With summer in full swing, nothing quite captures the season’s essence like a bowl of vibrant mango salad. There’s something magical about the way juicy mangoes mingle with crisp cucumbers, crunchy bell peppers, and sweet cherry tomatoes in this Mango Salad Recipe with Lime Dressing. Not only is this salad a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a quick and healthy dish that’s perfect for those sunny gatherings or light lunches. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a picnic or simply want a refreshing snack, this colorful concoction is sure to delight. Curious how the perfect zesty lime dressing brings it all together? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that showcases the best of summer!
Why is this Mango Salad a Must-Try?
Vibrant, fresh ingredients: Each bite delivers a delightful burst of flavor from juicy mangoes, crisp cucumbers, and sweet cherry tomatoes, creating a summer experience in the bowl.
Quick and easy: With simple preparation steps, you can whip up this salad in no time, ideal for busy days or spontaneous gatherings.
Healthy indulgence: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is a guilt-free delight, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
Versatile pairing: Enjoy it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a stand-alone meal—this salad adapts to any occasion! For additional refreshing options, you might also love our Feta Avocado Salad or the delicious Mango Chia Pudding as a light dessert.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a picnic, BBQ, or family dinner, this colorful salad is sure to be a hit with both friends and family alike!
Mango Salad Ingredients
• Elevate your summer meals with these essentials!
For the Salad
- Ripe Mangoes – Adds sweetness and juicy texture, forming the salad’s heart. Substitution Note: Frozen mangoes can be used if thawed and drained.
- Red Onion – Provides a sharp, savory bite that balances sweetness. Use pickled red onions for a tangier flavor.
- Cucumber – Offers a clean, refreshing crunch. No substitutions needed; can vary thickness according to preference.
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds mild peppery flavor and vibrant color. Any color bell pepper can be used, but red is sweeter.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Contributes juicy acidity and extra texture. Replace with grape tomatoes or omit if preferred.
- Fresh Cilantro – Brings a citrusy-herb flavor that complements the lime dressing. Mint can be used for a similar freshness or omitted for a more neutral flavor.
- Fresh Mint – Adds a bright, cooling note. Can be omitted or substituted with basil for a different profile.
For the Dressing
- Fresh Lime Juice – The dressing’s base, providing zesty brightness. Lemon juice is an acceptable substitute, though it alters the flavor slightly.
- Honey – Offers a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity. Use maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.
- Olive Oil – Creates a silky texture in the dressing. Any light oil can be a substitute, though flavor may vary.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor, intensifying sweetness and brightness. Adjust based on personal taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and spice to the dressing. Can be omitted for a milder version.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Salad Recipe with Lime Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Mango and Vegetables
Start by peeling and slicing two ripe mangoes into bite-sized cubes. Next, dice half a red onion, slice one cucumber into thin rounds, and chop one red bell pepper into small pieces. Finally, halve a handful of cherry tomatoes. Arrange all the freshly cut ingredients in a large mixing bowl, creating a colorful base for your Mango Salad.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the juice of two fresh limes, two tablespoons of honey, three tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Using a whisk, vigorously blend the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, emulsified dressing. This zesty lime dressing will bring a refreshing brightness to your Mango Salad Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
With the lime dressing prepared, gently add the diced mango, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes to a large mixing bowl. To enhance the flavor profile, chop a handful of fresh cilantro and mint, tossing them into the bowl. Ensure that you mix everything lightly to maintain the integrity of the ingredients while creating a vibrant, harmonious mixture.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Carefully pour the lime dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Using a large spoon, toss the ingredients gently to coat them in the tangy dressing. Be cautious not to bruise the delicate mango pieces. This step is crucial for building the incredible flavor that makes this Mango Salad Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Once the salad is dressed, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Afterward, serve the Mango Salad cold, and prepare for compliments as the vibrant medley brightens up your summer gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Salad
Fridge: Store your Mango Salad in a sealed container for up to 2 days. To retain freshness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the mango and vegetables will suffer. However, if you have leftovers, consider freezing the mango separately and using it in smoothies or desserts later.
Reheating: Enjoy the salad cold; if you need to bring it back to room temperature after chilling, let it sit out for about 15 minutes. Avoid exposing it to heat, as this can make the vegetables wilt.
Tip: Always dress the Mango Salad before serving to avoid sogginess, ensuring a delightful crunch with each bite!
Make Ahead Options
These refreshing Mango Salad with Lime Dressing components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can chop the mangoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them crisp and vibrant. For optimal flavor, prepare the lime dressing separately and refrigerate up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the dressing, toss gently, and enjoy this zesty, crowd-pleasing salad just as delicious as when it’s freshly made!
Tips for the Best Mango Salad
- Use Ripe Mangoes: Ensure your mangoes are perfectly ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor; avoid overripe or underripe ones for the best results.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors meld, making your Mango Salad Recipe even more delicious.
- Avoid Sogginess: Dress your salad right before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy; store dressing separately if preparing in advance.
