Tangerine & Avocado Salsa
Bright, juicy tangerine segments meet creamy avocado in this fresh, zesty salsa. A squeeze of lime, a hint of jalapeño, and fresh cilantro bring everything to life. Perfect spooned over grilled fish, chicken, or simply scooped with tortilla chips.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Segment the tangerines.
1.Slice the top and bottom off each tangerine to create a flat base.2.Stand the tangerine on one flat end and cut downward following the curve of the fruit to remove the peel and white pith.3.Hold the peeled tangerine over a small bowl and cut between the membranes to release clean segments.4.Gently break the segments into bite-sized pieces and place in a medium mixing bowl.TIPWork over a bowl to catch the juices — they'll add flavor to the salsa. - prep · ~2 min
Dice the avocado.
1.Cut each avocado in half, remove the pit, and score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern.2.Scoop the diced avocado out with a spoon and add to the bowl with the tangerines.TIPUse ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape when tossed. - mix · ~2 min
Add the aromatics and season.
1.Add the finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to the bowl.2.Squeeze the juice of the lime over everything.3.Add a pinch of salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. - mix · ~1 min
Toss gently until well combined.
Use a silicone spatula or a large spoon to fold everything together. Be gentle to keep the avocado pieces intact and the tangerine segments from breaking down too much.
TIPTaste and adjust salt or lime juice right before serving. - serve
Serve immediately or let flavors meld.
The salsa is best served fresh, but you can let it sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to come together. Spoon over grilled chicken, fish, or serve with tortilla chips.
TIPIf making ahead, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape when tossed.
- 2Work over a bowl when segmenting tangerines to catch the juice for extra flavor.
- 3Seed the jalapeño for milder heat; leave some seeds for more kick.
- 4Taste and adjust salt or lime juice right before serving for brightest flavor.
- 5Add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning if making ahead.
- 6Store leftover salsa in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface.
Adapt it for your goals.
Mango & Avocado Salsa
Swap tangerine for ripe mango for a sweeter, tropical twist that pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp or pork.
Extra HerbyExtra-Herby
Replace half the cilantro with fresh mint or basil for a bright, unexpected flavor layer.
Spicy SmokySpicy Smoky
Swap fresh jalapeño for 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle in adobo (minced) for smoky heat and deeper color.
Low OilLow-Oil
Omit the avocado and add diced cucumber and jicama for crunch with fewer calories and fat.
Vegan & Gluten FreeVegan & Gluten-Free
This salsa is already vegan and gluten-free; serve with corn tortilla chips or over black beans for a complete plant-based meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Tangerines provide a generous dose of immune-supporting vitamin C, and the lime juice adds even more.
Healthy Fats from Avocado
Avocado supplies heart-friendly monounsaturated fats and helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the other ingredients.
Good Source of Fiber
Both avocado and tangerine contribute dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and satiety.
Low in Added Sugar
This salsa is naturally sweetened only by fruit, with no added sugars, making it a wholesome choice.
Hydrating and Electrolyte-Rich
Tangerines and avocado have high water content and provide potassium, which helps maintain fluid balance.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Prep the tangerines, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro up to a day ahead and refrigerate.
