Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa is an exciting and delicious combination of juicy, perfectly grilled fish paired with a vibrant, fresh fruit salsa. This dish is a true celebration of flavors, balancing the savory and slightly smoky grilled swordfish with the sweet, tangy notes of ripe mango, complemented by the crunch of red onions, cilantro, and a hint of lime. It’s a dish that brings together the best of land and sea, making it a perfect choice for a summer dinner, a special occasion, or a light and healthy weeknight meal.

This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, offering a tropical twist on traditional grilled fish. The swordfish steaks are thick and meaty, ideal for grilling, and the mango salsa provides a refreshing contrast with its natural sweetness and acidity. With its bright and colorful presentation, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it an ideal option for entertaining guests or impressing family and friends. In this guide, you will find everything you need to make this fantastic dish—from a list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The bold, smoky flavor of grilled swordfish complements the sweet, tart, and spicy mango salsa, creating a delicious harmony of flavors. The salsa brings a freshness that brightens up the richness of the fish, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Healthy and Light: Swordfish is a lean, protein-packed fish, and mango salsa is loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. This makes Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa a healthy choice for those looking for a satisfying yet light meal that’s full of nutrients.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: While the dish may sound gourmet, it requires only a few fresh ingredients, most of which are easy to find in your local grocery store. The combination of fresh mango, cilantro, and lime adds a burst of flavor without any complicated techniques.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe is quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. Grilling the swordfish only takes a few minutes per side, and making the mango salsa is straightforward. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or weekend dinners when you want something light yet satisfying.
• Visually Stunning: The combination of the golden grilled swordfish and the vibrant colors of the mango salsa creates an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes. It’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to, making it ideal for dinner parties or special occasions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving (depending on the portion size and ingredients used)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 28-30g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 15g

Ingredients

For the Grilled Swordfish:

• 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

For the Mango Salsa:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Swordfish Steaks

Start by prepping the swordfish steaks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure a good sear on the fish when grilling. Drizzle the steaks with olive oil on both sides and rub them in gently to coat evenly.

Next, season the steaks with garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, but the smoked paprika and garlic powder will give the fish a nice smoky depth of flavor. For an extra citrusy kick, drizzle a little fresh lemon juice over the steaks as well.

2. Make the Mango Salsa

While the swordfish steaks are marinating, it’s time to prepare the mango salsa. Start by peeling and pitting the mangoes. To do this, slice the mango cheeks off the pit, then cut the flesh into small cubes. Place the diced mango in a mixing bowl.

Next, finely chop the red onion, red bell pepper, and cucumber. Add these to the bowl with the mango. Chop the cilantro and add it to the mix for a burst of freshness. If you enjoy some heat, finely chop the jalapeño (remember to remove the seeds if you prefer less spice) and add it to the salsa as well.

Drizzle the salsa with fresh lime juice and add a little honey to balance the acidity of the lime and bring out the natural sweetness of the mango. Stir everything together and taste for seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed, then set the salsa aside to allow the flavors to meld together while you grill the swordfish.

3. Grill the Swordfish

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the fish from sticking. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, you can lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil.

Place the swordfish steaks on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. Swordfish is a firm, meaty fish that holds up well to grilling, but it can overcook quickly, so be mindful not to leave it on the heat for too long. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.

As the swordfish cooks, you can brush it with any remaining olive oil or lemon juice for added moisture and flavor.

4. Assemble the Dish

Once the swordfish steaks are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the fish moist.

Spoon a generous portion of the mango salsa on top of each swordfish steak or serve it on the side as a refreshing accompaniment. The salsa should be vibrant and chunky, providing a fresh contrast to the rich, savory flavor of the grilled fish.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa immediately, garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired. Pair it with a side of rice, a light salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a summer dinner party, a beachside barbecue, or a healthy weekday meal.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa

• Choose Fresh Swordfish: When selecting swordfish, look for fresh, firm steaks with a moist appearance and a mild, ocean-fresh smell. Avoid fish that appears discolored or has a strong, fishy odor.
• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Swordfish is a firm fish that can easily become dry if overcooked. Aim for a medium-rare to medium cook, where the center is slightly pink and the fish flakes easily. Swordfish steaks should be cooked just until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
• Grill at the Right Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the swordfish. This helps achieve a nice sear on the fish while keeping the inside tender.
• Prepare the Mango Salsa in Advance: For the best flavor, prepare the mango salsa ahead of time and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also make it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
• Customize the Salsa: While mango is the star of the salsa, feel free to customize it with other fruits like pineapple or peaches. You can also add a splash of orange juice for extra sweetness or a pinch of chili powder for a smoky kick.
• Serve with a Side: While the mango salsa is a great accompaniment, consider serving the swordfish with a side of coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a light quinoa salad for a more filling meal.

Variations of Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa

• Tropical Swordfish: Add pineapple chunks to the mango salsa for a more tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple will complement the fish and make the salsa even more vibrant.
• Spicy Mango Salsa: If you like heat, increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or add a finely chopped serrano pepper. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salsa for an extra kick.
• Citrus Infusion: To enhance the citrusy flavor, add the zest of the lime or orange to the mango salsa. This will bring out the fruitiness and add a fragrant layer of complexity.
• Herb Variations: While cilantro works beautifully with mango salsa, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or basil to give the salsa a different flavor profile.
• Grilled Swordfish Tacos: For a fun twist, serve the grilled swordfish in soft tortillas with the mango salsa and a drizzle of sour cream or avocado for a taco-inspired meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

Grilled swordfish is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating it can cause the fish to dry out. However, if you have leftovers, store the grilled swordfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best taste, consume the swordfish as soon as possible.

The mango salsa can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it in a sealed container to preserve its freshness, but note that the salsa may release some liquid as it sits, so you may want to drain it before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa

• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs perfectly with the fresh, tropical flavors of the mango salsa.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the swordfish with grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers to add a smoky and savory element that complements the fresh salsa.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the swordfish and balances out the heat of the salsa.
• White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the fresh, tropical flavors of this dish. The acidity of the wine complements the sweetness of the mango salsa.

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Conclusion

Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the rich, savory taste of grilled fish with the fresh, tangy sweetness of mango salsa. It’s a meal that’s light, healthy, and full of tropical flavors—perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe brings a taste of the tropics right to your table. The combination of perfectly grilled swordfish and zesty, refreshing salsa will have your taste buds dancing and leave everyone asking for seconds. So fire up the grill, prepare the salsa, and enjoy this delightful dish!