Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight

Name: Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight
Ingredients: 2 Large Ripe Mangoes: Mangoes are the star of this salsa, so choosing ripe, juicy ones is crucial. Look for mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a fragrant aroma. The variety of mango can influence the flavor profile too. For a classic sweet and slightly tangy taste, Tommy Atkins mangoes are a good choice. If you prefer a sweeter, almost honeyed flavor, consider using Ataulfo (honey) mangoes. Kent or Keitt mangoes offer a firmer texture and a slightly more fibrous flesh, which can hold up well in salsa and provide a pleasant chewiness. Avoid mangoes that are overly soft, bruised, or have a sour smell, as these may be overripe or spoiled. The ripeness of the mangoes will directly impact the sweetness and overall flavor balance of your salsa. Underripe mangoes will be too tart and firm, while overripe mangoes can become mushy and lose their vibrant flavor.; 1/2 Red Onion: Red onion adds a crucial sharpness and bite to the salsa, balancing the sweetness of the mango and other ingredients. Its slightly pungent flavor is essential for cutting through the richness and adding depth. Finely dicing the red onion is important to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the salsa and doesn’t overpower other flavors. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes and then drain it thoroughly. This helps to mellow out its sharpness while retaining its characteristic flavor. Alternatively, you could use shallots for a milder onion flavor, although red onion is traditionally preferred for its distinct taste and vibrant color contrast in the salsa.; 1-2 Jalapeños (or Serrano Peppers for extra heat): The spice element is what elevates this salsa from simply sweet to “sweet and spicy delight”. Jalapeños provide a moderate level of heat, while Serrano peppers offer a more intense kick for those who prefer a spicier salsa. The number of peppers you use will depend on your spice preference. Start with one jalapeño and taste as you go, adding more if desired. Remember that the heat level can vary between individual peppers, so it’s always best to taste a small piece before adding it to the salsa. For a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, as these are where most of the heat resides. If you love the heat, leave some or all of the seeds in. Handle jalapeños with care, as the oils can irritate your skin. It’s recommended to wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.; 1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro brings a bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy note to the salsa, adding freshness and a layer of complexity. Fresh cilantro is essential for the authentic flavor of mango salsa; dried cilantro is not a suitable substitute. Make sure to wash the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before chopping. Use both the leaves and tender stems for the most flavor. Chop the cilantro finely so it disperses evenly throughout the salsa. If you are not a fan of cilantro (some people have a genetic predisposition that makes it taste soapy), you could try using flat-leaf parsley as a very mild alternative, although it will alter the traditional flavor profile. However, for the true Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight, cilantro is highly recommended.; 2-3 Tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice: Lime juice is the crucial acidic element that brightens the salsa, balances the sweetness, and prevents the mango from oxidizing and browning. Freshly squeezed lime juice is always best for its vibrant flavor compared to bottled lime juice, which can sometimes taste slightly artificial. The amount of lime juice you use can be adjusted to your preference. Start with 2 tablespoons and taste, adding more if you like a tangier salsa. The acidity of the lime juice also helps to “cook” the raw onions and jalapeños slightly, mellowing their sharpness and heat while enhancing their flavors. Lime juice also acts as a natural preservative, helping to keep the salsa fresh for a longer period.; 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil (Optional): A touch of olive oil is optional but recommended for adding a subtle richness and smoothness to the salsa. It helps to bind the ingredients together slightly and enhances the overall texture. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you prefer a lighter salsa or are watching your fat intake, you can omit the olive oil without significantly impacting the flavor. The olive oil also contributes a subtle fruity note that complements the mango and other ingredients.; Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Salt is essential for bringing out all the flavors of the salsa and balancing the sweetness and spice. Start with a pinch of salt and taste, adding more gradually until the flavors are well-balanced and enhanced. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. Seasoning with salt and pepper is a crucial final step that should not be overlooked, as it can significantly impact the overall taste of the salsa. Taste and adjust the seasoning just before serving to ensure it’s perfectly balanced.

