Name: Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 large ripe mango, diced; ½ red bell pepper, diced; ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced; Juice of 1 lime

Hey y'all! If you're craving a meal that’s both light and bursting with flavor, this Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa is about to become your new weeknight favorite. The smoky, spicy tilapia perfectly complements the cool, juicy mango salsa, making this dish a vibrant showstopper for family dinners, summer cookouts, or even a healthy meal prep option. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh, bold flavors: The sweet mango salsa balances the spicy blackened fish for a mouthwatering combo.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with lean protein and vitamin-rich fruits and veggies.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite salsa mix-ins.
Beautiful presentation: Colorful and appetizing, guaranteed to impress your guests!

Ingredients for Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 large ripe mango, diced
½ cup diced red bell pepper
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste (for salsa)

Directions: How to Make Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Gently toss to combine, cover, and refrigerate while you cook the tilapia so the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Season the Tilapia

In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and kosher salt.
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Sprinkle the blackening spice mix generously over both sides of each fillet, pressing gently so the spices adhere.

Step 3: Cook the Blackened Tilapia

Heat a large nonstick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining olive oil.
Once hot and shimmering, add the tilapia fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the outside is charred and the fish flakes easily with a fork. (Tilapia is done when it reaches 145°F/63°C internal temperature. See FDA guidelines.)
Remove from skillet and let rest for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Top each tilapia fillet generously with chilled mango salsa.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

Notes & Tips for Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

For extra smoky flavor, use a cast iron skillet. Learn more about cast iron vs. nonstick pans.
If you can't find fresh mango, frozen diced mango (thawed) works in a pinch.
Double the mango salsa and save extra for topping tacos or salads the next day!

Variations on Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Grilled Tilapia: Grill the fillets over medium-high heat for a smoky outdoor flavor.
Pineapple Salsa: Swap mango for pineapple for a tangy twist.
Fish Tacos: Flake the cooked tilapia and serve in warm tortillas with the salsa.

Required Equipment

Large nonstick or cast iron skillet
Mixing bowls
Fish spatula or regular spatula
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons

Storage Instructions for Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Store leftover tilapia and salsa separately in airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to 2 days for best freshness.
Reheat tilapia gently in a skillet over low heat; enjoy salsa cold.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve over steamed rice or coconut rice for a heartier meal.
Pair with a fresh green salad and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Great as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Pro Tips for Perfect Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Pat fish completely dry before seasoning to get a nice crust. Find out why in this fish-cooking guide.
Let the salsa rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to develop the flavors.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed for an even sear.

FAQ: Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Can I use another type of fish?: Absolutely! Catfish, cod, or snapper work well with this blackening spice and salsa.
Is this recipe spicy?: The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust the cayenne and jalapeño to suit your taste.
Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?: Yes, you can prep the salsa up to a day in advance—just store it covered in the refrigerator.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Blackened Tilapia with Mango Salsa