Are you looking for a zesty, refreshing addition to your paleo-friendly meal repertoire? Look no further! This simple, delicious mango salsa is the perfect answer. Bursting with flavors and colors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!
What is the Paleo Diet?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s quickly talk about the paleo diet for those who might be new to it. The paleo diet focuses on eating foods that were presumably available to our Paleolithic ancestors. This includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean meats. It avoids processed foods, grains, dairy, and legumes.
Why Mango Salsa?
Mango salsa is not just paleo-friendly; it’s also a versatile dish. You can pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even use it as a dip with paleo crackers. Mangos are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this salsa not just tasty, but also good for you.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangos, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup packed fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 large lime
- Salt, to taste
Note: Use fresh, ripe mangos for the best flavor. They should be firm but yield slightly to pressure.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by dicing your mangos into small, bite-size pieces. The size can depend on your preference, but smaller pieces blend flavors more effectively. Next, chop your red bell pepper into similar size pieces to keep the texture consistent. Finely chop the red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno. The amount of jalapeno can vary depending on your heat preference, so adjust accordingly.
- Mix It Up:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced mangos, chopped red bell pepper, chopped red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno. It’s essential to distribute these ingredients evenly to ensure every bite contains an explosion of flavors.
- Dress with Lime:
Squeeze the juice of one large lime over your mixture. Lime juice not only adds a tangy zest but also acts as a preservative, keeping your salsa fresher for longer. Plus, the acidity balances the sweetness of the mangos and the heat of the jalapeno beautifully.
- Season:
Add salt to taste. Start with a small amount, mix well, and taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away. Salt enhances the natural flavors within the salsa without overwhelming them.
- Chill and Serve:
While you can serve the salsa immediately, letting it chill in the refrigerator for an hour allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it chilled for a refreshing side or topping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Grilled Meats: Top grilled chicken or fish with this vibrant salsa for a healthy, flavorful meal.
- Tacos or Wraps: Use lettuce wraps for a paleo-friendly taco filled with your favorite protein and topped with mango salsa.
- Salad: Boost a simple green salad by adding a generous scoop of mango salsa.
- Dip: Enjoy it as a dip with paleo-friendly crackers or vegetable sticks.
Tips:
- Choosing Mangos: Look for mangos that are ripe and sweet. They should give slightly under gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Adjusting Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less jalapeno and adjust as needed. You can always add more if you find it’s not spicy enough.
- Preserving Leftovers: Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for 2-3 days.
Conclusion:
This paleo-friendly mango salsa is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re a paleo veteran or just looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought salsas, this recipe is a surefire way to brighten up your meals. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation mean you can whip this up in no time at all, ensuring you have a go-to option for healthy, flavorful eating. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular in your culinary lineup!