Alessia

🍽️✨ Carrying My father’s Culinary Torch

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My family and I are big fans of vibrant flavors, especially when it comes to appetizers and sides. We love experimenting with different cuisines and ingredients, always on the lookout for that perfect dish that’s both exciting and refreshing. Recently, while planning a summer barbecue, I stumbled upon a recipe for mango salsa. Intrigued by the promise of sweetness and spice, I decided to give it a try, and let me tell you, it was an absolute game-changer! From the first bite, we were hooked. The combination of juicy, ripe mango, the zing of red onion, the fiery kick of jalapeño, and the freshness of cilantro and lime juice was simply irresistible. It was so good, in fact, that it vanished within minutes, leaving everyone craving more. Since then, this Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight has become a staple in our home, perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. It’s incredibly versatile, incredibly easy to make, and most importantly, incredibly delicious. If you’re looking for a way to brighten up your meals and impress your guests, look no further – this mango salsa is your answer!

Ingredients for the Perfect Mango Salsa

The beauty of mango salsa lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the symphony of flavors that make this dish so delightful. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight:

2 Large Ripe Mangoes: Mangoes are the star of this salsa, so choosing ripe, juicy ones is crucial. Look for mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a fragrant aroma. The variety of mango can influence the flavor profile too. For a classic sweet and slightly tangy taste, Tommy Atkins mangoes are a good choice. If you prefer a sweeter, almost honeyed flavor, consider using Ataulfo (honey) mangoes. Kent or Keitt mangoes offer a firmer texture and a slightly more fibrous flesh, which can hold up well in salsa and provide a pleasant chewiness. Avoid mangoes that are overly soft, bruised, or have a sour smell, as these may be overripe or spoiled. The ripeness of the mangoes will directly impact the sweetness and overall flavor balance of your salsa. Underripe mangoes will be too tart and firm, while overripe mangoes can become mushy and lose their vibrant flavor.
1/2 Red Onion: Red onion adds a crucial sharpness and bite to the salsa, balancing the sweetness of the mango and other ingredients. Its slightly pungent flavor is essential for cutting through the richness and adding depth. Finely dicing the red onion is important to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the salsa and doesn’t overpower other flavors. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes and then drain it thoroughly. This helps to mellow out its sharpness while retaining its characteristic flavor. Alternatively, you could use shallots for a milder onion flavor, although red onion is traditionally preferred for its distinct taste and vibrant color contrast in the salsa.
1-2 Jalapeños (or Serrano Peppers for extra heat): The spice element is what elevates this salsa from simply sweet to “sweet and spicy delight”. Jalapeños provide a moderate level of heat, while Serrano peppers offer a more intense kick for those who prefer a spicier salsa. The number of peppers you use will depend on your spice preference. Start with one jalapeño and taste as you go, adding more if desired. Remember that the heat level can vary between individual peppers, so it’s always best to taste a small piece before adding it to the salsa. For a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, as these are where most of the heat resides. If you love the heat, leave some or all of the seeds in. Handle jalapeños with care, as the oils can irritate your skin. It’s recommended to wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro brings a bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy note to the salsa, adding freshness and a layer of complexity. Fresh cilantro is essential for the authentic flavor of mango salsa; dried cilantro is not a suitable substitute. Make sure to wash the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before chopping. Use both the leaves and tender stems for the most flavor. Chop the cilantro finely so it disperses evenly throughout the salsa. If you are not a fan of cilantro (some people have a genetic predisposition that makes it taste soapy), you could try using flat-leaf parsley as a very mild alternative, although it will alter the traditional flavor profile. However, for the true Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight, cilantro is highly recommended.
2-3 Tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice: Lime juice is the crucial acidic element that brightens the salsa, balances the sweetness, and prevents the mango from oxidizing and browning. Freshly squeezed lime juice is always best for its vibrant flavor compared to bottled lime juice, which can sometimes taste slightly artificial. The amount of lime juice you use can be adjusted to your preference. Start with 2 tablespoons and taste, adding more if you like a tangier salsa. The acidity of the lime juice also helps to “cook” the raw onions and jalapeños slightly, mellowing their sharpness and heat while enhancing their flavors. Lime juice also acts as a natural preservative, helping to keep the salsa fresh for a longer period.
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil (Optional): A touch of olive oil is optional but recommended for adding a subtle richness and smoothness to the salsa. It helps to bind the ingredients together slightly and enhances the overall texture. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you prefer a lighter salsa or are watching your fat intake, you can omit the olive oil without significantly impacting the flavor. The olive oil also contributes a subtle fruity note that complements the mango and other ingredients.
Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Salt is essential for bringing out all the flavors of the salsa and balancing the sweetness and spice. Start with a pinch of salt and taste, adding more gradually until the flavors are well-balanced and enhanced. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. Seasoning with salt and pepper is a crucial final step that should not be overlooked, as it can significantly impact the overall taste of the salsa. Taste and adjust the seasoning just before serving to ensure it’s perfectly balanced.

