Island Salsa
Bright and tropical, Island Salsa combines sweet pineapple and mango with crunchy bell peppers and zesty lime, creating a vibrant flavor profile perfect for summer gatherings. Its fresh, fruity notes and mild heat make it ideal for pairing with grilled chicken or serving on crunchy crackers, appealing to both fruit lovers and spice enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 1 c. pineapple, peeled and chopped
- 1 c. mango, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1 c. yellow or red bell pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 2/3 c. kiwi fruit, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 c. red onion, finely chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 c. fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tsp. fresh lime juice ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. minced serrano chili with seeds ⓘ
- ground white pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Serve on Hawaiian Lavash crackers or over grilled chicken.
- Can be made 3 hours ahead and chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter salsa, adjust the pineapple and mango quantities to your taste. If you prefer a milder salsa, reduce the serrano chili or substitute with jalapeño. Fresh lime juice is key for brightness, but lemon juice can be used as a substitute. This Island Salsa is versatile and can complement various dishes, so feel free to experiment with different fruits.
Serving Suggestions
This Island Salsa is perfect for topping grilled chicken or fish, and it pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Lavash crackers. It can also be served alongside quesadillas for a delightful contrast. For a light meal, try it over a bed of greens or as a vibrant addition to vegetarian tortilla soup. The fresh ingredients make it a refreshing side for any summer barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld and deepen, making it even more delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits will change once thawed. When ready to serve again, give it a gentle stir before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Island Salsa contains roughly 302 calories, with 8g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned fruit instead of fresh?
While fresh fruit is recommended for the best flavor and texture, if you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple and mango can work. Just ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salsa.
How spicy is this salsa?
The spice level will depend on the amount of serrano chili used. For a milder version, you can leave out the seeds or use a smaller amount. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicier chili.
Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Island Salsa up to 3 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but for the freshest taste, serve it on the same day if possible.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).