A Mango Salad is a refreshing delight that combines juicy mangoes with vibrant vegetables and herbs. This salad is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish any time of the year. Not only does it burst with flavor, but it also takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Mango Salad can be whipped up in no time, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Harmony: The combination of sweet mangoes, zesty lime juice, and aromatic herbs creates a taste explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: Serve this salad as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a topping for grilled meats. It suits various occasions and dietary preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a guilt-free choice.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Mango Salad effortlessly, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large serving platter or shallow bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large serving platter or shallow bowl: Essential for layering your salad beautifully and showcasing its vibrant colors.
- Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together your dressing ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Ensures the dressing ingredients are well combined for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
A juicy, flavourful, simply perfect Mango Salad that will fill your taste buds with joy. Best of all, it only takes 15 minutes to prepare.
Fresh Produce
- 3 ripe mangoes, (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper, (stemmed and thinly sliced)
- 1/4 medium red onion, (thinly sliced)
- 2-3 Tablespoons chopped fresh basil, (plus more for garnish)
- 2-3 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, (plus more for garnish)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice ((about 2 limes))
- 2 teaspoons agave or honey
- 1-2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper (or 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes)
- 1 tbsp neutral tasting oil, ((I use avocado oil))
- 1/4 tsp salt
How to Make Mango Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Layer the sliced mango, peppers, and onions on a large serving platter or shallow bowl. Sprinkle with chopped basil and cilantro.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, agave (or sweetener of choice), Aleppo pepper, oil, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the mango salad. Garnish with additional chopped herbs and sprinkle with a pinch more Aleppo pepper to taste if desired. Serve immediately.
With these simple steps and fresh ingredients, your Mango Salad will be ready to impress! Enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering or make it part of your weekly meal prep!
How to Serve Mango Salad
Mango Salad is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience. You can elevate this refreshing salad with various serving suggestions that cater to different occasions and tastes.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair it with grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrition.
At Barbecues
- Offer it as a colorful side dish alongside grilled meats.
- Add diced avocado for a creamy twist that complements the mango.
For Family Gatherings
- Present it in a large bowl as the centerpiece of your table.
- Garnish with extra herbs for an inviting look.
As a Snack
- Serve it in small cups for easy snacking during gatherings.
- Pair it with tortilla chips for a sweet and savory contrast.
With Fish Dishes
- Use it as a topping for grilled fish to enhance flavors.
- Combine with shrimp tacos for a tropical flair.
How to Perfect Mango Salad
To make your Mango Salad truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose ripe mangoes: The sweetness of ripe mangoes enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
- Slice ingredients thinly: This ensures that every bite has balanced flavors and textures.
- Mix herbs well: Combining basil and cilantro adds depth; don’t skimp on this step!
- Taste before serving: Adjust lime juice or seasoning based on your preference before serving.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes can deepen the flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Mango Salad
Mango Salad pairs beautifully with many side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Simple and quick, these add protein and complement the salad’s freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious option that brings heartiness to your meal without overshadowing the salad.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn offers a crunchy contrast to the soft mango pieces.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice brings out the tropical vibes of your meal perfectly.
- Black Bean Tacos: Flavorful and filling, these tacos can balance the lightness of mango salad well.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with the tartness of lime in the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Mango Salad can be quick and enjoyable, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.
- Using unripe mangoes – This will lead to a salad that lacks sweetness. Always choose ripe, fragrant mangoes for the best flavor.
- Overdressing the salad – Too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh ingredients. Drizzle sparingly and adjust according to taste.
- Skipping the herbs – Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro elevate the salad’s flavor. Don’t omit them for a more vibrant taste.
- Neglecting seasoning – A pinch of salt can enhance all the flavors. Always season your salad for a balanced profile.
- Preparing too far in advance – Mango Salad is best served fresh. Make it close to serving time to maintain its texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Mango Salad in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mango Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the mango once thawed.
- If you must freeze, do so without dressing, and consume within a month.
Reheating Mango Salad
- Oven – Not recommended as it may change the texture of the salad.
- Microwave – Use with caution; warm it briefly on low power if needed.
- Stovetop – Heat gently in a pan without adding any additional moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Mango Salad special?
This Mango Salad is refreshing, quick to prepare, and bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients and herbs.
Can I customize my Mango Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like avocado, nuts, or different types of peppers based on your preference.
How do I choose ripe mangoes for my salad?
Look for mangoes that yield slightly when pressed and have a sweet aroma at the stem end.
Is Mango Salad healthy?
Yes! This salad is packed with vitamins from fresh fruits and vegetables while being low in calories.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare all ingredients separately beforehand and combine them just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This delightful Mango Salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings according to your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its fresh flavors any time!
Mango Salad
Mango Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Bursting with juicy mangoes, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. With its quick 15-minute preparation time, it’s the perfect choice for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish any time of the year. The harmonious blend of sweet and zesty flavors makes it an ideal complement to grilled meats or as a standalone snack. Impress your guests with this visually appealing salad that’s both nutritious and delicious.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients
- 3 ripe mangoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, stemmed and thinly sliced
- 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 teaspoons agave or honey
- 1-2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Layer the sliced mango, red bell pepper, and onion on a large serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped basil and cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, agave (or chosen sweetener), Aleppo pepper, oil, and salt until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and garnish with extra herbs. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