Instructions: Crafting Your Mango Salsa Masterpiece

Making Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is surprisingly easy and quick. It’s a recipe that anyone can master, even beginner cooks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this vibrant and flavorful salsa:

Prepare the Mangoes: The first step is to properly prepare your mangoes. Wash them thoroughly under cool running water and dry them with a clean kitchen towel. To cut a mango efficiently, locate the flat, oblong seed in the center. Stand the mango on its end and slice down one side of the seed, as close to the seed as possible. Repeat on the other side. You’ll now have two mango “cheeks” and the center seed portion. Score the flesh of each mango cheek in a grid pattern, being careful not to cut through the skin. Then, scoop out the diced mango flesh with a spoon. For the remaining mango flesh around the seed, you can peel it with a vegetable peeler and dice it as well. You should aim for small, even dice of about ¼ to ½ inch in size. Place the diced mango in a medium-sized mixing bowl. This careful dicing ensures that the mango pieces are easy to eat and distribute evenly in the salsa.
Dice the Red Onion and Jalapeño: Next, prepare the red onion and jalapeño. Peel the red onion and finely dice about ½ cup. Remember, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for 10 minutes if you prefer a milder onion flavor. For the jalapeño, carefully remove the stem. If you want a spicier salsa, leave the seeds and membranes intact. For a milder salsa, slice the jalapeño lengthwise, and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and white membranes. Finely dice the jalapeño (or Serrano pepper if using). Add the diced red onion and jalapeño to the bowl with the mango. Ensure that the onion and jalapeño are diced finely so they blend well with the mango and other ingredients and don’t overpower the salsa with large chunks.
Chop the Cilantro: Wash the fresh cilantro thoroughly under cool running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Gather the cilantro sprigs and roughly chop them, including both the leaves and tender stems. Finely chop the cilantro until you have about ¼ cup. Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl with the mango, red onion, and jalapeño. Freshly chopped cilantro adds a bright, aromatic element to the salsa, so make sure to use it generously.
Add Lime Juice and Olive Oil (Optional): Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ingredients in the bowl. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste if you prefer a tangier salsa. If using, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture. The lime juice and olive oil help to bring all the ingredients together and create a cohesive salsa. The acidity of the lime juice also helps to prevent the mango from browning and adds a refreshing zest to the salsa.
Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the salsa with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper, then taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients, so don’t be shy with it. Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth. Taste the salsa and make sure the flavors are balanced – you should taste the sweetness of the mango, the sharpness of the onion, the heat of the jalapeño, the freshness of the cilantro, and the tanginess of the lime juice, all harmonizing together.
Gently Mix and Chill: Gently toss all the ingredients together in the bowl until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the mango pieces intact and not mushy. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salsa to an airtight container. Refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and deepen, resulting in a more flavorful and refreshing salsa. While you can serve it immediately, chilling it enhances the taste significantly.
Taste and Adjust (Final Step): Just before serving, give the salsa another taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño to achieve your desired flavor profile. You might find that the flavors have intensified slightly after chilling, so a final taste and adjustment is always a good idea to ensure it’s perfect.

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy & Delicious Choice

Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is not only incredibly flavorful but also a relatively healthy addition to your meals. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fresh fruits and vegetables. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition facts:

Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 4-6 servings, depending on serving size. A serving size is generally considered to be about ½ cup.
Calories per Serving (estimated): An estimated serving of ½ cup of Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight contains approximately 80-120 calories. This is an estimate and can vary slightly based on the ripeness of the mangoes, the amount of olive oil used (if any), and the exact proportions of ingredients.

