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Blackened Tilapia Recipe with Easy Fresh Mango Salsa for Best Flavor

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A quick and flavorful blackened tilapia paired with a fresh, juicy mango salsa that balances smoky heat with sweet tanginess. Perfect for a summer dinner or casual get-together.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skinless and boneless
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for coating)
  • 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced (about 1 cup / 150 g)
  • ½ small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: ½ cup diced cucumber or red bell pepper for extra crunch

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
  3. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over both sides of each fillet. Press gently so the spices stick well.
  4. Heat a cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until hot.
  5. Place the fillets in the hot pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until edges are crisp and blackened and the inside is opaque and flaky. Avoid moving the fish too much.
  6. While the fish cooks, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir gently and adjust seasoning as needed. Optionally add diced cucumber or bell pepper.
  7. Transfer cooked fish to plates and spoon fresh mango salsa on top or alongside. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat fish dry before seasoning for best crust. Cook fish undisturbed to form a blackened crust. Adjust cayenne and jalapeño for desired heat level. Mango salsa can be made up to 2 hours ahead and chilled. For grilling, cook 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened tilapia, mango salsa, spicy fish, quick dinner, summer recipe, seafood, fresh salsa, healthy fish recipe

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