Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that combines vibrant flavors with easy preparation, then look no further than this Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites, not just because it’s delicious, but also because it brings a touch of sunshine to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a family gathering, this meal will surely be a hit.

The flaky salmon pairs perfectly with the creamy mango salsa and aromatic coconut rice, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, this meal is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the salsa and rice earlier in the day to save time at dinner.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this dish as beautiful as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find! Gather them up for a lovely cooking experience.

For the Salmon Marinade

• 4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets
• 3 Tbsp olive oil (plus more for grill)
• 2 tsp lime zest
• 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic (crushed)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Coconut Rice

• 1 1/2 cups Zico Coconut Water
• 1 1/4 cups canned coconut milk
• 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice (rinsed well and drained well)
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Mango Salsa

• 1 large mango (peeled and diced)
• 3/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (1/2 large)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under water and drained)
• 1 large avocado (peeled and diced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp Zico Coconut Water
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If salmon isn’t your thing, try using grilled chicken or tofu instead.
• Change up the fruit: Substitute mango with pineapple or peach for a different flavor twist.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by throwing in some diced jalapeño into the salsa.
• Try different grains: Quinoa or brown rice can be used instead of jasmine rice for added nutrition.

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. This marinade infuses the salmon with zesty flavors that make each bite unforgettable. Let the salmon marinate while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Cook the Coconut Rice

In a saucepan, combine Zico Coconut Water, coconut milk, jasmine rice, and salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and let simmer until all liquid is absorbed. Fluffy coconut rice complements the rich salmon beautifully!

Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa

In another bowl, gently toss together diced mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, red onion, avocado, lime juice, olive oil, coconut water, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates a fresh salsa that brightens up your dish. The creaminess of avocado pairs so well with sweet mango!

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grill grates with additional olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill each salmon fillet for about 5-7 minutes per side until it’s cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks. Cooking it just right ensures that it’s tender and flaky!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

To serve, place a generous scoop of coconut rice on each plate topped with grilled salmon. Spoon over plenty of mango salsa for that burst of flavor! Enjoy this vibrant dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Cooking can be a joy, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your grilled salmon shines.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible. It has a richer flavor and firmer texture than farmed varieties, making it perfect for grilling.
• Marinate: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes before grilling. This enhances the flavor and tenderness, making each bite deliciously tender.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the salmon. A hot grill helps create those beautiful grill marks while preventing sticking.
• Watch the Cooking Time: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side; overcooking can lead to dry fish!
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Presentation is key when serving a dish that’s as vibrant and delicious as this one! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkling extra cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the mango salsa perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, grilled asparagus adds a lovely crunch that pairs wonderfully with the richness of salmon.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the coconut rice.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness, which balances well with the savory elements of the dish.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens topped with sliced avocado and a light vinaigrette provides freshness alongside your main course.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends or family at your next gathering! Enjoy every flavorful bite of this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal throughout the week. Here’s how to store leftovers and keep everything fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon and coconut rice to cool completely before storing.
• Place the salmon and rice in separate airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the mango salsa in a separate container, also covered, for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each salmon fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The coconut rice can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Mango salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to a month; just note that the texture may change when thawed.

Reheating

• Thaw any frozen salmon and rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For rice, add a splash of water and microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Serve salsa fresh or let it come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

If you have some questions about this delicious dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries about Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice.

Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! You can substitute other firm fish like trout or mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

What is the best way to grill salmon for this recipe?

For Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill each fillet skin-side down for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free! The creamy texture from the coconut milk makes it a rich alternative without dairy products.

Can I prepare the mango salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa up to 2 hours before serving. Just toss everything together and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this journey into making Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice! This dish not only looks beautiful on your plate but also bursts with flavor that will surely delight your family and friends. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Don’t hesitate to try it out – your taste buds will thank you!