BBQ Salmon Bowls with Mango Avocado Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with omega-3-rich salmon, fresh veggies, and a zesty salsa that adds a burst of flavor.

• Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spiciness to suit your taste.

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of smoky BBQ salmon and sweet, tangy mango avocado salsa is truly irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon:

• 1–2 lbs. fresh salmon

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 2 teaspoons onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more for a larger filet)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

• 2 mangoes, diced

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1/4 cup minced cilantro

• 1/4 cup minced red onion

• 1/2 jalapeño, minced (optional, to taste)

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 2 tablespoons lime juice + 1 teaspoon lime zest

• Salt to taste

For Serving:

• 1 1/2 cups of rice

Directions

1. Make the Mango Salsa: In a bowl, toss all salsa ingredients together. Taste and adjust as necessary. Set aside.

2. Cook the Rice: Prepare your rice according to package directions while you work on the salmon.

3. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 475°F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Alternatively, you can broil the salmon at 500°F for a crispy top, but be sure to watch closely so the sugar doesn’t burn.

4. Prepare the Salmon: Mix the spices (brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt) with olive oil to make a paste. Rub the paste generously over the top of the salmon, skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake the Salmon: Bake for 6-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon and your desired level of doneness. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the salmon. It should flake easily with a slightly translucent center for medium-rare or fully opaque for well-done.

6. Assemble the Bowls: In a bowl, layer your cooked rice, flake off pieces of the BBQ salmon, and top with the mango avocado salsa. Squeeze some lime juice over the top for an extra zing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–4, depending on the amount of salmon used.

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can easily add your favorite veggies to the bowl. Roasted mushrooms, asparagus, or even leftover roasted cauliflower work wonderfully.

• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit more heat, add more jalapeño to the salsa or sprinkle some chili flakes on top.

• Quinoa or Couscous: Swap the rice for quinoa or couscous to give your bowl a different texture and flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the leftover salmon, mango avocado salsa, and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the salmon gently in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. How can I tell when the salmon is cooked properly?

Salmon changes from translucent to opaque as it cooks. After 6-8 minutes, check the thickest part of the salmon. If it flakes easily and still has a little translucency in the middle, it’s done.

2. Can I use frozen mangoes for the salsa?

Yes, frozen mangoes can work well. Just let them thaw at room temperature and chop them into smaller pieces before adding to the salsa.

3. Can I cook the salmon on the stove instead of baking it?

Yes, you can pan-sear the salmon over medium-high heat in a skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

4. Can I make this recipe without the rice?

Yes, you can skip the rice and enjoy the salmon and mango avocado salsa on its own, or serve it with a different grain like quinoa or couscous.

5. Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

While the smoky BBQ flavor pairs perfectly with salmon, you can substitute it with other fish like trout, tilapia, or cod. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fish.

6. How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

To keep the salmon moist, avoid overcooking it. The salmon should be slightly translucent in the center for a tender, juicy result.

7. Can I make the mango avocado salsa ahead of time?

You can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance, but it’s best served fresh. If you prepare it too far in advance, the avocado may turn brown.

8. Can I add more spices to the salmon?

Absolutely! If you like a more intense flavor, feel free to experiment with extra spices like cumin, cayenne pepper, or smoked salt.

9. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute regular paprika, though the smoky flavor will be less pronounced. A pinch of liquid smoke can also be used for a similar effect.

10. Can I use a grill instead of the oven to cook the salmon?

Yes, grilling the salmon is a great alternative! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the salmon skin-side down for about 6-10 minutes, depending on the thickness.

Conclusion

BBQ Salmon Bowls with Mango Avocado Salsa are a delicious, nutritious, and quick meal that combines smoky BBQ salmon with a tangy, refreshing salsa. Perfect for a busy weeknight or when you want to impress with minimal effort, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Customize the bowls with your favorite toppings and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as healthy as it is tasty!