Should I put cilantro in my salsa?

Absolutely—cilantro is the ingredient that transforms a simple fruit salsa into something bright and flavorful. In Fresh Mango Salsa with Cilantro, it adds a herbal, slightly peppery note that lifts the whole dish. While some people find cilantro tastes “soapy,” most agree that it balances the sweetness of mango and the tang of lime perfectly. If you’re serving guests who aren’t sure about cilantro, offer it on the side so everyone can customize their salsa.

What ingredients go in mango salsa?

Classic Fresh Mango Salsa with Cilantro includes ripe mangoes, fresh cilantro, red onion, jalapeño or bell pepper, lime juice, and salt. Many families add extra touches like diced cucumber, avocado, or pineapple, depending on what’s in season. The essentials, though, are juicy mango and plenty of fresh herbs—these are what make the salsa pop with color and flavor.

What pairs well with mango salsa?

Mango salsa is one of the most versatile side dishes you can make. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish—especially on taco night. Spoon it over pork, salmon, or even a grain bowl for a burst of sweet and savory flavor. It’s also delicious with tortilla chips, pita, or as a topping for salads and avocado toast. In our family, there’s never a wrong time to serve Fresh Mango Salsa with Cilantro!

Can you can cilantro in salsa?

While it’s possible to can salsa, cilantro is a delicate herb that loses much of its fresh, vibrant flavor during the canning process. For the best-tasting Fresh Mango Salsa with Cilantro, add the cilantro just before serving, even if you’ve made the salsa ahead. If you do plan to preserve salsa, consider adding the cilantro fresh after opening the jar for maximum flavor and color.

Fresh Mango Salsa with Cilantro – 7 Tips for the Best Salsa

Description

Fresh Mango Salsa with Cilantro isn’t just a dip—it’s a burst of summer and a family ritual, bridging cultures and generations at our crowded NYC dinner table. Sweet mango, tangy lime, a pop of cilantro—this is sunshine in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and diced
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
1 jalapeño (or red bell pepper for mild), seeded and minced
1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Juice of 1 lime (plus extra to taste)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Optional: 1 small avocado, diced
Optional: 1/2 cup diced cucumber or radish
Optional: 1/2 cup black beans or pineapple, diced

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Instructions

Wash, peel, and dice the mangoes into bite-sized cubes.
Finely dice the red onion. For a milder flavor, soak in cold water for 10 minutes and drain.
Mince the jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat) or use red bell pepper for a kid-friendly option.
Chop fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems.
In a large bowl, combine mango, onion, jalapeño or bell pepper, and cilantro.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with salt. Add any optional mix-ins now (avocado, cucumber, black beans, pineapple).
Gently toss everything together to combine.
Taste and adjust with more lime juice or salt as needed.
Let salsa sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to let flavors mingle.
Serve with tortilla chips, over tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or as a salad topper.

Notes

For best flavor, use perfectly ripe mangoes and fresh cilantro. To make ahead, store without cilantro and add just before serving. Leftovers are delicious over grilled meats, salads, or stirred into Greek yogurt. Customize with avocado, cucumber, or black beans for extra variety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 60
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg