-based and delicious. You can also swap lime juice for lemon juice for a different taste.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftover Salsa
To keep your mango avocado salsa fresh, store it in an airtight container. This method helps prevent air from spoiling the salsa. If you use a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge, where it stays cool and tasty.
How Long Does Mango Avocado Salsa Last in the Fridge?
Mango avocado salsa lasts about 1 to 2 days in the fridge. The avocados may brown after a day, but the flavor remains good. If your salsa looks brown, stir it gently. This can help mix in the fresher parts.
Freezing Instructions (if applicable)
Freezing salsa is not recommended due to the avocados' texture. When frozen, they may become mushy when thawed. If you still want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Be aware that the quality may change after thawing. But feel free to enjoy it fresh for the best flavor!
FAQs
Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salsa ahead of time. It tastes even better after sitting. I suggest preparing it up to one day before. Just keep it in the fridge. This will help the flavors blend well. Just remember to add the avocado right before serving. This keeps it fresh and green.
What to serve with Mango Avocado Salsa?
Mango avocado salsa pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it with tortilla chips for a tasty snack. It also works great on grilled fish or chicken. Try it with tacos for a fresh kick. You can even use it as a topping for salads. The options are endless!
Can I make this salsa without cilantro?
Yes, you can make this salsa without cilantro. If you do not like cilantro, try using parsley instead. Parsley adds a fresh flavor without the strong taste. You could also leave it out completely. The salsa will still taste delicious and fresh without it.
Mango avocado salsa is fresh and flavorful. We covered its key ingredients, step-by-step prep, and helpful tips. You learned how to choose ripe fruit and keep avocados green. Plus, I shared tasty variations and storage tips.
Feel free to make this salsa your own. Enjoy it with your favorite snacks or meals. This recipe adds fun to any gathering. Healthy, bright, and versatile, you’ll love sharing it with friends and family.
