If you are looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that bursts with tropical flavors and a hint of spice, this Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine juicy mangoes, creamy avocado, tart strawberries, and a touch of jalapeño coming together with fresh herbs and a zesty lime dressing—it’s like sunshine on your plate. Whether you want a quick lunch, a lively side, or a stunning dish to impress your friends, this salad balances sweet, savory, and tangy elements perfectly, making it a personal favorite that’s both simple and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures. From creamy avocado to the bright pop of strawberries, every component plays an essential role in making this salad not only delicious but visually appealing.
- 2 medium mangoes (diced): Ripe mangoes provide natural sweetness and juicy texture that defines the salad.
- 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed, optional): Adds a subtle earthiness and protein boost, plus a fun bite.
- 1 cup diced strawberries: These bring a fresh, tart contrast that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 medium avocado (diced): Creamy and smooth, avocado balances the sweet and spicy notes perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion: Adds a sharp, pungent crunch that lifts the flavors.
- 1 medium jalapeño (seeded and finely diced): For a gentle heat that complements without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves: Fresh basil gives a hint of aromatic sweetness and peppery undertones.
- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro: Bright and citrusy, cilantro enhances the overall freshness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: This oil adds a nutty depth that layers beautifully with the citrus.
- Zest of 1 lime: Lime zest infuses a fragrant citrus punch that wakes up the palate.
- 1/4 cup lime juice: Brings acidity and zing, balancing the sweetness and richness.
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup: Natural sweetness that rounds out the tangy flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient and ties the flavors together.
How to Make Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Start by gently dicing the mangoes, avocado, and strawberries into bite-sized pieces so every forkful gives you a perfect medley of flavors. If you’re including edamame, make sure it’s thawed and ready to go. finely dice the red onion and jalapeño, ensuring you remove the seeds to keep the salad pleasantly spicy but not fiery.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced mangoes, edamame, strawberries, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, basil, and cilantro. This combination showcases a vibrant mix of colors and textures, creating the foundation for your Avocado Mango Salad Recipe.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime zest, lime juice, maple syrup, and salt until everything is smoothly combined. This is the magic touch that ties all the fresh ingredients together with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and nutty flavors.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over your colorful salad mixture and gently toss with care to keep the avocado from becoming mushy. Make sure every piece is lightly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor in every bite. Now, your Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is ready to shine!
How to Serve Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and burst of flavor, garnish your salad with a few extra basil leaves, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a thin wedge of lime on the side. These little additions not only amplify taste but also make your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, offering a refreshing contrast to smoky, savory mains. It also works beautifully alongside rice bowls or crispy tacos, adding a tropical burst to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe in colorful bowls or even hollowed-out mango shells for a playful presentation. For gatherings, you can layer it in clear jars to showcase the bright ingredients, or use it as a colorful topper on crunchy crostini for a fun appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the avocado, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to prevent browning and maintain freshness. A quick stir before serving will bring all the colors back to life.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the delicate texture of avocado and fresh fruits, which can become mushy and lose their vibrant texture once thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. It tastes best chilled or at room temperature, so simply give it a gentle toss and enjoy as is.
FAQs
Can I substitute mango with another fruit?
Yes! While mango brings a unique tropical sweetness, you can swap it for peaches or pineapple for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile in your Avocado Mango Salad Recipe.
Is the jalapeño necessary?
The jalapeño adds a nice mild heat that complements the sweetness of the fruit, but feel free to omit it if you prefer a completely mild salad or replace it with a milder pepper.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! This Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is naturally vegan since all ingredients are plant-based. Just ensure that any optional add-ons are vegan-friendly too.
What’s the best way to keep the avocado from browning?
Using lime juice in the dressing helps slow down browning, and gently tossing the avocado right before serving keeps it looking fresh and vibrant.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Adding cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even chickpeas can turn this beautiful salad into a more substantial meal while maintaining its refreshing vibe.
Final Thoughts
This Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is a true delight, brimming with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients that make every bite feel special. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your lunch or impress guests with a simple yet stunning dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and savor the unique blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy sensations that only this recipe can offer.
Print
Avocado Mango Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Avocado Mango Salad combines sweet mangoes, creamy avocado, fresh strawberries, and a hint of jalapeño for a refreshing, tropical-inspired dish. Tossed with a zesty lime and sesame oil dressing, this salad is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium mangoes, diced
- 1 cup shelled edamame, thawed (optional)
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1 medium avocado, diced
- 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced mangoes, shelled edamame (if using), diced strawberries, diced avocado, finely diced red onion, seeded and finely diced jalapeño, thinly sliced basil leaves, and chopped cilantro. Gently mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime zest, lime juice, maple syrup, and salt until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss all ingredients together, being careful not to mash the avocado, until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best fresh flavor.
Notes
- For added protein, include the shelled edamame or substitute with chickpeas if preferred.
- The jalapeño can be adjusted or omitted based on your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for maximum brightness in flavor.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day; avoid long storage to prevent avocado browning.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or agave syrup if desired.
