As summer heats up, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing tang of a well-made salsa verde to complement grilled meats, tacos, or simply to enjoy with tortilla chips. And when you add the tropical sweetness of mango and the fiery kick of habanero peppers into the mix, you get a salsa that’s not just delicious but truly unforgettable. Here’s how you can create your own mango habanero salsa verde to impress your friends and family at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

Tomatillos: 1 pound, husked and rinsed
Mango: 1 large or 2 small, peeled and diced
Habanero peppers: 6-8, stemmed (adjust according to your spice preference)
Red onion: 2 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Cilantro: 1 cup, chopped
Lime: Juice of 2 limes and 6 key limes
Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, depending on sweetness of mango)

Instructions:

Roast the Tomatillos and Peppers: Preheat your broiler. Place the tomatillos and habanero peppers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for about 5-7 minutes, turning once, until they are charred and softened. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Mango and Other Ingredients: While the tomatillos and peppers are cooling, prepare the mango, red onion, garlic, and cilantro. Dice the mango into small pieces and finely chop the red onion and cilantro. Mince the garlic cloves.
Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted tomatillos, habanero peppers (start with 2 and add more for extra heat if desired), diced mango, minced garlic, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and optional sugar. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Finish and Serve: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Carefully pour the blended salsa verde into the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Cool and Store: Let the salsa cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar or serving bowl. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Serving Suggestions:

With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork, or fish for a tropical twist.
On Tacos: Use as a flavorful topping for tacos, adding a sweet-spicy contrast.
With Chips: Enjoy with tortilla chips as a vibrant dip.

Why Mango Habanero Salsa Verde?

This salsa verde recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors. The tomatillos provide a tangy base, balanced by the sweetness of mango and the distinctive heat of habanero peppers. The addition of lime juice and cilantro adds freshness and brightness, making it perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to elevate your dishes with a burst of tropical zest.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of summer, this mango habanero salsa verde is sure to impress with its bold flavors and versatility. Try it out and let your taste buds savor the spicy-sweet symphony of this delightful homemade salsa!