Forget bland fish tacos! This recipe elevates the classic with succulent grilled salmon and a vibrant, sweet, and spicy mango salsa. It's a flavour explosion that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
What Makes These Salmon Tacos Special?
These aren't your average fish tacos. We're ditching the usual white fish and embracing the richness of salmon. Grilling the salmon adds a smoky char that beautifully complements the fresh mango salsa. The salsa itself is a masterpiece of contrasting flavors – the sweetness of mango, the heat of jalapeño, the tang of lime, and the freshness of red onion and cilantro. The combination is simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded cabbage, avocado slices, sour cream or Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
2. Grill the Salmon:
- Place the salmon on the preheated grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillet.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before flaking.
3. Make the Mango Salsa:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss to combine.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas according to package instructions.
- Flake the grilled salmon and divide it evenly among the tortillas.
- Top with generous spoonfuls of mango salsa and your other favorite toppings (cabbage, avocado, etc.).
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of fish for these tacos?
While salmon is highly recommended for its rich flavor and texture, you can experiment with other firm white fish like cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the type of fish you choose.
How can I make the mango salsa spicier?
For a spicier salsa, leave some or all of the jalapeño seeds in, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also use a serrano pepper instead of jalapeño for a more intense heat.
Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?
Yes! The mango salsa tastes even better when made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. Make it a few hours or even a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What kind of tortillas are best for these tacos?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well. Corn tortillas provide a slightly more authentic taste, while flour tortillas offer a softer texture. Choose your favorite!
Are these tacos healthy?
These salmon tacos are a relatively healthy meal option, packed with protein from the salmon and vitamins and antioxidants from the mango salsa. However, the calorie content will depend on the type of tortillas you use and the amount of toppings you add.
Beyond the Basics: Tips for Extra Flavor
- Marinate the Salmon: For even more flavourful salmon, marinate it in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Grill the Mango: For a smoky twist, lightly grill the mango slices before adding them to the salsa.
- Add Some Heat: Incorporate a pinch of smoked salt or chipotle powder into the salsa for an extra layer of flavor.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like shredded lettuce, pickled onions, or a drizzle of crema fresca.
Enjoy your delicious and unforgettable salmon fish tacos with mango salsa!
