Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa Recipe

Background and History

Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa is a delightful dish that combines the mild, flaky texture of tilapia with the vibrant, tropical flavors of fresh mango salsa. This dish is inspired by Caribbean and Latin American cuisines, where the combination of grilled fish and fruit salsas is a common and beloved tradition. The sweetness of the mango complements the savory, slightly smoky flavor of the grilled tilapia, creating a harmonious and refreshing meal perfect for warm weather.

Serves

4

Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

For the Grilled Tilapia

  • 4 tilapia fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Mango Salsa

  • 1 large mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  • Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Seasoning the Tilapia

  • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Brush the tilapia fillets with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are well coated on both sides.
  • Squeeze lime juice over the fillets.

Grilling the Tilapia

  • Place the tilapia fillets on the preheated grill.
  • Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Making the Mango Salsa

  • In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and fresh cilantro.
  • Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and add salt to taste.
  • Mix gently until well combined.

Serving

  • Place the grilled tilapia fillets on a serving platter.
  • Spoon the mango salsa over the top of each fillet.
  • Serve immediately with additional lime wedges if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Notes

  • Freshness: For the best flavor, use fresh tilapia and ripe mangoes.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the salsa to control the heat. Omit it if you prefer a milder salsa.
  • Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the tilapia in a grill pan or broil it in the oven.

Allergy Warning

  • This dish contains fish (tilapia). Ensure all ingredients are safe for those with fish allergies. If serving to someone with a cilantro allergy, omit the cilantro from the salsa.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa!

What do you eat mango salsa with?

Mango salsa is versatile and can be enjoyed with grilled fish, chicken, shrimp, or as a topping for tacos. It also makes a great dip for tortilla chips or a refreshing side for various dishes.

Is tilapia a healthy fish to eat?

Yes, tilapia is a healthy fish to eat. It is low in calories and fat, and it provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin B12, potassium, and selenium.

Is tilapia high in protein?

Yes, tilapia is high in protein, providing about 23 grams of protein per 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving, making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

What does grilled tilapia taste like?

Grilled tilapia has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a tender, flaky texture. Its taste is less “fishy” than some other types of fish, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle seafood flavor.

Is tilapia or salmon healthier?

Both tilapia and salmon are healthy choices, but they offer different benefits. Salmon is higher in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, while tilapia is lower in calories and fat. The choice depends on your dietary needs and preferences.

What makes tilapia taste better?

Tilapia can be enhanced with various seasonings, marinades, and cooking methods. Adding fresh herbs, citrus juice, and spices can boost its flavor. Cooking methods such as grilling, baking, or pan-searing can also enhance its taste.

What is the tastiest grilled fish?

Many consider salmon, swordfish, and mahi-mahi to be some of the tastiest fish for grilling due to their firm texture and rich flavor. However, taste is subjective, and tilapia, snapper, and grouper are also popular choices for grilling.

What is the tastiest fish to eat?

Taste preferences vary, but many people enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of salmon, the mild sweetness of halibut, and the delicate taste of sea bass. Other favorites include trout, tuna, and cod.

How to get fishy taste out of tilapia?

To reduce the fishy taste, soak tilapia fillets in milk for 20-30 minutes before cooking. Rinsing the fillets in cold water and patting them dry can also help. Additionally, using fresh tilapia and adding citrus or acidic ingredients can mask any remaining fishy flavor.

Does tilapia have dark meat?

Tilapia primarily has white meat with a mild flavor. It may have a small strip of darker meat along the center, which can be removed if desired, but it is generally not as pronounced as in some other fish.

Which tilapia is best to eat?

The best tilapia to eat is sustainably farmed tilapia, often labeled as “USDA-certified organic” or “Best Aquaculture Practices” (BAP) certified. These certifications ensure that the fish is raised in clean, environmentally friendly conditions.

Ignatius Thornfield
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Ignatius Thornfield, the discerning Recipe Connoisseur behind this site, is a culinary aficionado dedicated to transforming pet dining into an art form. With an exquisite taste for flavors and a keen eye for nutritious combinations, Ignatius shares a curated collection of gourmet pet recipes. His site is a sanctuary for pet owners seeking to indulge their furry friends with delectable and health-conscious meals. Ignatius's expertise in the realm of pet cuisine is evident in the sophisticated and thoughtfully crafted content he presents. For those who appreciate the finer culinary experiences for their pets, Ignatius Thornfield's site is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.