A light, flavorful meal that screams summer on a plate, this Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa is the kind of dish you pull out when you want to impress without the stress. It’s smoky, juicy, and topped with a sweet and tangy mango salsa that brings color and brightness to every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this dish is as healthy as it is beautiful.

The salmon gets a simple spice rub before hitting the grill, locking in flavor with those irresistible char marks. But the real star? That mango salsa. Juicy chunks of mango are tossed with red onion, fresh cilantro, and a splash of lime for a tropical twist that instantly elevates the fish. Quick to prepare and guaranteed to disappear fast, it’s a seafood lover’s dream.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use?

For grilling, go with center-cut salmon fillets with the skin on. The skin helps hold the fish together and prevents it from sticking to the grill. Wild-caught salmon like sockeye or coho has a richer flavor and firmer texture, while farm-raised varieties like Atlantic salmon are milder and more buttery. Choose what fits your taste and budget best.

Ingredients for the Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

Salmon Fillets
The protein-packed base of this dish. Opt for fillets with skin-on for easier grilling and better flavor retention.

Olive Oil
A light coating before grilling helps prevent sticking and adds a nice richness to the fish.

Smoked Paprika
Adds depth and a subtle smokiness that enhances the grilled flavor.

Garlic Powder + Onion Powder
These pantry staples create a savory base that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the salsa.

Salt + Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the salmon.

Mango
The star of the salsa. Choose ripe but firm mangos for the best texture and sweetness.

Red Onion
Brings crunch and a sharp bite to balance the mango’s sweetness.

Cilantro
Fresh and vibrant, cilantro adds a burst of herbal brightness.

Lime Juice
A zesty splash that ties the whole salsa together and complements the richness of the salmon.

How To Make the Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prep the Mango Salsa

Peel and dice the mango into small chunks, finely chop the red onion and cilantro, then combine them in a bowl. Add fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt, and stir everything gently. Let it sit while the salmon cooks to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over each side and rub in the spices: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with oil. This helps create those perfect grill marks and prevents the salmon from sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the hot grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque center.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Transfer the grilled salmon to a plate or platter. Spoon the mango salsa generously over the top of each piece. Serve immediately while warm, with extra lime wedges on the side if desired.

Serving and Storing Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa

This salmon dish is best served fresh off the grill when the fish is still juicy and the mango salsa is chilled and vibrant. Pair it with coconut rice, grilled veggies, or a crisp green salad for a balanced, tropical-inspired plate. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lime rounds it out beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and mango salsa separately in airtight containers. The salmon will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. You can enjoy it cold, flaked over a salad, or gently reheat it in a skillet. The mango salsa is freshest within 24 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center. If using a thermometer, aim for an internal temp of 125°F for medium-rare or 135°F for well-done.

Can I use frozen mango?

Yes! Just thaw the mango completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing it for the salsa.

Do I need a grill to make this?

No grill? No problem. You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the salmon in the oven for similar results.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all. It’s flavor-packed but mild. You can add chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili powder to the salsa if you want a kick.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the salsa a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. The salmon is best grilled fresh but can be seasoned a few hours before cooking to save time.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If this Easy Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa has you dreaming of more ocean-fresh flavors, try these delicious meals next:

• Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce for a rich, comforting twist.
• Healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe when you want something simple yet elevated.
• Cajun Shrimp Scampi for spicy, buttery seafood pasta vibes.
• Slow Cooker Southern Shrimp Boil Recipe that’s made for easy entertaining.
• Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp for a quick grill-friendly companion.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready whenever grilling season calls. You can find more fresh and colorful meals like this one on my Pinterest page: Life with Jam.

I love seeing your creations! Let me know in the comments how you served your salmon. Did you add extra heat to the salsa? Try a different fruit? Let’s inspire each other to keep things vibrant and flavorful!