Sweet and Spicy Fresh Mango Salsa Recipe
This fresh mango salsa recipe is sweet, spicy, and easy to make with just 8 ingredients! Scoop it up with tortilla chips or top it onto tacos and more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mango salsa recipe is one of my favorite appetizers to make throughout the spring and summer. It’s refreshing, fun, and incredibly simple, made with fresh ingredients like sweet, juicy mango, red bell pepper, crisp red onion, cilantro, and lime. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a delightful dip to serve with tortilla chips at potlucks and parties. I also enjoy it on tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes!
Once you follow this recipe a couple of times, you’ll be able to eyeball the ingredients. Plus, feel free to introduce your creative twists. Mix in avocado, add some black beans, or even toss in pickled jalapeños! This easy and flexible recipe never disappoints. Get your margarita ready—let’s make mango salsa!
Mango Salsa Ingredients
You just need 8 ingredients for this sweet and spicy salsa recipe:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Ripe Mangos | Ataulfo or Champagne mangos have a softer, juicier texture. |
| Red Bell Pepper | Adds color and crunch. |
| Red Onion & Garlic | For sharp, savory flavor. |
| Cilantro | Provides freshness. |
| Fresh Lime Juice & Zest | Adds brightness. |
| Jalapeño | For a spicy kick. |
| Sea Salt | A sprinkle enhances flavors. |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Substitutions and Variations
This mango salsa recipe is incredibly flexible! Here are a few favorite variations:
- Add Avocado: Stir in 1/2-1 diced avocado for a richer taste.
- Pickled Ingredients: Replace raw jalapeños with pickled ones for an extra tang.
- Bulk It Up: Add 1/2 cup cooked black beans for a heartier salsa.
- Skip Cilantro: Use chopped parsley or mint if you don’t like cilantro.
- Make It Milder: Omit jalapeño or deseed it for less heat.
Feel free to experiment and share your variations!
How to Make Mango Salsa
The first step is prepping the mango. Here’s my favorite method:
- Slice Off the Sides: Place the mango on a cutting board. Cut slightly to the left and right of center to remove the flesh.
- Score the Flesh: With the mango halves skin-side down, score the flesh in a grid pattern, without cutting through the skin.
- Remove the Fruit: Slice horizontally between the scored flesh and skin. The cubes should pop right out!
Next, chop the red pepper, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Grate the garlic and zest and juice the lime. Finally, mix everything together and season to taste. So easy!
Uses for Mango Salsa
This mango salsa is a perfect appetizer on its own with tortilla chips. It can jazz up guacamole too—just scoop some into your guacamole bowl for an upgraded dip!
Your options for serving are endless. Here are some more ideas:
- On grilled fish or chicken for a tropical flair.
- As a topping for tacos or burritos.
- Mix it into salads for added flavor.
How do you like to serve mango salsa? Share in the comments!
How to Store Mango Salsa
This salsa is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The mango will soften and become juicier over time.
More Homemade Salsa Recipes
If you love this mango salsa recipe, try these homemade salsas next: