Introduction
The Avocado Mango Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm weather or as a delightful side to any meal. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy mango, creating a delicious contrast in textures. Topped with a zesty citrus dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors—fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Packed with healthy fats from the avocado, along with vitamins and antioxidants from the mango, this salad is as nutritious as it is flavorful. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to add a light yet satisfying dish to their meal rotation, or to enjoy as a standalone snack. The bright colors and tropical flavors make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at barbecues, picnics, or even as a quick lunch.
Whether served as a side to grilled chicken or enjoyed on its own, the Avocado Mango Salad is versatile, easy to prepare, and bursting with nutrients. It’s a delightful option that brings the best of both flavor and health to the table.
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Perfect for:
- Summer gatherings
- Light and healthy lunches
- Quick, refreshing side dish
- Vegan, gluten-free diets
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why the Avocado Mango Salad is so adored:
- Refreshing & Light: This salad combines fresh, juicy mango and creamy avocado, making it the perfect refreshing dish for warm weather or light meals.
- Packed with Nutrients: Full of healthy fats from avocados and vitamin-rich mangoes, this salad supports your overall well-being and energy levels.
- Vibrant Colors: The bright green of the avocado and the sunny yellow of the mango make this salad visually appealing and mouthwatering.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in minutes, this salad is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something nutritious and delicious.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch, a BBQ, or a dinner party, this salad works as a side or a main dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, lime, red onion, or even a bit of chili for a zesty kick.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan: Ideal for people with dietary restrictions, this salad is naturally gluten-free and plant-based.
- Boosts Immunity: With vitamin C-rich mango and antioxidants from avocado, it’s a great immune-boosting meal.
- Low-Calorie: Light yet filling, this salad is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, low-calorie option without sacrificing taste.
- Satisfying & Delicious: The combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors makes this salad both satisfying and indulgent without being heavy.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Healthy fats, fiber, vitamin C, potassium
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 large mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Highlights
- Avocado: Packed with healthy fats and provides a creamy texture to the salad.
- Mango: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Red Onion & Bell Pepper: These vegetables add crunch and a mild sharpness that complements the sweetness of the mango.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Salad:
- Dice the Ingredients:
- Cut the avocados and mango into cubes, slice the red onion, dice the cucumber, and chop the cilantro.
- Add all of these ingredients to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the Bell Pepper:
- Dice the red bell pepper and add it to the salad.
- Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Make the Dressing:
- Whisk the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey (or agave), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to mash the avocado.
Serve:
- Enjoy Immediately:
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes if you prefer it colder.
How to Serve
The Avocado Mango Salad pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish
- As a topping for tacos or bowls
- Served as a refreshing side for any BBQ or picnic
- Enjoy it on its own for a light meal
Additional Tips
- Use Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe. They should yield to gentle pressure but not feel mushy. This will add creaminess and flavor to the salad.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro or mint can enhance the salad’s flavor profile with a fresh, aromatic note.
- Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the salad.
- Citrus Zest: Add some lime or orange zest for an extra layer of citrus flavor that complements the avocado and mango.
- Dress It Right: A simple dressing of lime juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey or agave will brighten up the salad. For more tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Toast the Nuts or Seeds: Toasting almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds will add a delightful crunch and deeper flavor.
- Add Protein: For a more filling salad, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Use Mixed Greens: While the avocado and mango are the stars, adding a mix of greens such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale will provide a nice contrast in texture.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad for about 30 minutes before serving can enhance the flavors, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
- Balance Sweetness: If your mango is extra sweet, balance it with a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime to bring all the flavors into harmony.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Avocado Mango Salad: Add finely chopped jalapeño or red chili flakes for a spicy kick. Toss in some fresh cilantro and lime juice to balance the heat.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Quinoa: Combine cooked quinoa with the avocado and mango for added texture and protein. You can also add black beans or chickpeas for extra substance.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Grilled Chicken: Top the salad with slices of grilled chicken breast for a protein-packed version. Season the chicken with a citrus or cumin-based rub.
- Coconut Avocado Mango Salad: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair. You could also use coconut milk in the dressing for extra richness.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Shrimp: Add grilled or sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist. Drizzle a bit of chili-lime dressing over the shrimp for extra flavor.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, creamy element to the salad. It pairs well with the sweetness of mango and the richness of avocado.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Pomegranate: Add pomegranate seeds for a burst of tartness and color. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the salad.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potato cubes give the salad a heartier feel. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the mango and avocado.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Cucumber and Red Onion: Add thinly sliced cucumber and red onion for crunch and a little bite. This variation gives the salad a more savory balance.
- Avocado Mango Salad with Lime and Chili Dressing: Create a tangy dressing by whisking together lime juice, chili powder, a bit of honey, and olive oil. Toss the salad with this zesty dressing for a refreshing and spicy finish.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad because the avocado and mango can lose their texture once thawed.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown, so it’s best consumed shortly after preparation.
Special Equipment
- Mandoline Slicer – For thinly slicing the mango and avocado evenly.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – To ensure precise cutting of the mango and avocado without bruising.
- Citrus Juicer – To extract fresh juice from lime or lemon for the dressing.
- Salad Spinner – To quickly dry any greens or herbs before mixing.
- Mixing Bowls – For tossing the salad ingredients together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise measurement of dressing ingredients or seasonings.
- Zester – To add zest from the lime or lemon for extra flavor in the dressing.
- Avocado Slicer – A handy tool to safely and neatly cut, pit, and slice the avocado.
- Herb Chopper – For finely chopping cilantro or mint (if used) to add freshness.
- Tongs or Salad Servers – To gently toss the salad without damaging delicate ingredients like avocado.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen mango if fresh is not available. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water before adding it to the salad. - What if I don’t like cilantro?
You can substitute cilantro with fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor. - How can I make the dressing spicier?
Add more Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dressing an extra zing. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the Avocado Mango Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those on gluten-free diets.
Conclusion
The Avocado Mango Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the perfect combination of creamy avocado, sweet mango, and tangy lime. This salad is an ideal choice for a light lunch, a side dish, or even as a healthy snack. It’s quick to make, full of fresh ingredients, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or other proteins, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. The natural sweetness of mango pairs perfectly with the richness of avocado, making every bite a delightful experience.
I can’t wait to hear how your Avocado Mango Salad turns out! Be sure to share a photo on Instagram and let me know if you customized it in any way. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!