Name: Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 to 4 clementine oranges; 2 medium ripe avocados (about 1-1/3 cups diced); 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1-1/2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeño (ribs and seeds removed to control heat; include seeds for more heat); 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro (measured after chopping, about 1/2 large bunch); 3 tablespoons lime juice; 1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; Tortilla chips (for serving, optional)

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If you love vibrant, fresh flavors that dance on your tongue, then this Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Combining creamy avocado with juicy clementine oranges, a hint of spicy jalapeño, and zesty lime, this salsa bursts with a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. It’s bright, refreshing, and perfect whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to something special. Trust me, once you whip up this easy, colorful masterpiece, you’ll want to keep it on hand all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds five sections of chopped ingredients, each neatly placed next to each other. On the bottom left is bright orange pieces of mandarin, while the bottom center has small diced purple and white onion. To the bottom right and upper right are two shades of green; the first is light green avocado cubes, and the second is a darker green, also avocado cubes. The top center shows finely chopped dark green parsley, and to its left are finely chopped green herbs or peppers. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe shine. Each component brings something essential to the party—from the natural sweetness of clementines to the creamy richness of avocados, to the subtle heat from jalapeño. Together, they create a salsa that’s balanced, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Clementine Oranges (3 to 4): These sweet and juicy oranges provide a bright citrus pop that balances the creaminess of avocado.
Ripe Avocados (2 medium, about 1-1/3 cups): Creamy and buttery, avocados add silky texture and healthy fats to the salsa.
Red Onion (1/4 cup, diced): Adds a sharp, crunchy bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit.
Jalapeño (1-1/2 tablespoons, finely diced): Brings just the right amount of heat; remove the ribs and seeds for milder salsa or leave them in if you like it spicy.
Olive Oil (1-1/2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps meld all the flavors together for a smooth finish.
Cilantro (1/4 cup finely chopped): Offers fresh, herbal notes that brighten the whole salsa.
Lime Juice (3 tablespoons): Enhances tanginess and keeps the avocado from browning too quickly.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Pepper (1/8 teaspoon): A subtle hint of spice to balance the sweetness.
Tortilla Chips (optional): Perfect for scooping up the salsa if you’re serving it as a snack or appetizer.

How to Make Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe

Step 1: Dice All Ingredients

Begin by peeling and segmenting the clementine oranges, then dice them into bite-sized pieces. Next, peel, pit, and dice the avocados to match the size of the orange. Chop the red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro finely—aiming for similar-sized pieces so every spoonful delivers a bit of everything.

Step 2: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, gently toss together the diced clementines, avocado, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Drizzle in the olive oil and freshly squeezed lime juice, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Mix everything carefully to avoid mashing the avocado but ensure all the flavors come together evenly.

Step 3: Adjust to Taste

Give your salsa a taste test and adjust as you like. If you want it zestier, add a bit more lime juice; if it needs more savory depth, a pinch more salt will do the trick. This step lets you personalize the Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe perfectly to your liking.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Allow the salsa to sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This short rest period helps the flavors meld and develop, making each bite even more delicious.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give the salsa a gentle toss before serving to redistribute any juices. You can serve it on its own, with tortilla chips for dipping, or as a vibrant topping for grilled meats, tacos, or salads.

How to Serve Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe

A bowl filled with a colorful salad showing three main layers of bright orange mandarin slices, cubes of green avocado, and small pieces of purple onion mixed together with chopped green herbs, all sitting in a black bowl on a white marbled surface surrounded by lime halves, orange halves, cilantro leaves, and blue corn tortilla chips. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro or a few thin lime wedges on the side for added freshness and a pop of color. A light dusting of chili powder can also intensify the visual appeal and flavor kick.

Side Dishes

This salsa pairs wonderfully with simple grilled chicken or fish, complementing both with its citrusy brightness. It’s also a fantastic companion to tortilla chips during casual get-togethers or as an exciting topper for tacos or burrito bowls.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this salsa in hollowed-out bell peppers or small avocado shells for a unique and charming presentation. You can also spoon it over cream cheese on crackers for a quick, elegant appetizer that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days because the avocado will start to brown and the citrus flavors gradually fade.

Freezing

Freezing avocado-based salsa is not recommended as the texture and flavor can suffer greatly once thawed. For the freshest experience, prepare just enough for immediate enjoyment or short-term storage.

Reheating

This salsa is designed to be enjoyed fresh and chilled or at room temperature—reheating is unnecessary and not advised as it may alter the delicate balance of flavors and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of oranges instead of clementines?

Absolutely! Mandarins or navels work well too. Just be sure to peel and segment them carefully to avoid bitterness from the white pith.

How spicy is this salsa?

The heat level depends entirely on your jalapeño choice. Removing the seeds and ribs keeps it mild, but including them will give the salsa a noticeable kick.

Can I make this salsa vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs.

How long does this salsa last in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days, as the avocado starts to brown and the flavors mellow after that.

What can I substitute for cilantro if I don’t like the taste?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, try fresh parsley or basil for a different, but still fresh and herbal, twist.

Final Thoughts

This Avocado-Orange Salsa Recipe truly is a delightful celebration of fresh, balanced flavors that you’re going to want to make again and again. It’s quick to prepare yet bursting with complexity—perfect for jazzing up weeknight dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering. Give it a try and watch this vibrant salsa become one of your favorite kitchen creations.