Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Chili Lime Tilapia with Mango Salsa Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

Chili Lime Tilapia with Mango Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that pairs the mild, flaky texture of tilapia with a zesty chili-lime seasoning and a fresh, sweet-tart mango salsa. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light, healthy meal and combines spicy, citrus, and sweet flavors to delight your palate.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes (including 2 hours marinating time for salsa)
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Mango Salsa

  • 1 small mango (peeled, seeded and finely diced)
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red bell pepper
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
  • 2 teaspoons finely chopped jalapenos (seeded and membrane removed)
  • 2 tablespoons finely minced cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon finely minced mint
  • Juice of half a lime (reserve the other half for the fish)
  • Salt to taste

Chili Lime Tilapia

  • 2 tilapia fillets, fresh or frozen (thawed if frozen) (5-6 ounces each)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Zest and juice of half a lime

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mango Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeños. Add the minced cilantro and mint. Mix well, then stir in the lime juice and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Season the Tilapia: In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, garlic powder, salt, brown sugar, and lime zest. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with a paper towel and sprinkle the seasoning evenly on both sides.
  3. Cook the Tilapia: Heat olive oil in a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the fillets in the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, depending on thickness.
  4. Flip and Finish Cooking: Turn the fillets gently and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and squeeze lime juice over both fillets.
  5. Serve: Place the cooked tilapia fillets on plates and spoon the chilled mango salsa generously over the top. Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness.

Notes

  • Make the mango salsa a few hours ahead to deepen the flavors.
  • If fresh jalapeños are not available, use less spicy chili flakes as a substitute but adjust to taste.
  • For best results, use fresh tilapia fillets; if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a green salad for a complete meal.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free