Seared Salmon with Mango Salsa and Rice Pilaf

A sweet, spicy, and wine-ready summer dinner

When we asked our Spicy Vines community for a delicious summer recipe to pair with our vibrant Vino de Loco, our friend Constance Lewis absolutely delivered. This pan-seared salmon with mango salsa and rice pilaf hits all the right notes—bright, bold, and beautifully balanced.

The sweet heat of the salsa, buttery lemon rice, and perfectly seared fish were practically made for our tropical white blend. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want on repeat for warm evenings, outdoor dinners, or any time you’re craving something fresh and flavorful.

Why It Pairs with Vino de Loco

– Tropical fruit notes in the wine mirror the mango and jalapeño in the salsa
– Crisp acidity balances the buttery richness of the salmon and rice
– Zesty lime + citrus in the dish play perfectly with the wine’s bright finish

Recipe: Seared Salmon with Mango Salsa & Rice Pilaf

Serves: 4
Total Time: 45 minutes
Paired Wine: Spicy Vines Vino de Loco

Instructions for Mango Salsa:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Cover and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Instructions for Rice Pilaf:

– In a large skillet, brown rice in butter for 3 minutes over medium heat.
– Add chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.
– Cook covered for ~20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
– Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Instructions for Salmon:

– Pat salmon dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
– Heat olive oil in a medium-large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Sear salmon fillets for 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and crisped at the edges.

Plate + Serve

– Spoon a generous scoop of mango salsa over each seared salmon fillet
– Serve alongside a bed of warm, lemony rice pilaf
– Pour a chilled glass of Vino de Loco, and enjoy the sweet + spicy magic

Perfect For…

Summer dinner parties or porch nights
Tropical-themed meals
Light but flavorful wine pairings
Quick weeknight dinners that impress

Let’s Get a Little Loco

If you haven’t tried Vino de Loco yet, this is your sign. With bright acidity and a subtle kiss of tropical fruit, it takes this sweet + savory salmon recipe to the next level. Cheers to our spicy fans for always coming through with flavor!