- Experiment with Herbs: While cilantro and mint brighten the dish, feel free to play with other herbs like basil for unique flavor twists in your Mango Salad.
- Balance the Dressing: Adjust lime juice and honey to achieve your desired tanginess and sweetness; taste and tweak as necessary for a balanced dressing.
- Add Crunch: Enhance texture by incorporating nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or walnuts, adding delightful crunch to your Mango Salad Recipe.
Mango Salad Recipe with Lime Dressing Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and tailor this refreshing mango salad to your taste buds!
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Peach Twist: Substitute mangoes with ripe peaches for a sweet, juicy variation that brings a delightful twist.
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Creamy Avocado: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats, transforming this light salad into an even more satisfying dish.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of walnuts or sunflower seeds to add a delightful crunch and extra nutritional value, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Spicy Kick: Kick up the flavor by adding a diced jalapeño or sprinkle of red pepper flakes, giving your mango salad a spicy edge that excites the palate.
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Tropical Boost: Mix in some diced pineapple or fresh coconut to amplify the tropical vibes and those summertime feelings, transporting you straight to the beach.
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Herb Variety: Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley for unique flavor profiles that complement the mango beautifully.
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Fruity Addition: Incorporate diced strawberries or blueberries for additional bursts of flavor and color, making every spoonful a fruity delight.
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Vegan Delight: For a completely vegan option, swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar while ensuring that your other ingredients are plant-based, if needed.
This mango salad is all about versatility and finding what makes your taste buds dance! And if you’re searching for more refreshing ideas, try our Yum Woon Salad or a lovely Mango Sago Delightful for your next summer gathering.
What to Serve with Refreshing Mango Salad with Lime Dressing
Brighten up your meal with delightful pairings that complement this cheerful summer salad!
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky, grilled chicken adds protein, balancing the fresh flavors of the salad, making it a complete meal.
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Shrimp Tacos: The zesty lime dressing harmonizes perfectly with the shrimp’s sweetness, creating a vibrant flavor explosion that enhances your dining experience.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa provides a hearty base, harmonizing with the salad’s crunchy elements, while soaking up the flavorful dressing.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread pairs wonderfully, adding richness that contrasts nicely with the bright, zesty notes of the mango salad.
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Spicy Black Bean Soup: The heat from the soup beautifully offsets the cool, refreshing salad, creating a delightful balance that excites the palate.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine enhances the bright flavors of the mango salad while providing a refreshing accompaniment to your meal.
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Coconut Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note! The lightness of coconut sorbet cleanses the palate, while its tropical hints mirror the salad’s fruity flair.
Mango Salad Recipe with Lime Dressing Recipe FAQs
What kind of mangoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s best to use ripe mangoes for their sweet, juicy flavor and optimal texture. Look for mangoes that yield slightly to pressure and have a fragrant aroma. Avoid overripe mangoes with dark spots all over, as they may be too mushy.
How should I store the mango salad?
To keep your Mango Salad fresh, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To ensure crispness, make sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, as overdressing can make the vegetables soggy.
Can I freeze leftover mango salad?
Freezing is not recommended for mango salad since the texture of the mango and vegetables will change, becoming mushy. However, if you have leftover mango, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months and later use them in smoothies or desserts.
What if I don’t like cilantro or mint?
Very! If cilantro and mint are not your favorites, feel free to omit them or replace them with fresh basil for a different flavor profile. You can also add other herbs you enjoy, such as parsley, to enhance the dish while keeping it fresh and vibrant!
Can I make this salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and keep them separate until serving. The vegetables can be chopped a few hours ahead of time, but be sure to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the salad’s fresh crunch. Just chill the prepared salad for around 15 minutes to help the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
Mango Salad Recipe with Lime Dressing for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and slicing two ripe mangoes into bite-sized cubes. Next, dice half a red onion, slice one cucumber into thin rounds, and chop one red bell pepper into small pieces. Finally, halve a handful of cherry tomatoes. Arrange all the freshly cut ingredients in a large mixing bowl, creating a colorful base for your Mango Salad.
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of two fresh limes, two tablespoons of honey, three tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Using a whisk, vigorously blend the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, emulsified dressing. This zesty lime dressing will bring a refreshing brightness to your Mango Salad Recipe.
- With the lime dressing prepared, gently add the diced mango, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes to a large mixing bowl. To enhance the flavor profile, chop a handful of fresh cilantro and mint, tossing them into the bowl. Ensure that you mix everything lightly to maintain the integrity of the ingredients while creating a vibrant, harmonious mixture.
- Carefully pour the lime dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Using a large spoon, toss the ingredients gently to coat them in the tangy dressing. Be cautious not to bruise the delicate mango pieces. This step is crucial for building the incredible flavor that makes this Mango Salad Recipe truly irresistible.
- Once the salad is dressed, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Afterward, serve the Mango Salad cold, and prepare for compliments as the vibrant medley brightens up your summer gatherings!
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