Spicy Avocado Mango Salsa

Get ready for some culinary fireworks with this spicy mango and avocado salsa. Fresh and sweet with a kick from jalapeno, this condiment is perfection with grilled meats and tacos.

If you like this healthy condiment recipe, try my Amazing Guacamole or this Turmeric Tahini Dressing.

I believe that this salsa recipe is one that should be gifted. Given to kids going off to their independent lives, newlyweds, recipe swaps, you get the idea. In essence, this is the sort of recipe that everyone should have in their arsenal. Because it is a riot of flavors— fresh, sweet, spicy. Because it is incredibly versatile. Can you use it as a dip with tortilla chips? Yes. On chicken? Yes. With quesadillas? Yes. You can substitute peaches or pineapple for the mango. Any herb you have on hand works. And you can remember this formula when standing at the market for the zillionth time wondering what on earth to serve for dinner. As we know, this situation arises far more than one anticipates when you are just heading out into the world. Oh, and if a friend or colleague pops in for dinner, this is good enough, delicious enough, complex, and fresh enough, for company. It is a win-win-win.

With that said let’s explore all the burning questions that one may have about mango salsa and then…

Let’s Get Cooking!

Why Mangos Are Good in Salsa

Mangoes provide a sweet counterpoint to the chilies, raw onion, lime juice, and fresh herbs often found in salsa. The other ingredients tend to be spicy or strong in flavor, the mango balances the dish. Mangoes also bring a pleasing soft texture to the salsa which provides contrast.

Should I Put Avocados in Salsa?

This is a personal choice. Avocado works beautifully with the flavors of salsa and the luxe fattiness of the avocado balances the other sharp notes in the salsa. 

Is Avocado Salsa the Same As Guacamole?

Similar, but avocado salsa is not guacamole. They have similar ingredients but the textures are different. Guacamole is often mashed so the avocados have a smoother texture. In salsa, you typically put chunks of avocado or pieces. Avocado is the definite star of guacamole. In salsa other ingredients like tomato or chili may be the dominant flavor.

How To Make

• Choose a ripe mango without dents or bruises.
• Remove the orange flesh from the pit and dice it into small squares. (Instructions included below)
• Dice a piece of sweet raw onion to measure 1/4 cup.
• Remove the seeds and membranes from jalapeño peppers and small dice 1/4 cup of pepper.
• Choose a ripe avocado and cut it into similar-sized dice to the mango.
• Chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro. 
• Juice 2 limes.
• Combine all ingredients in a bowl, stir and salt to taste.

What Are The Best Mangoes to Use for this Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe?

Grocery stores carry a variety of mangoes. Any type will do but you want to make sure that the mango is ripe and without dents or bruises. A ripe mango will be soft to the touch and fragrant. You do not want a mushy mango or one that is rock hard.

The Best Way to Cut Mangoes for Salsa

A small dice of mango works beautifully in salsa. Try to cut the flesh of the mango into as uniform a dice as possible. The size of the dice can vary from 1/2 inch to a 2-inch square. If you like your salsa refined cut the fruit small. If you like a chunky salsa go for bigger squares. If you just like salsa, then cut the mango any which way!

You can follow this easy tutorial from Jessica Gavin to learn how to cut a mango.

How To Pick the Right Avocados for Mango Salsa 

You want a ripe avocado. Choose a fruit that you can press easily with your finger. You do not want a mushy avocado or one that has big dents. I also prefer the ones with shinier skin if you can find one. In my assessment, they have the best texture. 

How To Cut Avocados for Mango Salsa

You want a small to medium dice for the avocado in salsa. A one-inch square works well. Try to cut your avocado in uniform pieces that resemble the size and shape of some of the other ingredients in the salsa.

A good way to dice or cut food into squares is to take a piece of avocado, cut it into sticks and then cut the sticks into squares.

Serving Suggestions

Avocado mango salsa works brilliantly with grilled steak, and chicken. Spooned over roasted fish is also a lovely preparation. It also works in any typical tex-mex preparation like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

 Storage

• STORING: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. The acid in lime or lemon juice keeps this salsa from browning. Lime juice is in the recipe but if you see that you need more by all means add more lime juice to prevent browning.
• FREEZING: Not recommended

If you are looking for a fun spin on traditional salsa then trying this avocado mango salsa recipe is just what the doctor ordered.

Key points to remember:

• Pick a ripe mango and avocado for the salsa.
• Cut the fruits into a small to medium dice or square.
• Serve salsa with you favorite tex-mex meals.
• Store salsa in an airtight container.
• Add additional lime juice if necessary to prevent browning.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, paleo and whole 30 friendly.

• Keto – Substitute tomato or red bell pepper for the mango

For similar tasty dishes, check out my summer side dish recipes, May recipes and healthy Super Bowl recipes roundups!

I can’t wait for you to try this Spicy Avocado Mango Salsa Recipe! When you make it, snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @abrapappa or use the hashtag #abraskitchen so I can feature your photo! 

If you’ve tried this recipe, don’t forget to rate and leave a comment below. I love to hear from people who’ve made my recipes!