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What Makes Mango Tomato Salsa Special?
Mango tomato salsa is where tropical sweetness meets zesty spice. It’s a vibrant, colorful, and flavor-packed twist on classic salsa that combines sweet mango, fresh tomato, spicy jalapeño, and citrusy lime into one irresistible bite.
This salsa is incredibly versatile—refreshing enough for summer parties, bold enough to serve with grilled fish or chicken, and simple enough to whip up in minutes. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, alcohol-free, and made from whole, clean ingredients.
Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade salsa is free of preservatives, refined sugars, and excess sodium. It’s garden-fresh and perfect for every table, from backyard barbecues to elegant dinners.
Ingredients & Substitutions
🌿 Ingredient Breakdown
| Ingredient | Role in the Recipe | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe mango | Sweetness and tropical flair | Use Ataulfo or Kent mangoes for best flavor |
| Tomatoes | Juiciness and acidity | Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well |
| Red onion | Adds sharp bite and color | Sub with white onion or shallots if desired |
| Jalapeño | Heat and bold spice | Adjust heat by removing seeds or using serrano |
| Fresh cilantro | Herbal freshness | Optional, or use parsley for a milder herb |
| Lime juice | Zingy citrus balance | Must be fresh—not bottled |
| Salt | Brings out natural flavors | Sea salt or Himalayan preferred |
| Black pepper | Subtle warmth | Optional |
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Yield: About 3 cups
🔪 Step 1: Dice the Mango
Peel and dice 2 large ripe mangoes into small cubes. You want the mango to be firm but sweet. Avoid overly soft fruit that might get mushy in the salsa.
🍅 Step 2: Chop the Tomatoes
Dice 3 medium tomatoes into small chunks. Remove excess seeds or pulp for a less watery salsa. Roma tomatoes work best.
🧅 Step 3: Prep the Remaining Ingredients
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Finely chop ½ small red onion.
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Mince 1 fresh jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat).
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Chop ¼ cup fresh cilantro.
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Juice 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons).
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Add salt (½ teaspoon) and pepper to taste.
🥣 Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine mango, tomato, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to combine, being careful not to mash the mango.
❄️ Step 5: Chill and Marinate
Let the salsa rest in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Tips for Success
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Use ripe but firm mangoes: Too soft and they’ll turn mushy; too hard and they lack sweetness.
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Balance the lime: Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste to avoid overpowering the fruit.
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Control the heat: Add more jalapeño or try a serrano if you like it spicy.
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Serve chilled: The flavors are most vibrant when cold or at room temperature.
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Avoid excess liquid: Use a slotted spoon if the salsa becomes too juicy.
Flavor Variations
Looking to mix it up? Try these tropical-inspired tweaks:
🔸 Pineapple Mango Salsa
Swap half the mango for diced pineapple. Adds extra tropical sweetness.
🔸 Grilled Mango Salsa
Grill the mango and tomato halves before chopping for a smoky edge.
🔸 Cucumber Twist
Add diced cucumber for crunch and freshness—great for hydration!
🔸 Avocado Addition
Add ½ diced avocado for creaminess. Stir in just before serving.
🔸 Caribbean Kick
Add a pinch of cumin, and a splash of fresh orange juice for an island vibe.
Serving Suggestions
This mango tomato salsa is incredibly versatile. Here are some crowd-favorite ways to enjoy it:
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Fish tacos: The sweet and spicy balance is a perfect match for flaky white fish.
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Grilled chicken or tofu: Adds a burst of flavor to grilled proteins.
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With tortilla chips: An addictive party appetizer!
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Over rice or quinoa bowls: Adds freshness to grain-based meals.
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Stuffed into wraps: A fun addition to vegan or meat wraps for added crunch and flavor.
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On avocado toast: A unique and flavorful topping for breakfast or brunch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
🧊 How to Store
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Stir before each use as juices may separate.
❌ Not Freezer Friendly
Because of the fresh tomato and mango texture, freezing is not recommended.
🕒 Make Ahead
Best if served within 24 hours of making. The flavor improves slightly after resting, but texture is optimal when fresh.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This salsa is not just tasty—it’s also full of good-for-you nutrients:
| Nutrient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | Boosts immunity (mango, tomato, lime) |
| Antioxidants | Fights inflammation (tomato, cilantro) |
| Fiber | Supports digestion (mango, onion) |
| Low in fat | Naturally low in calories and fat |
| No added sugar | Naturally sweet from mango |
| Hydrating | High water content from mango and tomato |
This recipe is a smart choice for anyone looking for a healthy, vegan, and gluten-free option to spice up their meals.
FAQs About Mango Tomato Salsa
Can I make this salsa spicier?
Yes! Add extra jalapeños or switch to spicier peppers like serrano or habanero.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Fresh is best, but in a pinch, fire-roasted canned tomatoes (drained well) can work. Choose salt-free and no added sugar.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Due to the mango’s natural sugar content, it’s not ideal for strict keto diets but can be adapted by reducing the mango amount.
What mango varieties work best?
Ataulfo (honey mango) or Kent mangoes are ideal due to their sweetness and low fiber. Avoid stringy mango types.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, but lime is more traditional and brings out the tropical flavors better.
Is this safe for meal prep?
Yes—make it the night before for gatherings, but serve within 24–48 hours for best texture.
Final Thoughts
Mango Tomato Salsa is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy—bursting with color, freshness, and bold flavors that elevate any dish. It’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and impresses every time.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, topping your favorite tacos, or just snacking with chips on a sunny day, this salsa adds a tropical flair that can’t be beat. It’s healthy, plant-based, and free from processed ingredients—a true celebration of real food.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite salsa of all time!
