Grilled Salmon with Mango Coconut Rice

Indulge in the flavors of the tropics with this mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Salmon Mango Coconut Rice. This dish brings together the succulent taste of grilled salmon, the sweet freshness of mango salsa, and the creamy richness of coconut-infused rice, creating a melody of tastes that will transport you to an island paradise right at your dinner table.

The combination of tender grilled salmon, vibrant mango salsa, and fragrant coconut rice is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The juicy mango adds a burst of sunshine to every bite, while the coconut rice provides a velvety backdrop that perfectly complements the zesty salmon and sweet salsa. Every forkful is a celebration of summer, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to add more variety to your meals, this Grilled Salmon Mango Coconut Rice recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its easy preparation and exotic flavors, it’s a dish that promises to bring a taste of vacation to your dining experience, no matter the time of year. So, fire up the grill, whip up a bowl of mango salsa, and get ready to savor a culinary delight that captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Tropical Flavors: Enjoy a burst of tropical flavors with juicy salmon, sweet mango salsa, and creamy coconut rice.
• Versatile Options: Easily swap salmon for other fish or tofu, and mango for peaches or pineapple to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Store components separately for up to four days, allowing the flavors to blend and intensify over time.
• Refreshing Pairings: Serve with a light salad, cucumber slaw, or a chilled beverage like rosé or sparkling coconut water for a complete summer dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Salmon with Mango Coconut Rice Recipe

• Vacation Vibes at Home: This recipe brings the taste of a tropical vacation to your dinner table with juicy salmon, creamy coconut rice, and a sweet mango salsa.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters or those who aren’t big fans of fish love this dish, making it a hit with the whole family.
• Summer Freshness: The use of ripe mango in the salsa adds a burst of summer sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Each component can be stored separately, allowing for easy meal prep and quick assembly on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Swaps: You can easily switch up the protein with fish like mahi mahi or tofu for a vegetarian option, and swap mango with peaches or pineapple in the salsa.
• Global Flavors: The combination of coconut rice, mango salsa, and grilled salmon offers a delightful blend of flavors inspired by Asian, Caribbean, and African cuisines.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks, making it versatile for different occasions.

Ingredients for Grilled Salmon with Mango Coconut Rice

For the Salmon

• 2 teaspoons finely grated lime zest
• 45 millilitres freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 45 millilitres extra virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
• 4 skinless salmon fillets (approximately 170 grams each)
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Coconut Rice

• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 255 grams jasmine rice, thoroughly rinsed and drained
• 300 millilitres canned coconut milk
• 360 millilitres coconut water

For the Mango-Avocado Salsa

• 15 millilitres coconut water
• 50 grams red onion, rinsed and drained, finely chopped
• 15 millilitres extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large avocado, peeled and diced
• 15 millilitres fresh lime juice
• 15 grams fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
• Sea salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 120 grams red bell pepper, finely chopped

Pro Tips for Grilled Salmon with Mango Coconut Rice

For the best flavor, marinate the salmon fillets in the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, and garlic mixture for at least 15–30 minutes on each side. This not only infuses the fish with delicious flavors but also helps keep it moist during grilling.

When making the coconut rice, opt for a combination of coconut water and canned coconut milk to cook the jasmine rice. This will result in a creamier texture and a more pronounced coconut flavor. Make sure to simmer the rice covered until the liquid is absorbed, then fluff it and let it rest for the perfect consistency.

If mangoes are not available, feel free to substitute with pineapple or papaya in the salsa. These fruits will provide a similar freshness and sweetness that complements the grilled salmon beautifully. Additionally, consider adding extra lime wedges, fresh cilantro, or thinly sliced jalapeño to enhance the flavors and add a pop of brightness to each serving.

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Mango Coconut Rice

Step 1: Prepare Salmon Marinade

Whisk olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Add salmon fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. Refrigerate covered for 15-30 minutes, then flip and marinate for another 15-30 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Salmon

Preheat grill to medium-high heat for the last 10 minutes of marinating. Lightly oil grill grates. Grill salmon fillets for about 3 minutes on each side until cooked through and flaky, turning once.

