If you are looking to brighten up your meal with a dish that is as vibrant in taste as it is in color, this Mango Avocado Salad Recipe is an absolute gem to try. It effortlessly combines the creamy richness of avocado with the juicy sweetness of ripe mangoes, all brought together by a zesty lime dressing that sings with just the right hint of spice from Fresno chili. This salad is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and refreshing option perfect for warm days or anytime you crave something fresh and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mango Avocado Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity — just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role. From the bright citrus notes of lime juice to the crunchy pop of red pepper, every ingredient adds a unique layer of flavor and texture that makes this salad so special.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds tangy brightness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup: Provides a subtle sweetness that rounds out the tart lime juice.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Brings a savory depth to the dressing without overpowering it.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Gives a smooth richness that helps meld all the flavors together.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the fruits and vegetables.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and spice.
- 3 mangoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes: The star of the salad with juicy, tropical sweetness and bright color.
- 2 avocados, diced: Creamy texture that complements the crisp elements perfectly.
- 1 red pepper, diced: Adds crunch and a mild peppery flavor along with vivid red hues.
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped red onions: Provides a sharp bite and a dash of color contrast.
- 1 Fresno chili, minced: Offers a fresh spicy kick without overwhelming heat.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Lends herbaceous notes and an aromatic freshness.
How to Make Mango Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the lime juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This creates the flavorful base that will coat the salad with a tangy, sweet, and slightly savory dressing, bringing all the ingredients to life.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Gently add the diced mangoes, diced avocados, diced red pepper, chopped red onions, minced Fresno chili, and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Each ingredient adds its own delightful texture and flavor, making the salad exciting and vibrant.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Carefully toss the ingredients together until everything is thoroughly coated with the dressing. This ensures every bite delivers that perfect balance of sweet, creamy, tangy, and spicy. It’s best enjoyed right away so the avocados stay fresh and the flavors are at their peak.
How to Serve Mango Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado and juicy mango. Fresh lime zest or an extra drizzle of olive oil can also brighten up the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken, turning a simple meal into something special. It’s also fantastic alongside some warm, crusty bread or crispy tortilla chips when you want a light but flavorful accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Mango Avocado Salad Recipe in individual avocado halves, spooning the mixture right into the green bowls. You can also layer it in clear jars for a portable, colorful lunch or arrange it over a bed of mixed greens for a heartier salad option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer the Mango Avocado Salad Recipe to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that avocado tends to brown quickly, so try to enjoy leftovers within a day for the best freshness.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well because the avocados and mangoes will become mushy and lose their texture. For freezing, it’s better to prepare components like the dressing separately.
Reheating
Since this dish is a fresh salad, it’s meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it would alter the texture and flavor balance that makes it so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chili if I don’t have Fresno chili?
Absolutely! You can substitute Fresno chili with jalapeño or serrano peppers depending on your heat preference. Just remember to adjust the amount so it doesn’t overpower the salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes! The Mango Avocado Salad Recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly when you use maple syrup instead of honey, making it perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle.
How ripe should the mangoes and avocados be?
Look for ripe mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy, and avocados that yield gently when pressed. This ripeness ensures optimal sweetness and creamy texture in the salad.
Can I prepare the salad dressing in advance?
Definitely! The dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just whisk it again before using to recombine the ingredients, then toss with fresh salad ingredients before serving.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
Consider adding cooked quinoa, black beans, or grilled chicken to transform this Mango Avocado Salad Recipe into a more substantial meal while keeping the fresh flavors you love.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly wonderful about the way the fresh, vibrant ingredients of the Mango Avocado Salad Recipe come together to create a dish that is both nourishing and exciting. It’s a fantastic recipe to keep in your culinary arsenal when you want something quick, tasty, and a little bit extraordinary. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this salad as much as I do!
Print
Mango Avocado Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Mango Avocado Salad combines sweet, creamy, and spicy elements for a refreshing and healthy dish perfect as a light lunch or side. Featuring juicy mangoes, ripe avocados, and a zesty lime-honey dressing, it’s quick to make and packed with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Dressing
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Salad
- 3 mangoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped red onions
- 1 Fresno chili, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined, forming a tangy and slightly sweet dressing base.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the diced mangoes, diced avocados, diced red pepper, roughly chopped red onions, minced Fresno chili, and chopped cilantro to the bowl containing the dressing.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss all the ingredients together to evenly coat everything in the dressing. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshest flavor and best texture.
Notes
- For a milder salad, reduce or omit the Fresno chili.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep the salad vegan.
- Best served fresh as avocado may brown upon standing.
- You can add toasted nuts like cashews or almonds for extra crunch.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice to taste before serving.
