Easy Summer Mango Salsa

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Juicy, vibrant, and packed with fresh flavors, this Easy Summer Mango Salsa is your go-to dish when you’re craving something light, bright, and incredibly tasty. Bursting with ripe mango, crisp cucumber, zesty red onion, and a pop of cilantro, this salsa is not just a snack—it’s a celebration of summer in every bite. Whether you’re scooping it with chips, spooning it over grilled chicken or fish, or adding it to tacos, it brings color and tropical flair to any plate.

What makes this mango salsa special is its refreshing balance of sweetness, crunch, and a subtle kick of lime that ties everything together. It’s the perfect addition to your backyard BBQs, beach picnics, or even a quick weeknight dinner that needs a punch of flavor. Plus, it comes together in minutes with just a handful of ingredients, making it as effortless as it is irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Summer Mango Salsa

• It’s fresh, colorful, and full of flavor.
• Requires only a few simple ingredients.
• Comes together in under 15 minutes.
• Versatile: great as a dip, topping, or side.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this mango salsa, all you need are a few essential kitchen tools: a sharp chef’s knife, a sturdy cutting board, a mixing bowl, and a spoon or spatula. The knife is crucial for getting clean, even mango and cucumber cubes. A quality cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing safely. The mixing bowl should be large enough to toss all your ingredients without spilling. And a spoon or spatula helps you combine everything gently without bruising the fruit.

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Preparation Tips

Choose ripe but firm mangoes for easy dicing and the best balance of sweetness and texture. Overripe mangoes can become mushy and watery, which changes the consistency of the salsa. When chopping red onion, dice it finely so it blends well without overpowering the other ingredients. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, you can soak it briefly in cold water to mellow the flavor. And always taste and adjust your lime juice and salt before serving—it makes all the difference!

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Ingredients for Easy Summer Mango Salsa

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 English cucumber, diced
• 1 small jalapeño, seeds removed and minced (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Step 1: Dice the Mangoes

Start by peeling the mangoes and cutting the flesh away from the pit. Dice the mango into small, bite-sized cubes. The smaller the pieces, the easier they are to scoop with chips or spoon over dishes.

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Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Finely dice the red onion, cucumber, and jalapeño. Make sure the pieces are similar in size to the mango cubes for a balanced texture. If you’re not a fan of heat, omit the jalapeño or use less to suit your taste.

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Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, add the diced mango, red onion, cucumber, and jalapeño. Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro and give everything a gentle toss.

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Step 4: Add Lime Juice and Seasonings

Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the salsa mixture. Add salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Toss again to make sure everything is evenly coated and flavored.

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Step 5: Let It Rest

For best flavor, let the salsa sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, on top of grilled chicken or fish, or as a vibrant addition to tacos, burrito bowls, or salads. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

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Notes

This Easy Summer Mango Salsa is incredibly customizable. You can add ingredients like diced avocado for creaminess, corn for extra sweetness, or tomatoes for a more classic salsa vibe. If you want to boost the protein, toss in some black beans. The key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients—especially ripe mangoes. This dish is also a great make-ahead option, as it tastes even better after the flavors have marinated for a bit.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using overripe mangoes: They can make the salsa too mushy and watery.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the salsa to sit helps the flavors blend beautifully.
• Overpowering with onion: A little raw onion goes a long way; chop it fine and balance with lime juice.
• Forgetting to taste-test: Adjust the lime and salt at the end to your liking—it can drastically improve the flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Store the mango salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The acidity of the lime helps preserve the freshness, but keep in mind that the texture may soften over time. For best quality, avoid freezing as the fresh ingredients may become mushy once thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition (per 1/2 cup serving)

• Calories: 70 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sugars: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 100mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it often tastes better after it sits for 15–30 minutes. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What type of mango is best for salsa?

Ataulfo (honey) or Kent mangoes are ideal—they’re sweet, less fibrous, and easy to dice.

Can I add other fruits to this salsa?

Absolutely! Pineapple, peach, or even strawberries make great additions.

Is this mango salsa spicy?

It depends on your jalapeño. For less heat, remove the seeds or omit it entirely.

How do I keep my mango salsa from getting watery?

Use firm, ripe mangoes and salt just before serving to avoid pulling out too much moisture.

Can I use frozen mango?

It’s best to use fresh mango, but if you must use frozen, thaw and drain it well before dicing.

Is mango salsa keto-friendly?

Mango is higher in natural sugar, so it’s not ideal for strict keto diets.

What can I serve mango salsa with?

Chips, grilled meats, fish tacos, rice bowls, or even as a topping for scrambled eggs.

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Conclusion

Easy Summer Mango Salsa is a bright, refreshing, and healthy addition to your summer menu. With its vibrant colors, sweet and zesty flavor, and simple preparation, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a regular spot in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick way to elevate your meals, this mango salsa delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

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