Tangerine & Avocado Salsa
This vibrant Tangerine & Avocado Salsa combines the sweet, juicy burst of tangerines with the creamy richness of avocado, brightened by lime and a hint of spice for a perfectly balanced, refreshing condiment.
For 4 servings
**Prepare Tangerines:** Peel the tangerines, remove as much of the white pith as possible, and separate into segments. Dice the segments into small, bite-sized pieces, discarding any seeds. Place in a medium mixing bowl.
**Prepare Avocado:** Halve the ripe avocado, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Dice the avocado into similar-sized pieces as the tangerine and add to the bowl with the tangerines.
**Chop Aromatics:** Finely dice the red onion and chop the fresh cilantro. If using, deseed and mince the jalapeño for a mild heat, or leave some seeds for more spice. Add all chopped ingredients to the bowl.
**Dress and Season:** Squeeze the juice from the lime over the fruit and vegetable mixture. Add the salt and a pinch of black pepper, if desired.
**Gently Combine:** Using a rubber spatula or large spoon, gently fold all the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to mash the avocado.
**Taste and Adjust:** Taste the salsa and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice for tang, salt for flavor, or jalapeño for heat.
**Serve Immediately:** For best flavor and texture, serve the salsa immediately. If not serving right away, cover and refrigerate for up to an hour; the lime juice will help prevent the avocado from browning.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Choose Ripe Avocado:** Select an avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure but isn't mushy. This ensures a creamy texture without being overripe.
- 2**Prevent Browning:** The lime juice helps significantly, but for longer storage (though not recommended), press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa to minimize air exposure.
- 3**Uniform Dicing:** Aim for similarly sized pieces of tangerine and avocado for a balanced texture in every bite.
- 4**Adjust Spice Level:** For more heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeño or add a small pinch of red pepper flakes. For no heat, omit the jalapeño entirely.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Addition
Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for an even sweeter, more tropical flavor profile.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Substitute or add fresh mint, basil, or chives for a different aromatic complexity.
Spice EnhancementSpice Enhancement
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder for a smoky depth and a different kind of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Immune Support
Tangerines and lime are excellent sources of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
Heart Health
Avocado provides monounsaturated fatty acids, which are known to help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health.
Digestive Wellness
Both avocado and tangerines are good sources of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting satiety, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Frequently asked questions
This salsa is best enjoyed fresh, ideally within an hour or two of preparation. While the lime juice helps, avocado will eventually brown. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but the texture may soften.
