Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa Recipe

There’s something utterly delightful about a summer meal that combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet, and this Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa recipe does just that. This dish has quickly become a favorite in my household, bringing smiles to my family’s faces with every bite. The combination of tender, flaky tilapia and the vibrant, juicy mango salsa is nothing short of exceptional. As soon as the fish hits the grill, the aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table, eager to taste the masterpiece. The mango salsa, with its bright colors and refreshing flavors, complements the grilled fish beautifully, making it a dish that’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer evening or as a way to bring a bit of sunshine to a dreary day, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

To recreate this culinary delight in your own kitchen, you’ll need a list of fresh and flavorful ingredients that come together to make this dish truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Grilled Tilapia:

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Mango Salsa:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this dish to life. Follow these simple steps to prepare Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa:

1. Prepare the Tilapia: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the tilapia fillets, ensuring they’re well coated.
2. Grill the Tilapia: Place the seasoned tilapia fillets on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish to retain its moist texture.
3. Make the Mango Salsa: While the tilapia is grilling, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) in a medium-sized bowl. Squeeze the lime juice over the salsa and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
4. Serve: Once the tilapia is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the mango salsa generously over the top of the fish. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of the salsa will beautifully enhance the grilled tilapia.
5. Enjoy: Serve immediately while the tilapia is warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad.

Nutrition Facts

When it comes to nutrition, Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa is a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

This recipe serves 4 people, with each serving containing approximately 300 calories. It’s a low-calorie, high-protein meal that’s perfect for those who are health-conscious but don’t want to sacrifice taste.

Preparation Time

One of the many great things about this recipe is its simplicity and speed. You can have this delicious dish ready in under an hour, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a spontaneous summer gathering. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

While the Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa is a star on its own, you can enhance your dining experience with thoughtful serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Over Rice: Serve the tilapia and salsa over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices.
• With Tortillas: Turn this dish into a fish taco night by serving the tilapia and salsa in warm corn tortillas.
• Alongside Grilled Vegetables: Pair with a medley of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, and bell peppers for a complete meal.
• With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well to complement the flavors of the dish.
• As a Sandwich: Use crusty bread to make a tilapia sandwich with a generous topping of mango salsa for a handheld delight.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa is the best it can be, here are some additional tips and tricks:

• Tip 1: For the freshest salsa, choose ripe mangoes that give slightly when pressed. They should have a sweet fragrance and vibrant color.
• Tip 2: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the tilapia in the oven for similar results.
• Tip 3: Consider using different herbs such as mint or basil in the salsa for a unique twist on flavor.
• Tip 4: Adjust the heat in the salsa by adding more or less jalapeño according to your preference.
• Tip 5: Leftover mango salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and makes a great topping for other dishes like grilled chicken or pork.

FAQ Section

This section addresses some common questions you might have about making Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa:

Q1: Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?

A1: Yes, you can use frozen tilapia fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling to ensure even cooking.

Q2: Can I substitute another type of fish for tilapia?

A2: Absolutely! Any mild white fish such as cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi would work well with this recipe.

Q3: How can I make the salsa ahead of time?

A3: You can prepare the mango salsa a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Q4: What if I don’t have fresh mangoes?

A4: If fresh mangoes are not available, you can use canned or frozen mango chunks. Just be sure to drain them well if using canned, and thaw and pat them dry if using frozen.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

A5: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those following a gluten-free diet. Just ensure that all the ingredients you use, such as spices, are certified gluten-free.