This Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is a vibrant and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing for a picnic, or just looking for a quick and healthy side, this salad has you covered. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavors, it combines the sweetness of mangoes with the creaminess of avocado, creating a delightful balance that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
- Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vitamins from fresh fruits and vegetables, this dish is not only tasty but also good for you.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a dip with chips, add it to tacos, or enjoy it on its own as a light main dish.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or casual dinner at home, this salad fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and easy.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining all your fresh ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: This handy tool helps create a smooth dressing by thoroughly mixing liquids together.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping fruits and vegetables.
Ingredients
This Avocado Mango Salad is vitamin-loaded and ready in 15 minutes. Dip with chips, or add to tacos, or main dishes for a zesty tang and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for summer potlucks, barbecues, and picnics. Optional edamame for protein.
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
- 2 medium mangoes (diced (about 1 cup))
- 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed (optional))
- 1 cup diced strawberries (about 9 ounces)
- 1 medium avocado (diced)
- 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion (about one-half small onion)
- 1 medium jalapeño (seeded and finely diced)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves (chiffonade)
- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral flavored oil)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
For Serving
- Tortilla chips (for serving (optional))
How to Make Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
Step 1: Mix Fresh Ingredients
Add the mangoes, edamame, strawberries, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, basil, and cilantro to a large bowl.
Step 2: Make Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime zest and juice, maple syrup, and salt to taste.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Pour the lime dressing over the salad mixture. Gently mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Enjoy your refreshing Avocado Mango Salad!
How to Serve Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
This Avocado Mango Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways that enhance its flavors and textures.
With Tortilla Chips
- Enjoy as a dip with crispy tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.
As a Taco Filling
- Use it as a vibrant filling for tacos, adding freshness and sweetness to each bite.
Over Grilled Chicken or Fish
- Spoon the salad over grilled chicken or fish for a colorful and healthy main dish.
In a Wrap
- Roll it up in a wrap with your favorite protein for a filling lunch option.
On Top of Greens
- Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
How to Perfect Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
To ensure your Avocado Mango Salad is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose ripe fruits: Select mangoes and avocados that yield slightly to pressure for optimal creaminess and sweetness.
- Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust lime juice, salt, or maple syrup according to your preference.
- Add crunch: For extra texture, consider adding nuts or seeds like chopped almonds or sunflower seeds.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and cilantro enhance the flavor profile. Always choose fresh over dried.
Best Side Dishes for Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Avocado Mango Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and complement the salad’s flavors.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with vegetables provides a nutritious base alongside the salad.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls bring an Asian twist that pairs well with the zesty salad.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall dish.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or beans offer a hearty side option.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the tangy notes of the salad.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing complements the rich flavors of avocado and mango.
- Rice Paper Tacos: Light rice paper tacos filled with veggies provide an alternative way to enjoy your salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Avocado Mango Salad Recipe. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines:
- Overmixing: Gently combine ingredients to keep the avocado intact. Overmixing can turn the salad mushy.
- Neglecting seasoning: Always taste and adjust the salt and sweetness. A little additional lime juice or maple syrup can enhance flavors.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add depth to your salad. Don’t skip the basil and cilantro for that vibrant taste.
- Using underripe mangoes: Ensure your mangoes are ripe for a sweeter, juicier salad. A ripe mango will yield slightly when pressed gently.
- Ignoring presentation: Take time to plate your salad beautifully. An appealing presentation makes it more enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best texture.
Freezing Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
- This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the avocado’s texture change when thawed.
Reheating Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
- Oven: Not applicable as this salad is served cold.
- Microwave: Not recommended; best enjoyed fresh.
- Stovetop: Not applicable; this salad should be served cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe:
Can I make Avocado Mango Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time but add the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for edamame?
If you prefer, you can use black beans or chickpeas as a protein alternative.
How do I choose ripe mangoes?
Look for mangoes that yield slightly under gentle pressure and have a fruity aroma near the stem end.
Can I customize my Avocado Mango Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like pineapple or nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish, it’s easy to customize with different fruits and add-ins. Give it a try, and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!
Avocado Mango Salad
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of this Avocado Mango Salad Recipe, a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delightful combination of creamy avocado and sweet mango, this salad is not just easy to prepare but also brimming with nutrients. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a zesty side dish. The addition of strawberries and a hint of lime dressing elevates the taste, ensuring each bite is a burst of flavor. This versatile salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled proteins. Give it a try and experience the joy of fresh ingredients!
- Total Time: 1 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 medium mangoes (diced)
- 1 cup shelled edamame (optional)
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1 medium avocado (diced)
- 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1 medium jalapeño (seeded and diced)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced mangoes, edamame (if using), strawberries, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, basil, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, lime zest and juice, maple syrup, and salt.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until well combined.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Feel free to customize by adding other fruits like pineapple or nuts for added texture.
