Pineapple Mango Salsa

There’s something incredibly refreshing and vibrant about a fresh fruit salsa, and Pineapple Mango Salsa is one of my all-time favorites. Bursting with tropical sweetness, zesty lime, and a hint of heat, this salsa is a perfect way to brighten up any meal. Whether you’re looking to add a flavorful topping to grilled chicken, fish, or tacos, or simply want a delicious dip for chips, this recipe fits the bill. It’s fresh, easy to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love the idea of combining sweet and spicy flavors, this Pineapple Mango Salsa will become your new go-to. The natural sweetness of ripe mangoes and juicy pineapple is perfectly balanced by the tanginess of lime juice and the subtle heat from jalapeños. It’s a salsa that can brighten up even the simplest dishes and impress your guests with minimal effort. Additionally, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and made entirely from fresh fruits and vegetables, making it a healthy and wholesome option.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile — you can use it as a topping for your favorite proteins, a side for tortilla chips, or even as a vibrant addition to salads and grain bowls. The tropical flavors are especially wonderful in the warmer months but can bring a much-needed burst of sunshine any time of year.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (about 1 small pineapple or canned pineapple chunks, drained)
• 1 cup ripe mango, diced (about 1 medium mango)
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

How To Make Pineapple Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Begin by peeling and dicing your fresh pineapple and mango into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in your salsa. The smaller the dice, the better your salsa will come together with all the ingredients blending harmoniously.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Herbs

Finely chop the red bell pepper and red onion. These add a crisp texture and a mild sharpness that complements the sweetness of the fruit. Remove the seeds from the jalapeño to control the heat level, then finely chop it. Next, roughly chop the fresh cilantro leaves — this herb adds a burst of freshness.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Add Lime Juice and Season

Pour the fresh lime juice over the salsa mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper, then adjust according to your preference. The lime juice not only adds brightness but also helps meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to marry and intensify. Serve chilled or at room temperature with your favorite dishes.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe mangoes and sweet pineapple for the best flavor. If your fruit is underripe, the salsa will be less sweet and flavorful.
• If you prefer less heat, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. For more spice, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• For extra zest, add a teaspoon of finely grated lime zest along with the juice.
• Make sure to finely chop the onion and jalapeño to avoid overpowering bites.
• If your salsa is too watery, gently drain excess liquid before serving or add a tablespoon of finely chopped cucumber to absorb moisture.
• Serve with crispy tortilla chips, grilled seafood, chicken, or as a topping on tacos or salads.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Avocado: For a creamy texture, gently fold in diced avocado just before serving.
• Use Different Peppers: Swap jalapeño for milder bell peppers or hotter serrano peppers depending on your heat preference.
• Include Cucumber: Add diced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
• Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Sweeten it Up: If your fruit isn’t very sweet, add a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup.
• Herb Swap: Try swapping cilantro with fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Add Black Beans: For a heartier salsa, add a half cup of rinsed and drained black beans.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Pineapple Mango Salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. Because the salsa contains fresh fruit, it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe to preserve the vibrant flavors and texture. Before serving leftovers, give it a quick stir and taste; you can add a little more lime juice or seasoning if needed. Avoid freezing this salsa as the fruit’s texture will be compromised upon thawing.

FAQ

Can I use frozen pineapple or mango for this salsa?

Yes, you can use frozen pineapple or mango, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using. Excess water from thawed fruit can make the salsa watery, so pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to maintain the best texture.

Is this salsa spicy?

The heat level depends on how much jalapeño you add and whether you include the seeds. You can easily adjust the spiciness by reducing the jalapeño or omitting it altogether if you prefer a mild salsa.

What dishes pair well with Pineapple Mango Salsa?

This salsa pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, shrimp. It’s also fantastic as a topping for tacos, alongside tortilla chips as a dip, or stirred into grain bowls and salads for a burst of tropical flavor.

Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just keep in mind that the flavors intensify as it sits, so tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving is a good idea.

Conclusion

Pineapple Mango Salsa is a vibrant, flavorful, and versatile addition to any meal. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, it brings a fresh burst of tropical goodness that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Easy to prepare with just a handful of fresh ingredients, it’s a fantastic recipe to keep on hand for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, using it as a dip, or adding it to your favorite dishes, this salsa will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the bright, sunny flavors all year round!