Summer just got a whole lot tastier! Forget bland side dishes; this vibrant Mango Corn Salsa is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. It's the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and refreshing, making it ideal for everything from taco nights to simple grilled chicken dinners. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, and even seasoned cooks will appreciate its fresh, homemade flavors. Get ready to elevate your mealtimes with this delicious and healthy dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Produce: Start by dicing the mangoes and red bell pepper into small, roughly equal-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion and mince the jalapeño (if using). Make sure to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño to reduce the heat if you prefer a milder salsa.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced mangoes, thawed corn, red onion, red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño (if using).
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Dress it Up: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the mango corn mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Mango Corn Salsa:
- Mango Ripeness Matters: Choose mangoes that are ripe but firm. Overripe mangoes can become mushy.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your preference. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes. You can also substitute a milder pepper like poblano.
- Fresh Cilantro is Key: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Make it Ahead: This salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time.
Variations:
- Add some protein: Toss in some cooked black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Tropical Twist: Add a diced pineapple or some shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Avocado Creaminess: Stir in some diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
This delicious mango corn salsa is perfect as a side dish, a topping for grilled fish or chicken, or even as a filling for tacos. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a healthy and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!