Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?

Fresh mango is preferred for its firmer texture and fragrant flavor, but in a pinch, thawed frozen mango works. Just pat it dry before dicing, and expect a softer texture.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

You can use jarred ginger or even a pinch of ground ginger in an emergency, but fresh ginger really makes a difference in the salsa’s bright, aromatic flavor.

Is there a way to make it less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply omit the red pepper flakes, and the salsa will stay beautifully mild. You can always add a dash at the end if you want to taste before committing to heat.

Can I prepare this ahead for entertaining?

You can make it up to a few hours ahead—just keep it chilled, and add fresh herbs (and avocado, if using) right before serving for the freshest color and taste.

Citrusy Mango Ginger Salsa Recipe

Name: Citrusy Mango Ginger Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Fusion / American
Ingredients: 2 cups finely diced or chopped ripe but firm mango; 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh orange zest; 3 tablespoons finely minced red onion; 1 tablespoon minced peeled fresh ginger; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)

Description

This vibrant Citrus Mango Ginger Salsa combines sweet, juicy mangoes with zesty orange and lemon/lime, piquant ginger, fresh basil, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. It’s a refreshing and unique salsa that bursts with layers of citrusy, sweet, and spicy flavors—perfect as a dip, a topping for grilled proteins, or a bright addition to salads.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Fruit & Juice Base

2 cups finely diced or chopped ripe but firm mango
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh orange zest

Aromatics & Herbs

3 tablespoons finely minced red onion
1 tablespoon minced peeled fresh ginger
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Seasoning

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)

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Instructions

Prepare Fresh Ingredients: Carefully dice the mango, mince the red onion and ginger, zest the orange, and chop the basil to ensure all ingredients are uniformly sized for the best texture and presentation in the salsa.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add the mango, orange juice, lemon or lime juice, orange zest, red onion, minced ginger, chopped basil, extra virgin olive oil, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Mix and Season: Gently stir the mixture together to evenly distribute the flavors without mashing the mango. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salsa chill for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a fresh dip or topping!

Notes

Choose mangoes that are ripe but still firm for the best texture.
Adjust the amount of ginger and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
This salsa is best served fresh, but it can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Great as a topping for grilled fish, chicken, or tacos.

Nutrition

Serving Size: about 1/4 cup
Calories: 40
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 20mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg