Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor, you’ve got to try my Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa! This recipe is a delightful combination of spicy, smoky tilapia paired with the sweet and refreshing taste of mango salsa. It’s so easy to whip up, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve served this at BBQs, and it never fails to impress! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients for Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine! Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up my Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth!)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ripe mango, diced into small cubes
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (remove the seeds for less heat)
- Juice of 1 lime (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Make sure to prep your mango, onion, and jalapeño ahead of time so you can focus on the cooking when you’re ready to dive in!
How to Prepare Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Getting this dish ready is a breeze, and I promise it’ll be worth every minute! Let’s break it down step by step so you can nail it every time.
Preparing the Tilapia
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This is crucial for that beautiful blackened crust! While that’s heating up, mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. You want that spice blend to be well combined; it’s where all the flavor magic happens!
Next, take your tilapia fillets and rub that spice mixture generously on both sides. Don’t be shy—this is what gives your fish its amazing blackened flavor! Once the skillet or grill is nice and hot, add the olive oil. Careful, it might splatter a bit!
Now, it’s time to cook the tilapia. Place the seasoned fillets in the skillet or on the grill. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It should have that gorgeous charred look that screams deliciousness!
Making the Mango Salsa
While your tilapia is cooking, let’s whip up that vibrant mango salsa! In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, freshly squeezed lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle toss—this is where it all comes together! The sweetness of the mango with the zing of the lime is just heavenly.
Feel free to taste and adjust any ingredients to your liking. Want it spicier? Toss in more jalapeño! Prefer it sweeter? Add a touch more mango. Trust your palate! Once everything’s mixed, set it aside to let those flavors mingle while your tilapia finishes cooking. Oh, the aroma in your kitchen is going to be incredible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!
- Packed with Flavor: The bold spices in the blackened tilapia combined with the fresh, zesty mango salsa create a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy: This dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, this dish is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends! I want you to nail this Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa like a pro, so here are some tried-and-true tips to make sure everything turns out perfectly!
- Preheat, Preheat, Preheat: Don’t skip this step! A hot grill or skillet is essential for that beautiful sear and blackened crust. If it’s not hot enough, your fish won’t get that gorgeous char and may stick.
- Don’t Overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Once it flakes easily with a fork, it’s done. Overcooking can lead to dry fish, and nobody wants that!
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to tone down the cayenne pepper or jalapeño. This dish is all about what you love, so make it your own!
- Let the Salsa Marinate: If you have a few extra minutes, let your mango salsa sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious!
- Serve it Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. If you have leftovers, store the tilapia and salsa separately to keep everything fresh. The salsa can get a little mushy if it sits too long on the fish.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for a fantastic meal! I can’t wait for you to try it out!
Variations of Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with my Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Fruit Swap: Instead of mango, try using pineapple or peach! They both add a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy tilapia.
- Herb Mix: Switch up the cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a different twist. The fresh herbs can really brighten up the dish in unexpected ways!
- Spice It Up: Feeling bold? Add some chipotle powder to your spice mix for a smoky kick or even a splash of hot sauce in your salsa for extra heat!
- Grilled Vegetables: Toss some grilled zucchini or bell peppers into your mango salsa for added texture and flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
- Make It Tropical: Add diced avocado to the salsa for creaminess or even some shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that complements the fish perfectly.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, so don’t hesitate to get creative! You can tailor this dish to your tastes or what you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting, and let your taste buds lead the way!
Nutritional Information for Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
When you’re diving into my Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa, it’s nice to know what you’re fueling your body with! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one serving (1 fillet with salsa). Keep in mind, these numbers are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so it fits into a variety of diets. Enjoy every flavorful bite while feeling good about what you’re eating!
FAQ About Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry with a paper towel to help the spices stick better and achieve that delicious blackened crust.
What if I can’t find fresh mango?
No problem! You can use frozen mango chunks, just let them thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing them into the salsa. It’ll still taste amazing!
Can I bake the tilapia instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the tilapia! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the seasoned fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
How can I make the salsa ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the mango salsa a few hours in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully, but I recommend adding the cilantro just before serving for that fresh taste.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The blackened tilapia and mango salsa store well in the fridge for a couple of days. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to eat, and reheat the tilapia gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold for a tasty lunch!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve nailed the Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! Here are some of my favorite ideas that complement the vibrant flavors of this dish:
- Fluffy Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice is perfect for soaking up the juices from the tilapia and salsa. You could even add a dash of lime juice to the rice for an extra zing!
- Warm Tortillas: Serve it with warm corn or flour tortillas. They’re great for wrapping up the tilapia and salsa, turning each bite into a handheld delight!
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair your dish with a side of grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The smoky char from the grill ties everything together beautifully!
- Simple Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette is a fantastic way to balance the spiciness of the tilapia.
- Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans adds a hearty, protein-rich component that goes wonderfully with the flavors of this dish.
Whether you choose to keep it simple or go all out, these sides will elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying. Enjoy every bite with your friends and family—it’s a feast that’s sure to impress!
Print
Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa: 5 Flavorful Secrets
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish featuring tilapia seasoned with spices and paired with fresh mango salsa.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the tilapia fillets.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet or on the grill.
- Cook the tilapia for 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
- Serve the tilapia topped with mango salsa.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels to your taste.
- Serve with rice or tortillas for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with salsa
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Blackened Tilapia, Mango Salsa, Fish Recipe, Grilled Fish