I absolutely love cooking with fresh ingredients, and one of my favorite dishes to whip up is Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice. This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that never fails to impress my family and friends. The bright, zesty lime paired with the rich and buttery salmon makes a mouthwatering experience. Add in the refreshing avocado mango salsa and creamy coconut rice, and you have a meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Why I Love Grilled Lime Salmon
Salmon is one of those fish that can stand up to bold flavors. I remember the first time I tried grilled salmon; it was love at first bite. The smoky char from the grill combined with the tangy lime juice was simply irresistible. Plus, salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Ingredients for Grilled Lime Salmon
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets, skin on
- 2 limes, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Avocado Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Coconut Rice:
How to Prepare Grilled Lime Salmon
The key to flavorful grilled salmon is the marinade. I mix lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade is so simple but adds an incredible depth of flavor to the salmon. I usually let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for a couple of hours really allows the flavors to soak in.
Making the Avocado Mango Salsa
While the salmon is marinating, I prepare the avocado mango salsa. This salsa is vibrant and fresh, perfect for topping the grilled salmon. I combine diced avocado, diced mango, chopped red onion, and minced jalapeño in a bowl. Adding the lime juice and a pinch of salt ties everything together beautifully. The sweetness of the mango and the creaminess of the avocado create a perfect balance.
Cooking the Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is the perfect side dish for this meal. I start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, I combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt in a pot. I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is fluffy and creamy. The coconut milk adds a lovely richness that pairs well with the salmon and salsa.
Grilling the Salmon
Once the salmon has marinated and the rice is cooking, it’s time to fire up the grill. I preheat my grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. I place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down, and cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done. The smell of the grilling salmon is simply heavenly.
Plating the Dish
To serve, I spoon a generous portion of coconut rice onto each plate. Then, I carefully place a grilled salmon fillet on top of the rice. Finally, I add a hearty scoop of avocado mango salsa over the salmon. The colors are vibrant, and the flavors are a perfect match.
Tips for Best Grilled Salmon
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon makes a world of difference. Look for fillets that are bright in color and have a mild smell.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked fish.
- Use a Fish Spatula: A fish spatula makes it easier to flip the salmon without breaking it apart.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. I recommend keeping the salmon and coconut rice separate from the salsa. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon should be consumed within 2-3 days, while the coconut rice can last up to a week. The salsa is best eaten fresh but can be kept for a day or two.
Why This Dish is Great for Meal Prep
Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice is perfect for meal prep. The salmon can be grilled ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The coconut rice reheats well, and the salsa can be made fresh when you are ready to eat. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is not just delicious; it is also incredibly nutritious. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart health benefits. Additionally, salmon provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Including salmon in your diet can support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health.
Enjoying Your Grilled Lime Salmon
Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice has become a staple in my home. The combination of flavors is refreshing, and the dish is easy to prepare. Whether I am hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this meal always brings smiles to the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delicious flavors for yourself.