Step 3: Prepare Coconut Rice

Combine coconut water, coconut milk, jasmine rice, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff rice with a fork, and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Mango-Avocado Salsa

Combine diced mango, red bell pepper, coriander, red onion, and diced avocado in a medium mixing bowl. Drizzle with lime juice, olive oil, and coconut water. Toss gently to coat, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve the Dish

Divide the coconut rice among serving plates. Place a grilled salmon fillet on top of each portion and spoon mango-avocado salsa generously over the salmon. Serve promptly while still warm.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish of Grilled Salmon Mango Coconut Rice, it is recommended to keep each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon can be stored for up to two days, allowing it to absorb more marinade flavors and improve in taste over time. The coconut rice stays fresh for up to four days in the fridge and can be reheated with a splash of water to maintain its creamy texture. For the mango salsa, store it in a tightly sealed jar and consume within one day for the best avocado texture and overall freshness.

For variations, consider swapping the salmon with other fish options like mahi mahi or sea bass, or opt for grilled tofu for a vegetarian alternative. When ripe mangoes are not available, peaches or pineapple can be used in the salsa as delicious substitutes. Additionally, basmati or brown rice can be used instead of jasmine, though jasmine rice complements the coconut flavor exceptionally well. Enhance the dish with a side of a light green salad, cucumber slaw, or thinly sliced chili for added spice. Accompany this tropical meal with a chilled rosé or sparkling coconut water for a refreshing dining experience reminiscent of summer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different type of fish, mahi mahi, sea bass, or even grilled tofu can be excellent substitutes for salmon. Each brings a unique flavor profile to the dish while maintaining the tropical essence of the meal.

In the absence of ripe mangoes, peaches or pineapple can be used in the salsa to maintain that sweet and tangy balance. These fruits offer a similar vibrant and juicy texture that complements the salmon and coconut rice beautifully.

While jasmine rice is recommended for its aromatic quality, basmati rice or brown rice can be substituted if preferred. Each type of rice will slightly alter the texture and flavor of the coconut rice, so choose based on your personal preference or what you have available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

For a visually stunning presentation, consider serving the grilled salmon on a bed of creamy coconut rice, topped with a generous spoonful of vibrant mango salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor. The combination of textures and flavors will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.

To elevate this dish further, try serving the grilled salmon mango coconut rice in hollowed-out coconut shells for a fun and creative presentation. Not only does it enhance the tropical theme, but it also adds a touch of whimsy to your dinner table. Your guests will be impressed by the unique serving vessel and will enjoy scooping out each delicious bite from the coconut shell.

FAQs for Grilled Salmon with Mango Coconut Rice

Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use mahi mahi, sea bass, or even grilled tofu as alternatives to salmon.

How long can I store the components of this dish in the refrigerator?

The salmon can be stored for up to two days, while the coconut rice can be refrigerated for up to four days. The mango salsa should be used within one day for the best avocado texture.

If I don’t have ripe mangoes, what other fruits can I use in the salsa?

You can use peaches or pineapple as alternatives to mango in the salsa. These fruits also provide a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

How should I prepare the grill before cooking the salmon?

Preheat the grill and brush the grates with olive oil before placing the salmon on top. This helps create a nonstick surface and ensures even cooking of the fish.

Conclusion

The vibrant flavors of Grilled Salmon Mango Coconut Rice will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. The juicy salmon, refreshing mango salsa, and creamy coconut rice come together in a harmony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking to bring a taste of vacation to your weeknight dinner or impress guests with a flavorful meal, this dish is sure to delight all who try it.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Swap out the salmon for your favorite fish or tofu to suit your preferences, or experiment with different fruits in the salsa for a fun twist. The versatility of Grilled Salmon Mango Coconut Rice makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, and the bright, fresh flavors will leave your taste buds singing. So fire up the grill, whip up a batch of coconut rice, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this tropical delight.