Introduction

Oh, summer! Doesn’t it just bring back those memories of backyard BBQs, lazy beach days, and the vibrant taste of fresh fruit? There’s something about the season that makes us crave bright, zesty flavors. And if there’s one dish that screams “summer sunshine” to me, it’s a killer mango salsa. This recipe is so ridiculously simple and quick, it’ll become your go-to for everything from weeknight dinners to last-minute potlucks. You’ll be amazed at how these few ingredients come together to create a flavor explosion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast: Seriously, you can whip this up in under 15 minutes.
Easy: No fancy knife skills or complicated techniques required.
Giftable: Perfect for bringing to a friend’s house or as a delicious hostess gift.
Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves a good salsa, and this sweet and spicy combo is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magical mango salsa:

2 ripe mangoes, diced: The star of the show! Look for mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
½ cup mango fruit spread: This is my secret weapon for an extra punch of mango flavor and a touch of sweetness.
1 jalapeño, minced (seeds removed for less heat, optional): For that perfect little kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, just take out all those seeds and membranes.
1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color.
2 green onions, chopped: For a fresh, mild onion flavor that won’t overpower.
Lime juice, to taste: Freshly squeezed is best, it really brightens everything up.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A little bit of earthy goodness that complements the fruit.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: If you’re a cilantro lover, feel free to add a little more!
Salt, to taste: Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors.
Black pepper, to taste: A little grind for a touch of warmth.

How to Make It

Alright, let’s get this party started! Grab your favorite mixing bowl and let’s do this.

Combine the goodies: In a medium bowl, toss together your diced mangoes, the mango fruit spread, your minced jalapeño (remember to deseed if you prefer less heat!), chopped red bell pepper, and chopped green onions.
Add the flavor boosters: Now, squeeze in some fresh lime juice. Start with a tablespoon or two and you can always add more later. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and the freshly chopped cilantro.
Season it up: It’s time to season! Add a pinch of salt and a grind of black pepper. Give it a little taste – this is your chance to adjust if you want more lime, salt, or even a touch more heat!
Gently stir: Carefully stir everything together. You want to mix it well, but be gentle so you don’t mash up those beautiful mango chunks.
Let the flavors mingle: This is the hardest part – waiting! Cover your bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time is crucial for letting all those wonderful flavors get to know each other.

Substitutions & Additions

This salsa is fantastic as is, but it’s also a great canvas for your own creativity! Here are a few ideas:

Mango Swap: If fresh mangoes are tricky to find, you can use a good quality canned mango, drained very well.
Spice Level: For more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For absolutely no heat, you can omit the jalapeño entirely.
Other Peppers: A finely diced serrano pepper can add a different kind of heat. Or, for a milder sweetness, try a bit of finely diced yellow bell pepper.
Citrus Power: A splash of orange juice or a tiny bit of fresh ginger can add another layer of flavor.
Fruity Fun: Add in some diced pineapple, strawberries, or even a few blueberries for extra color and flavor.

Tips for Success

Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a few pointers. Here’s how to ensure your salsa is perfection:

Ripe Mangoes are Key: This can’t be stressed enough! Underripe mangoes will be hard and flavorless. Overripe ones can get mushy. Aim for that perfect sweet spot.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but that 15 minutes in the fridge makes a huge difference in how the flavors meld together.
Prep Ahead: You can chop your veggies and dice the mangoes a few hours in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Then, just combine everything right before you’re ready to serve.
Taste and Adjust: Always, always taste your salsa before serving and adjust the seasonings. Your palate is your best guide!

How to Store It

This salsa is best enjoyed fresh, but you can definitely store leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The mangoes might soften a bit over time, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

Q: How do I know if a mango is ripe?

A: A ripe mango will yield slightly to gentle pressure, like a ripe avocado or peach. It should also have a fruity aroma at the stem end. Don’t judge ripeness solely by color, as different varieties have different hues.

Q: Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually get even better as they meld together. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.

Q: What can I serve this mango salsa with?

A: Oh, the possibilities are endless! It’s amazing with tortilla chips, grilled chicken or fish, tacos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for a summer salad. It’s also a fantastic side dish for any BBQ!

Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa

This ridiculously simple and quick sweet and spicy mango salsa is your go-to for everything from weeknight dinners to last-minute potlucks. It's a flavor explosion of fresh fruit and a touch of heat, perfect for summer.

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Prep Time 15

Equipment

Mixing bowl medium size

Ingredients

Main ingredients

2 ripe mangoes diced
0.5 cup mango fruit spread for extra mango flavor and sweetness
1 jalapeño minced, seeds removed for less heat (optional)
1 red bell pepper chopped
2 green onions chopped
lime juice freshly squeezed, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
salt to taste
black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a medium bowl, toss together your diced mangoes, the mango fruit spread, your minced jalapeño (remember to deseed if you prefer less heat!), chopped red bell pepper, and chopped green onions.
Now, squeeze in some fresh lime juice. Start with a tablespoon or two and you can always add more later. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and the freshly chopped cilantro.
It's time to season! Add a pinch of salt and a grind of black pepper. Give it a little taste – this is your chance to adjust if you want more lime, salt, or even a touch more heat!
Carefully stir everything together. You want to mix it well, but be gentle so you don't mash up those beautiful mango chunks.
This is the hardest part – waiting! Cover your bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time is crucial for letting all those wonderful flavors get to know each other.

Notes

This salsa is fantastic as is, but it's also a great canvas for your own creativity! It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually get even better as they meld together.