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving estimate):

Vitamins: Mangoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and supports the immune system, while Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The salsa also contains Vitamin K from cilantro and other trace vitamins.
Fiber: Mangoes and vegetables provide a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidants: Mangoes, cilantro, and jalapeños are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Low in Fat: If made without olive oil, this salsa is very low in fat. Even with olive oil, the fat content is still relatively low and comes from healthy monounsaturated fats.
Sodium: Naturally low in sodium, especially if you control the amount of added salt.

Important Note: These are estimated nutritional values. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe. However, in general, Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is a healthy and nutritious choice, especially when compared to processed dips and sauces. It’s a great way to add flavor and nutrients to your meals without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Salsa in Minutes

One of the best things about Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is how quickly and easily it comes together. It’s perfect for when you need a delicious appetizer or side dish in a hurry.

Active Preparation Time: The active time you’ll spend preparing this salsa is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes washing and dicing the mangoes, red onion, and jalapeño, chopping the cilantro, squeezing the lime juice, and mixing all the ingredients together. The majority of this time is spent on chopping and dicing the ingredients.
Chilling Time: While the active preparation is quick, it’s recommended to chill the salsa for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. This chilling time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. It also helps the salsa to become more refreshing and enjoyable, especially when served cold.
Total Time (Preparation + Chilling): Therefore, the total time from start to finish, including chilling, is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Even with the chilling time, the overall process is quite fast and straightforward. You can easily prepare this salsa ahead of time, even a few hours in advance, and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. This makes it an ideal choice for parties, potlucks, and busy weeknights. The minimal effort required for such a flavorful and impressive dish is truly remarkable.

How to Serve: Versatile Ways to Enjoy Mango Salsa

The versatility of Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is truly remarkable. It’s not just a dip; it’s a flavor enhancer that can elevate a wide variety of dishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve and enjoy this vibrant salsa:

As a Dip with Tortilla Chips: This is the most classic and popular way to serve mango salsa. The sweetness and spice of the salsa pair perfectly with the salty crunch of tortilla chips. Choose sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up well to the chunky salsa. For a healthier option, consider baked tortilla chips or even pita chips.
Topping for Grilled Fish or Chicken: Mango salsa is an excellent accompaniment to grilled proteins. Its bright and refreshing flavors cut through the richness of grilled fish like salmon, tuna, or mahi-mahi, and also complement grilled chicken breasts or thighs beautifully. Spoon a generous amount of salsa over the cooked protein just before serving to add a burst of flavor and moisture.
Spooned over Tacos and Fajitas: Elevate your tacos and fajitas with a scoop of mango salsa. It adds a tropical twist and vibrant freshness that pairs wonderfully with seasoned meats, beans, or grilled vegetables in tacos and fajitas. It works particularly well with fish tacos, shrimp tacos, or vegetarian tacos.
Alongside Quesadillas and Burritos: Mango salsa is a fantastic side for quesadillas and burritos. Its sweet and spicy notes balance the cheesy richness of quesadillas and the hearty fillings of burritos. Serve it alongside or inside your quesadillas and burritos for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Served with Plantain Chips or Sweet Potato Fries: For a unique and delicious snack or appetizer, serve mango salsa with plantain chips or sweet potato fries. The sweetness of plantain chips or sweet potato fries complements the sweet and spicy salsa in a delightful way.
As a Salad Topping: Add a spoonful of mango salsa to your green salads for a burst of flavor and texture. It works especially well with salads that include grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans. It can also act as a light and flavorful dressing for simple green salads.
Garnish for Black Bean Burgers or Veggie Burgers: Mango salsa adds a refreshing and zesty topping to black bean burgers or other veggie burgers. Its vibrant flavors enhance the savory and earthy notes of the burgers, creating a well-balanced and delicious meal.
Mixed into Grain Bowls: Incorporate mango salsa into grain bowls with quinoa, rice, or couscous. It adds moisture, flavor, and freshness to grain bowls, especially those with grilled chicken, black beans, or avocado.
Served with Scrambled Eggs or Omelets: For a surprising and flavorful breakfast or brunch, try serving mango salsa alongside scrambled eggs or omelets. The sweetness and spice of the salsa add an unexpected and delicious twist to classic egg dishes.
As a Side Dish for Roasted Pork or Pork Tenderloin: Mango salsa is a wonderful side dish for roasted pork or pork tenderloin. Its fruity and spicy flavors complement the richness of pork beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is sure to be a hit. Its versatility makes it a perfect addition to countless meals and snacks, adding a touch of tropical sunshine to your plate.

