The BEST Mango Salsa

Hey there, Hungry People!

Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: the mouthwatering Mango Salsa. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress, and it has become a staple in my kitchen.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why my mom lovingly refers to it as “crack salsa.” It’s seriously addictive!

The Sweet and Heat Combo: Exploring Fruit Salsa

What sets this salsa apart from the rest is its unique twist of using fruits instead of the traditional tomato and bell pepper base. The combination of juicy mangoes and strawberries creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

But wait, there’s more!

To balance out the sweetness, we add a touch of tangy white and red onions that soak up the zesty vinegar. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy, with a refreshing crunch from the addition of cucumber.

Amping Up the Heat

Now, if you’re looking to crank up the heat and add an extra kick to your salsa, you have a couple of options. I typically use a jalapeno for a mild to medium spiciness, but if you’re feeling adventurous, go for a habanero pepper to take it to the next level. Remember, though, to handle these hot peppers with care, as they can pack quite a punch!

Cilantro vs. Parsley: Personalizing the Flavor

Cilantro, with its distinct aroma and flavor, is a traditional herb used in salsa recipes. However, I understand that some of you belong to the small percentage of people who genetically dislike cilantro. If you fall into this category (such as myself), fear not! You can swap out cilantro for fresh parsley to infuse your salsa with a delightful herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• English cucumber: Provides a refreshing and crisp texture to the salsa.
• Mango: Adds a sweet and tropical flavor, complementing the other ingredients.
• Sweet onion: Balances the sweetness of the mangoes while adding a mild onion flavor.
• Red onion: Provides a slightly sharper flavor and adds color to the salsa.
• Jalapeno or habanero: Adds heat and spice to the salsa, depending on your preference.
• Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic and savory notes.
• Strawberries: Contributes a subtle fruity sweetness and adds a pop of color.
• Lemon juice: Provides a tangy and citrusy element to brighten up the flavors.
• White vinegar: Offers a tangy acidity that helps balance the sweetness and adds a pleasant zing.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to enhance the overall taste.
• Sugar: Balances the flavors and helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the fruits.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall taste and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Let’s Jump On Into It

Preparing this mango salsa is a breeze, especially if you have a trusty onion chopper on hand. It’s a fantastic tool that helps you cut everything into uniform, bite-sized pieces.

Alternatively, you can use a food processor to create a thinner consistency if you prefer. The texture may vary, but the flavor will remain just as delightful.

Now, let’s talk mangoes!

Mangoes are most easily cubed by cutting along the side the seed in the middle, giving you two even halves and two smaller side pieces.

I always gobble those up as soon as I cut them off, however, because mangoes are my drug of choice.

True life, I’m addicted to mango season.

Once you’ve chopped and cubed all the ingredients, it’s time to bring the flavors together. Gently toss the salsa with white vinegar, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

These simple additions elevate the taste profile and add the perfect amount of zing to your salsa.

Get ready to revel in the deliciousness of this salsa because it yields a generous amount. I’ve found a fantastic solution for preserving its flavor throughout the year—mason jars! Simply seal up the salsa in these handy jars, and you can enjoy it whenever you crave a burst of sweet and spicy goodness.

The best part? The flavors meld and intensify as the salsa rests in the fridge, making it even better with time.

Tips & Tricks

1. Taste and adjust: While the recipe provides general guidelines for ingredient amounts, taste as you go and adjust the flavors according to your preference. You may want to add more sugar for extra sweetness or adjust the amount of jalapeno/habanero for spiciness.
2. Consistency control: If you prefer a chunkier salsa, chop the ingredients into larger pieces. For a smoother salsa, finely chop or pulse the ingredients in a food processor.
3. Mango ripeness: Choose ripe but firm mangoes for the salsa. Overripe mangoes can become too mushy and affect the texture of the salsa.
4. Balancing sweetness and acidity: If the salsa tastes too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice or vinegar to increase the acidity. Conversely, if it’s too acidic, a touch more sugar can help balance the flavors.
5. Customize the heat: Adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less jalapeno/habanero. Remember to handle hot peppers with caution and wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
6. Storing leftovers: If you have leftover salsa, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for a few days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again.
7. Pairing suggestions: Mango salsa is not limited to just tortilla chips. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish tacos, quesadillas, or as a topping for salads.
8. Ingredient substitutions: Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you dislike onions, you can omit them or replace them with scallions.

When you’re ready to indulge, serve your homemade mango salsa chilled alongside crispy tortilla chips. The combination of the cool salsa and the crunchy chips creates a delightful contrast that will have you coming back for more. It’s the perfect appetizer or party snack that’s sure to impress your guests.

So, Hungry People, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and give this tantalizing Mango Salsa recipe a try. You’ll soon see why it’s a fan-favorite and a frequent request in my kitchen. Remember, cooking from scratch with affordable ingredients can be both exciting and delicious – enjoy!

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