The vibrant colors of mango and avocado salsa paired with the tender, zesty lime salmon create a tropical experience that feels like a beach vacation in every bite. The creamy coconut rice complements the acidity of the lime and the sweetness of the mango, providing a comforting base that soaks up all the flavors of the dish. Whether you are looking for a fresh summer dinner idea or a healthy meal that feels indulgent, this Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa over Coconut Rice is a must-try. It’s perfect for meal prep, quick weeknight dinners, or impressing guests with a colorful, nutritious, and satisfying seafood dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 salmon fillets
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Juice and zest of 2 limes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 large mango, diced
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1 avocado, diced
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 cup jasmine rice
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1 cup coconut milk
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1 cup water
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1 tablespoon sugar
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Salt to taste
Directions:
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Combine lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush over salmon fillets and let marinate for 15 minutes.
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While salmon is marinating, prepare coconut rice. Combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest.
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For the salsa, combine diced mango, diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Gently toss to combine.
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Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill salmon for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through and slightly charred.
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Fluff coconut rice with a fork and serve with grilled salmon, topping each portion with a generous amount of mango avocado salsa.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Freshness of Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa and Coconut Rice
Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa and Coconut Rice is a vibrant dish that merges tropical flavors with nourishing, clean ingredients, creating a meal that is as visually stunning as it is satisfying. This dish captures the warmth of summer in every bite, delivering a bright, zesty, and comforting plate perfect for those looking to elevate their seafood dinners with a healthy, colorful twist.
The dish combines flaky, tender grilled salmon marinated in fresh lime and herbs, topped with a sweet and tangy mango avocado salsa that adds bursts of freshness, creaminess, and subtle heat. It is served over soft coconut rice, which soaks up all the juices, providing a fragrant, slightly sweet base that ties the flavors together beautifully. Whether you’re planning a light dinner for family, a healthy meal prep option, or a dish to impress at gatherings, this recipe easily becomes a go-to for its simplicity and elegance.
The Appeal of Tropical Flavors in Everyday Cooking
Tropical flavors bring a unique dimension to everyday meals, and this dish embodies that perfectly. Lime brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the salmon, enhancing its natural flavors without overpowering them. The mango provides a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with creamy avocado, while jalapeño adds a mild kick, and fresh cilantro ties the salsa together with herbaceous freshness.
Coconut rice, meanwhile, offers a comforting, aromatic backdrop, transforming plain rice into something special with its light sweetness and creaminess. The blend of coconut milk and jasmine rice creates a lightly sticky texture perfect for soaking up the juices from the salsa and the tender salmon flakes, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.
The beauty of using these tropical flavors is that they bring a refreshing twist to meals, making them feel light yet indulgent. They also provide a break from heavier, sauce-laden dishes, offering a nourishing option that does not compromise on taste or satisfaction.
Health Benefits of This Nourishing Meal
Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa and Coconut Rice is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Salmon is an excellent source of lean protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health, reduce inflammation, and help maintain healthy skin. The grilling method keeps the salmon light while giving it a slight char that adds depth to its flavor without extra fats.
Mango and avocado are nutrient-dense fruits. Mangoes are high in vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin health, while avocados are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats that support heart health and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Avocados also contain fiber, potassium, and folate, contributing to overall wellness.
Coconut milk, used in the rice, contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may aid in energy production and metabolism. Jasmine rice, while providing comforting carbohydrates for energy, becomes more nutrient-rich with the addition of coconut milk, adding a layer of flavor that reduces the need for heavy sauces or extra oils.
Together, this dish becomes a powerhouse meal that is gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily adaptable for pescatarian diets while providing a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
A Versatile Dish for Every Occasion
This recipe shines in its versatility, making it suitable for various occasions:
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Weeknight dinners: The ease of preparation allows you to create a restaurant-quality meal within 40 minutes, ideal for a nourishing and colorful dinner after a busy day.
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Meal prep: The components of this dish store well, making it a vibrant option for healthy lunches throughout the week. The salmon can be enjoyed warm or cold over the coconut rice, and the mango avocado salsa maintains its freshness for a few days when stored properly.
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Entertaining: The vibrant colors and elegant plating of this dish make it perfect for impressing guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
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Seasonal celebrations: The tropical nature of this dish makes it ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or beachside meals, providing a light yet satisfying option for warm weather dining.
Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
To achieve the best results when preparing Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa and Coconut Rice:
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Marinate the salmon: Even a brief 15-minute marination with lime juice and zest will deeply infuse the salmon with bright citrus flavor.
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Do not overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and should remain moist and flaky inside. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side depending on the thickness of your fillets.
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Choose ripe mango and avocado: Ensure your mango is sweet and your avocado is creamy yet firm to create the perfect salsa texture.
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Use full-fat coconut milk: This enhances the richness of the rice without needing additional butter or cream.
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Fresh herbs are essential: Fresh cilantro brings an herbaceous finish that complements the tropical profile of the dish, adding both color and flavor.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a lightly oaked Chardonnay, which will complement the lime and mango notes while cutting through the richness of the salmon.
For side dishes, you may consider:
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A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette
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Steamed or grilled asparagus with a sprinkle of sea salt
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Lightly sautéed greens like spinach or kale with garlic and lime
If you wish to add a dessert, consider serving fresh fruit or a light coconut sorbet to continue the tropical theme without making the meal feel heavy.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try for Your Kitchen
Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa and Coconut Rice is a meal that not only nourishes your body but also your senses. Its bright, fresh flavors transport you to a tropical destination with every bite, while its balanced nutrition supports your wellness goals. It’s a dish that looks impressive yet is simple to prepare, making it an excellent addition to your regular rotation whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests.
Additionally, the ingredients are accessible and affordable, and the preparation does not require advanced cooking skills, ensuring this recipe is suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike. It invites you to experiment with flavors and seasonal fruits, allowing you to adapt and adjust while enjoying consistent, delicious results.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines health, flavor, and visual appeal, Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Avocado Salsa and Coconut Rice is an exceptional choice. It is light yet satisfying, making it ideal for lunch or dinner, especially during warmer months when you crave fresh, vibrant meals that are nourishing and energizing.
This dish will remind you how cooking with whole, fresh ingredients can transform your meals into moments of joy and creativity, making every bite an experience to savor. Whether you are a home cook looking to explore more seafood recipes or a food blogger sharing easy yet beautiful meals with your audience, this dish deserves a space in your kitchen and on your table.