Pin This Mango Avocado Salsa with Chicken Sausage brings together everything I crave when I want something fresh yet satisfying. The tang of lime and the juiciness of mango meet smoky chicken sausage for a dish that always makes the table feel a little more festive. It works for lunch on a hot day or as an appetizer at parties when you need to impress but do not want to spend hours at the stove.
I first threw this together for a last minute summer barbecue and every time I make it now my friends start hovering by the kitchen. This recipe is always a winner and it never lasts long.
Ingredients
- Ripe mango: Adds juicy sweetness and a tropical flair Choose one that gives slightly when pressed but is not mushy
- Ripe avocado: Provides creamy richness and balances acidity Opt for dark skinned Hass avocados that feel soft but not squishy
- Red onion: Brings color and a gentle bite Look for firm onions with shiny skin
- Red bell pepper: Contributes crunch and a subtle sweetness The freshest peppers feel heavy and have no wrinkles
- Jalapeño: Offers optional heat Use a firm vibrant pepper If you love spice leave in some seeds if not remove them
- Fresh cilantro: Gives herbal brightness only use leaves with no dark spots
- Lime juice: Adds tang and keeps avocado vibrant Juicy limes will feel heavy for their size
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for pulling all the flavors together Choose flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper for best taste
- Chicken sausages: Preferably grilled or smoked for maximum savoriness Go for high quality sausage with simple ingredients If dairy or gluten is a concern check the label
- Olive oil: For browning the sausage Use extra virgin if possible for richness
Instructions
- Prepare the Salsa:
- Gently mix diced mango avocado red onion red bell pepper jalapeño if using and cilantro in a medium bowl Use a soft spatula or wooden spoon so you do not mash the avocado You want every piece to keep its shape
- Dress the Salsa:
- Pour the lime juice over the salsa sprinkle with salt and black pepper Use gentle folds to combine so the avocado stays intact Let this sit for at least five minutes to help the flavors blend
- Brown the Sausage:
- Warm one tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat Add the chicken sausages turning them every few minutes Cook until they are deeply golden all over and heated through This usually takes eight to ten minutes Grilled sausage develops a wonderful char so go for grilling if you can
- Slice the Sausage:
- Transfer the sausage to a cutting board Slice each diagonally into pieces about half an inch thick Cutting on the diagonal gives more surface area and better presentation
- Plate It Up:
- Arrange sausage slices on a large platter or individual plates Spoon the mango avocado salsa generously over the top Make sure every serving gets both salsa and sausage
- Serve Immediately:
- Bring the platter to the table right away This dish shines when everything is fresh and vibrant
Pin The fresh mango is my favorite part I love how its syrupy sweetness plays off the lime and spice Growing up we would make fruit salsas for almost every summer meal Only now as an adult do I realize how brilliant that combo always was
Storage Tips
Leftover salsa keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day but avoid freezing since avocado does not thaw well Chicken sausage can be stored separately for two days To keep things fresh slice avocado just before serving if planning ahead
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap mango for ripe peaches or pineapple if mango is out of season For the avocado you can use diced cucumber for an extra crunch Vegetarian friends will love it with grilled halloumi or a good plant based sausage
Serving Suggestions
Pile the salsa high on small tostada shells or over greens for a salad Serve alongside rice and beans or scoop onto your favorite tortilla chips Guests love eating this family style straight off the platter
Fusion Roots
This dish takes inspiration from Caribbean and Latin American flavors where fruit and savory meats are often paired The smoky sausage is a modern twist and makes this fusion accessible for home cooks everywhere
Seasonal Adaptations
Add sweet corn in summer when it is fresh Use blood orange instead of lime in winter for a different acidity Try finely diced green apple for crunch during fall
Success Stories
One friend who swore off fruit in savory dishes ended up asking for seconds after she tried this salsa at my potluck A neighbor messaged me the next day for the recipe because even her picky eater child devoured it
Freezer Meal Conversion
The sausage can be grilled then frozen in portions and reheated later The salsa is best enjoyed fresh but the prep is quick enough to whip up anytime So grill extra sausage to have a meal base ready to go
Pin You will want to keep this recipe handy for summer parties or quick weeknight dinners. The vibrant flavors and easy prep make it a favorite every time.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep avocado from turning mushy?
Gently toss the salsa ingredients and add lime juice to help preserve the avocado's texture and freshness.
- → Can I grill the sausage instead of pan-cooking?
Yes, grilling produces a smoky char that pairs well with the vibrant salsa toppings.
- → What substitutions work for chicken sausage?
Plant-based sausage or grilled halloumi makes great alternatives, suitable for vegetarians.
- → Is this dish gluten- and dairy-free?
Yes, if you choose certified gluten- and dairy-free sausages. Always read packaging for allergens.
- → What drinks pair well with this meal?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or citrusy wheat beer complements the fresh and savory flavors beautifully.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the salsa?
Diced cucumber adds refreshing crunch, and you may experiment with other favorite veggies or herbs.