Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something vibrant, refreshing, and bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This mango and pineapple salsa recipe is your ticket to a taste of sunshine, perfect as a healthy appetizer, a zesty topping for grilled chicken or fish, or even a delightful addition to your tacos. This easy recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and simple homemade dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 2 cups of salsa. Feel free to double or halve it depending on your needs.
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create your vibrant mango and pineapple salsa:
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Prep the Fruit: Begin by peeling and dicing the mango and pineapple into roughly equal-sized pieces. Aim for about ½-inch cubes for optimal texture.
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Chop the Veggies: Finely chop the red onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Removing the jalapeño seeds will reduce the heat significantly.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced mango, pineapple, red onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using).
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Add the Flavor Boosters: Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Gently Mix: Toss everything together gently until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the texture of the fruit and vegetables.
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Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Mango Pineapple Salsa:
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Fruit Ripeness is Key: Use ripe, but not overripe, mangoes and pineapple for the best flavor and texture. Slightly underripe fruit can be a bit tart.
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Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salsa, omit the jalapeño or use less. Alternatively, for extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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Fresh Herbs are Best: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that enhances the sweetness of the mango and pineapple.
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Make it Ahead: This salsa can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Add some Avocado: For a creamier salsa, add ½ a ripe avocado, mashed.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate other tropical fruits like papaya or kiwi for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a smoky kick.
- Sweet and Savory: A drizzle of honey or agave nectar can balance the acidity and add a touch of sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Protein: Approximately 1-2 grams
- Fat: Approximately 3-5 grams
This vibrant and refreshing mango and pineapple salsa is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for grilled fish, or a side dish for your favorite tacos, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the taste of sunshine!