Additional Tips for Mango Salsa Perfection

While the basic recipe for Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight is already fantastic, here are five additional tips to take your salsa to the next level and make it truly exceptional:

Adjust the Spice Level to Your Preference: Spice tolerance varies greatly, so don’t be afraid to customize the heat level of your salsa. If you like it milder, use just one jalapeño and remove all the seeds and membranes. For medium heat, use one or two jalapeños with some seeds and membranes left in. For a fiery kick, use Serrano peppers instead of jalapeños, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. Always taste as you go and add spice gradually to avoid making it too hot. You can also serve a side of extra diced jalapeños or hot sauce for those who want to amp up the heat further.
Add Other Fruits and Vegetables for Variety: Mango salsa is delicious on its own, but you can easily customize it by adding other fruits and vegetables for different flavors and textures. Try adding diced pineapple, peaches, bell peppers (especially red or yellow for sweetness), cucumber, or even corn kernels. These additions can create exciting variations and complement different dishes. For instance, pineapple adds extra sweetness and tropical notes, while cucumber adds a refreshing coolness. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite variations.
Let the Salsa Rest for Optimal Flavor: While you can technically eat mango salsa immediately after making it, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, and preferably an hour or two, makes a significant difference in flavor. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful salsa. The lime juice also has time to slightly “cook” the raw onions and jalapeños, mellowing their sharpness and enhancing their flavors. If you have time, prepare the salsa a few hours ahead of serving and keep it chilled for the best taste.
Use High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your salsa. Use ripe, juicy mangoes, fresh cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, and good quality red onion and jalapeños. Avoid using canned or frozen mangoes, as they lack the fresh flavor and texture of ripe mangoes. Fresh herbs and spices are essential for vibrant flavor. Investing in high-quality ingredients will elevate your salsa from good to truly outstanding.
Don’t Overmix the Salsa: When mixing the ingredients together, be gentle and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can make the mango pieces mushy and the salsa less appealing in texture. Simply toss the ingredients together until they are just combined. You want to maintain the distinct textures of the mango, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Gentle mixing ensures that the salsa remains fresh and vibrant in both flavor and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Mango Salsa

Here are some common questions people have about making and serving mango salsa:

Q1: How long does mango salsa last in the refrigerator?

A: Mango salsa is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the texture of the mango may soften slightly over time, and the flavors may become more intense. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within the first day or two. The lime juice helps to preserve it to some extent, but fresh salsa is always at its peak when freshly made.

Q2: Can I make mango salsa ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely make mango salsa ahead of time. In fact, making it a few hours in advance is recommended to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Prepare the salsa as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just before serving, give it a gentle stir and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. Making it ahead is a great time-saver, especially when preparing for parties or gatherings.

Q3: Can I freeze mango salsa?

A: Freezing mango salsa is not recommended. Freezing can significantly alter the texture of the mango and other fresh ingredients, making them mushy and watery when thawed. The vibrant flavors and fresh crispness of the salsa are also best preserved when stored in the refrigerator, not the freezer. It’s best to enjoy mango salsa fresh or within a few days of making it.

Q4: How can I make mango salsa less spicy?

A: To make mango salsa less spicy, start by using only one jalapeño or even half a jalapeño. The seeds and membranes of jalapeños are where most of the heat resides, so remove all the seeds and white membranes before dicing the jalapeño. You can also soak the diced jalapeño in cold water for a few minutes to further reduce its heat. If you accidentally make it too spicy, adding a little more diced mango or a squeeze of lime juice can help to balance the heat. Serving it with cooling accompaniments like sour cream or avocado can also help to mitigate the spiciness.

Q5: What are some good substitutions for cilantro in mango salsa?

A: While cilantro is traditionally used in mango salsa and provides a distinct flavor, if you are not a fan, you can try some alternatives. Flat-leaf parsley is a milder herb that can be used as a very subtle substitute, although it will alter the flavor profile. Another option is mint, which can add a refreshing and slightly different herbaceous note. However, for the most authentic Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa Delight, cilantro is highly recommended. If you must substitute, parsley is the closest in texture and mildness, but be aware that it will change the overall taste of the salsa.