The Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice is a bright, tropical-inspired dish that brings sunshine to your plate. The salmon is infused with a zesty lime marinade, perfectly grilled until it flakes beautifully, and served over creamy coconut rice that balances the bold citrus flavors.
Complementing the dish is a refreshing salsa made with ripe mango, creamy avocado, and vibrant red onion, all tossed in lime juice for a sweet and tangy burst. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party or simply want to enjoy a light, flavorful meal, this recipe brings together health, color, and taste in every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
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Zest and juice of 2 limes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon cumin
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Mango Salsa:
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1 ripe mango, diced
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1 ripe avocado, diced
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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Juice of 1 lime
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coconut Rice:
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1 cup jasmine rice
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1 cup coconut milk
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1 cup water
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1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
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In a bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let sit for at least 20 minutes.
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While the salmon is marinating, prepare the coconut rice. In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender. Let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
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In a medium bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and set aside.
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Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and grill marks appear.
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Serve the grilled salmon over coconut rice and top with generous spoonfuls of avocado mango salsa.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 530 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice is a dish that effortlessly combines the zesty brightness of lime-marinated salmon with the rich, creamy texture of coconut rice and the refreshing sweetness of a tropical salsa. This flavorful trio is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutrient-rich meal that fits beautifully into a balanced diet. Each component contributes something special to the final dish, making it a perfect choice for warm-weather dining, family dinners, or impressing guests at your next gathering.
This vibrant recipe is inspired by coastal cuisines that favor bold, fresh ingredients, think Baja California, Caribbean islands, and Southeast Asian shores. It’s where the grill meets the tropics. The salmon is marinated in lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and warm spices like cumin and chili powder, creating a citrusy, slightly smoky profile. This quick marinade not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the fish, ensuring a flaky and moist texture once grilled.
The Star of the Plate: Lime-Grilled Salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest protein options available, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins. When grilled, it develops a beautiful char that locks in moisture while adding complexity and depth. Lime juice cuts through the richness of the fish, brightening the flavors and harmonizing with the tropical elements of the dish.
The marinade is straightforward: fresh lime juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder yet it delivers remarkable results. The balance of acid, fat, and spice enhances the natural flavor of the salmon without overwhelming it. Grilling the fish gives it a satisfying texture and charred flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft, silky coconut rice and juicy salsa.
Coconut Rice: A Creamy, Fragrant Base
The coconut rice serves as a luxurious base, balancing the boldness of the lime-marinated salmon and the sweet, zesty notes from the salsa. Made with jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and a touch of salt, it’s aromatic, slightly sweet, and incredibly creamy. This type of rice is commonly found in Thai and Caribbean cuisines and pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins and spicy or fruity salsas.
Coconut milk adds a subtle richness and exotic flavor that makes the rice taste indulgent without the use of butter or cream. It’s also naturally dairy-free, making this dish suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet.
The Tropical Accent: Avocado Mango Salsa
The avocado mango salsa is what truly ties the dish together. It provides brightness, freshness, and texture. Diced ripe mango adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color, while creamy avocado provides richness and healthy fats. Red onion adds a crisp bite, and cilantro brings an herbaceous note that lifts the entire dish. Lime juice unifies the components with a touch of acidity, making this salsa not just a topping but a flavor amplifier.
This salsa isn’t limited to salmon; it also works well with shrimp, chicken, or even as a dip with tortilla chips. Its versatility is another reason this recipe is a standout.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Let’s break down some of the key health benefits:
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Salmon is packed with omega-3s, which support brain health and reduce inflammation. It’s also a complete protein that helps build and repair tissues.
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Avocados contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium, which help regulate blood pressure.
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Mangoes are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and skin vitality.
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Coconut milk adds beneficial medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support energy metabolism.
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Cilantro and lime contribute antioxidants and detoxifying compounds.
Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal with healthy fats, lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and plenty of fiber and micronutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served fresh off the grill with the coconut rice still warm and fluffy and the salsa freshly mixed. It pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. For drinks, consider a sparkling lime water, tropical fruit smoothie, or white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the citrus and seafood flavors.
If you’re looking to elevate the presentation for a dinner party, you can serve the dish in shallow bowls, layering the rice, then the salmon fillet, and topping it generously with the avocado mango salsa. A lime wedge on the side and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro finish the plate beautifully.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This recipe is surprisingly meal-prep friendly. The coconut rice can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to four days. The salmon can be marinated up to 12 hours ahead of grilling. Just make sure to keep it covered and refrigerated. The avocado mango salsa is best made fresh but can be stored for a few hours if tightly sealed and kept cool add the avocado last to prevent browning.
If you have leftovers, store each component separately in airtight containers. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop for the rice, and gently warm the salmon to avoid drying it out. The salsa should be added fresh to retain its vibrant taste and texture.
Why This Recipe Works
There’s a reason why this dish continues to be a fan favorite among food bloggers and home cooks alike, it delivers in every category:
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Flavor: The combination of lime, coconut, mango, and avocado hits all the right flavor notes: savory, sweet, tangy, and creamy.
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Texture: The crispy edges of grilled salmon, soft rice, and juicy salsa create a pleasing variety in every bite.
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Color: This is one of the most visually stunning dishes you can make with minimal effort. It’s a rainbow on a plate, making it perfect for social media sharing.
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Ease: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is easy enough for weeknights and quick meal prep. Most components come together in under 30–40 minutes.
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Versatility: Each component stands on its own but also complements the others. You can easily substitute ingredients based on what’s in season or your dietary needs.
Conclusion
Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice is a vibrant, nourishing, and satisfying dish that brings tropical flavors to your table with minimal fuss. It’s a balanced plate that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and indulge without guilt.
The harmony of zesty citrus-marinated salmon, sweet and tangy mango salsa, and creamy coconut rice makes this a dish worth repeating again and again. As you serve it, you’re not just offering a meal, you’re offering an experience full of warmth, sunshine, and good health.