Mango Salad Recipe

Name: Mango Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486314H39M52S
Total time: 54 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large ripe mangoes (peeled and diced); 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped); ½ English cucumber (diced); ½ cup red onion (thinly sliced); 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced); ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 4 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon red grape vinegar; ½ tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon lime zest; Fresh dill, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper

Recipe By:

Alexandra

Posted:

May 24, 2025

Updated:

May 24, 2025

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Fresh mango and refreshing cucumber combine forces with a spicy-sweet and tangy dressing for a taste you won’t soon forget. This Mango Salad Recipe is not only a delightful combination of flavors but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish at family gatherings. With its vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients, this salad will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the mangoes and vegetables, this salad is good for you!
Versatile Pairing: Serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a topping for grilled meats.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant hues of mangoes, cucumbers, and peppers make this salad visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Mango Salad Recipe requires just a few essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl for dressing
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing all the salad ingredients together without spilling.
Small bowl for dressing: Keeps your dressing separate until you’re ready to combine flavors, ensuring freshness.
Whisk: Allows you to blend the dressing ingredients quickly and thoroughly.
Knife & cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables and fruits safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

Fresh mango and refreshing cucumber combine forces with a spicy-sweet and tangy dressing for a taste you won’t soon forget. Crunchy, cool, hydrating, and packed with nutrients, it’s the summer salad that – until now – I’ve only dreamed of.

For the Dressing

4 tablespoons Olive Oil
3 tablespoons Lime Juice
1 tablespoon Red Grape Vinegar (or Red Vine Vinegar)
½ tablespoon Maple Syrup
1 teaspoon Lime Zest
2 teaspoons Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
¾ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (increase or decrease as per your liking)
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper

For the Salad

4 cups Romaine Lettuce (chopped into bite-size)
2 large Mangoes (peeled and diced)
½ cup Red Onion (thinly sliced)
½ English Cucumber (diced)
1 Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced)
¼ cup Cilantro (chopped)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mango Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by making the lime dill vinaigrette dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients well. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Cover and refrigerate until you are ready to serve the salad.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce, diced mangoes, sliced onions, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and cilantro. At this point, you can cover it and refrigerate if you wish to serve later.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently to combine well. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their peak!

How to Serve Mango Salad Recipe

Serving a Mango Salad is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This salad not only looks stunning but also pairs beautifully with various dishes, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

As a Refreshing Side Dish

Pair it with grilled chicken or fish to balance the flavors and add protein to your meal.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Use the Mango Salad as a filling in a wrap or sandwich, adding an exciting crunch and sweetness.

Topped on Tacos

Spoon the salad onto tacos for added freshness and a burst of flavor that complements savory fillings.

Accompanied by Rice Dishes

Serve alongside coconut rice or quinoa to create a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.

How to Perfect Mango Salad Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Mango Salad Recipe, consider these helpful tips.

Choose ripe mangoes: Select mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Adjust spice level: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro and dill elevate the taste, so opt for fresh over dried herbs whenever possible.
Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge after tossing it with dressing for at least 10 minutes; this enhances the flavors.
Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts, seeds, or other vegetables like bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
Balance acidity: Taste the dressing before serving; adjust lime juice or maple syrup if you want more tang or sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Mango Salad Recipe

Mango Salad pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options you can serve alongside:

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These add a smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the salad perfectly.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light and healthy grain dish that brings additional texture without overpowering the salad.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the tangy mango dressing.
Avocado Toast: A creamy toast option that balances well with the crunchy salad for a satisfying bite.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn offers a sweet crunch that enhances your eating experience.
Pita Chips and Hummus: A crunchy side that makes for great snacking alongside your refreshing salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Mango Salad Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the overall experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Dressing Rest Time: Not letting the dressing sit can lead to a less flavorful salad. Allowing it to rest helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Using Unripe Mangoes: Choosing mangoes that are not ripe can result in a bland salad. Always pick ripe, sweet mangoes for the best taste and texture.
Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with half the amount and add more as needed to achieve your desired flavor.
Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Leaving out fresh herbs like cilantro or dill diminishes flavor. These ingredients add freshness and complexity; don’t skip them!
Chopping Vegetables Too Small: Cutting vegetables into tiny pieces can make them mushy. Aim for bite-sized chunks to maintain crunchiness in your salad.

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Mango Salad Recipe in an airtight container.
It can last in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mango Salad Recipe

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh ingredients like lettuce and cucumber.
If you must freeze, consider only freezing diced mango and bell pepper.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Mango Salad Recipe

Oven: This method is not ideal for salads but if you want to warm specific ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: For a quick option, place individual servings in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 20-30 seconds, being cautious not to overheat.
Stovetop: You can lightly sauté leftover ingredients in a pan over low heat, but avoid cooking greens like lettuce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Mango Salad Recipe?

Yes! You can add nuts, seeds, or even proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for added nutrition.

How do I choose ripe mangoes for my salad?

Look for mangoes that yield slightly when pressed and have a sweet aroma near the stem end.

What other dressings work well with Mango Salad?

You might try a sesame ginger dressing or even a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and vinegar.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The prep time for this Mango Salad Recipe is just 15 minutes!

Can I use different fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Pineapple, papaya, or kiwi would also complement this salad beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Mango Salad Recipe is not only refreshingly delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as a side dish or light meal, its bright flavors will impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits and proteins for a unique twist. Try making it today—you won’t regret it!