Summer Mango Salsa

This delightful salsa recipe holds a special place in our hearts as it has become a favorite among our family and friends. It’s also a cherished part of my Mexican Cooking class. Inspired by the flavors of Great Good Food, this salsa offers a vibrant blend of sweet and savory, making it a versatile and irresistible condiment. While ripe mangoes might be challenging to find in certain regions, we’ve discovered a clever alternative using jarred refrigerated mango strips from the produce section, or seasonal peaches as a substitute. This salsa is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips, but its versatility doesn’t end there. It shines as a summery topping for grilled pork tenderloin, adding a burst of freshness to any meal.

YIELD: Makes about 1 quart

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups diced mango, or peaches
• 1 cup diced tomato, seeds removed
• 1 bell pepper (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, finely minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive)
• 4 tablespoons vinegar (red wine, apple cider, or sherry)
• 2 limes, zested and juiced
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• Hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco), a few dashes to taste
• Salt and pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together, creating a colorful and flavorful fusion of diced mango or peaches, tomato, bell pepper, red onion, minced jalapeño pepper, and garlic.
2. Add ground cumin, oil, vinegar, lime zest, and lime juice to the mixture, enhancing the salsa with zesty and aromatic notes.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro, infusing the salsa with its fresh and vibrant herbal essence.
4. For those who appreciate a hint of spiciness, a few dashes of hot pepper sauce can be added to taste, elevating the flavor profile.
5. Season the salsa with salt and pepper, striking the perfect balance of flavors.
6. Cover the bowl and let the salsa chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows the ingredients to meld together, intensifying the taste and creating a harmonious blend of textures.
7. When ready to serve, present the salsa with a basket of crispy tortilla chips, inviting everyone to indulge in the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.

TIPS:

• Chilling Time: Allowing the salsa to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours is essential for the flavors to meld together and reach their full potential. However, for even better results, you can refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight.

• Storage and Serving: Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for a couple of days and can be enjoyed as a refreshing topping for various dishes, such as grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone side.

• Presentation: To make your salsa visually appealing, choose a colorful mix of ingredients. The vibrant colors of mangoes or peaches, tomatoes, bell peppers, and cilantro create an appetizing and enticing sight.

• Experiment and Personalize: Don’t be afraid to experiment with this salsa recipe. Add your favorite ingredients, such as diced avocado, pineapple, or even black beans, to give it your own unique twist.

This salsa recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize the size of the dice and adjust the spiciness to suit your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, having a cozy movie night, or grilling up a storm in the backyard, this versatile salsa will be a crowd-pleaser that brightens up any occasion. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the joy it brings to your culinary adventures!