Avocado Mango Salad

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Avocado Mango Salad is a refreshing, tropical-inspired dish that brings together creamy avocado, sweet, juicy mango, and a zesty citrus dressing for a perfect harmony of flavors. Every bite delivers a balance of rich and refreshing textures, making it an ideal side dish or a light, wholesome meal. Bursting with fresh, vibrant ingredients, this salad is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and packed with nutrients, offering a delicious way to enjoy a taste of the tropics.

The first time I made this salad, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. Chopping the ripe avocados and mangoes, then tossing them with a bright lime dressing and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, felt like crafting a work of art. The combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors was absolutely irresistible, and it quickly became a go-to favorite in my kitchen.

What I love most about Avocado Mango Salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish, pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish, or even add a handful of arugula or quinoa for extra texture. Try sprinkling in some chili flakes for a hint of heat or tossing in toasted nuts for a satisfying crunch. However you serve it, this salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed delight that makes every meal feel a little fresher and brighter.

Perfect for:

  • Summer gatherings
  • Healthy lunches
  • Light dinners
  • BBQ side dishes
  • Refreshing appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Avocado Mango Salad is a must-try:

  • Fresh and Vibrant: Every bite bursts with bright, tropical flavors.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
  • Versatile: Works as a side dish, topping, or light meal.
  • Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Perfect for all diets.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: None
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Fiber: 7g, Healthy Fats: 15g, Vitamin C: 60% DV

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Avocado Mango Salad:

  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1 large ripe mango, diced
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for spice)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon chili flakes for extra heat

Ingredient Highlights

  • Avocado: Provides a creamy texture and heart-healthy fats.
  • Mango: Adds natural sweetness and tropical flavor.
  • Lime Juice: Enhances the freshness and prevents avocado from browning.
  • Olive Oil: A touch of richness balances the salad.
  • Cilantro & Jalapeño: Offer a fresh and slightly spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Dice the Avocado and Mango: Cut both into bite-sized cubes.
  2. Slice the Onion and Tomatoes: Thinly slice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes.
  3. Chop the Cilantro and Jalapeño: Finely chop for even distribution.

Make the Dressing:

  1. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss avocado, mango, onion, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño.
  2. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to combine.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle with chili flakes if desired.
  2. Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh or chill for 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.

How to Serve

  • As a Standalone Side – Serve it in a bowl as a light and refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.
  • With Tortilla Chips – Enjoy it as a dip with crispy tortilla chips for a tropical twist on guacamole.
  • Topped on Grilled Protein – Spoon it over grilled salmon, shrimp, or chicken for a fresh and flavorful contrast.
  • In Tacos – Use it as a filling for tacos with grilled fish, shrimp, or shredded chicken. The creamy avocado and sweet mango balance out the spice.
  • With Quinoa or Rice – Mix it with cooked quinoa or jasmine rice for a heartier, nutrient-packed salad.
  • Stuffed in Avocado Halves – Hollow out an avocado and fill it with the salad for an elegant and fun presentation.
  • Wrapped in Lettuce Cups – Spoon it into butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a refreshing, low-carb option.
  • As a Toast Topping – Spread mashed avocado on toasted bread and top it with the mango salad for a vibrant, summery bruschetta.
  • With Grilled Halloumi or Feta – Pair it with grilled halloumi cheese or crumbled feta for a salty, creamy contrast.
  • In a Poke Bowl – Add it to a poke bowl with sushi-grade tuna, rice, and sesame seeds for a delicious Hawaiian-inspired meal.

Additional Tips

  • Choose Ripe but Firm Avocados – Avoid overripe avocados that may turn mushy in the salad. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but still hold their shape when diced.
  • Use a Sweet, Ripe Mango – Pick a mango that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. Overripe mangoes can be too mushy, while underripe ones may be too tart and fibrous.
  • Balance Flavors with Citrus – A splash of lime juice or lemon juice enhances freshness and prevents the avocado from browning. It also adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the mango.
  • Add Crunch for Texture – Toss in chopped nuts (like toasted almonds, cashews, or pecans) or seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds) for extra crunch and depth.
  • Incorporate a Spicy Kick – A pinch of red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce can add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the mango.
  • Use Fresh Herbs – Finely chopped cilantro, mint, or basil brings an extra layer of freshness and aroma to the salad.
  • Mix in a Protein – Add grilled shrimp, diced grilled chicken, or black beans to turn the salad into a heartier dish.
  • Drizzle with a Light Dressing – A simple dressing made of olive oil, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt enhances the flavors without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients.
  • Chill Before Serving – Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and keep it refreshing.
  • Serve with a Crunchy Base – Enjoy the salad on a bed of arugula, baby spinach, or romaine lettuce, or serve it alongside tortilla chips for an extra crunch.

Recipe Variations

  1. Avocado Mango Black Bean Salad: Add black beans for protein and fiber.
  2. Spicy Thai-Inspired Salad: Toss with peanuts and a spicy peanut dressing.
  3. Cucumber Avocado Mango Salad: Add sliced cucumbers for extra crunch.
  4. Avocado Mango Quinoa Salad: Mix in cooked quinoa for a heartier meal.
  5. Mediterranean Twist: Replace cilantro with basil and add feta cheese.
  6. Grilled Mango Salad: Lightly grill the mango slices before adding for a smoky flavor.
  7. Pineapple Mango Avocado Salad: Add diced pineapple for extra tropical sweetness.
  8. Creamy Version: Toss with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
  9. Mango Avocado Salsa: Dice everything finely and serve as a salsa for tacos.
  10. Citrus Herb Dressing: Use lemon juice and mint instead of lime and cilantro for a new flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed fresh.
  • Avoid Freezing: Avocados don’t freeze well and will become mushy upon thawing.

Special Equipment

  • Sharp Chef’s Knife – Essential for cleanly slicing mangoes, avocados, and other ingredients without bruising them.
  • Mango Slicer – A handy tool that quickly removes the pit and slices the mango into even sections.
  • Avocado Slicer or Pitter – Helps remove the pit and slice the avocado neatly without making a mess.
  • Citrus Juicer or Reamer – Extracts fresh lime or lemon juice efficiently, adding brightness to the salad dressing.
  • Mandoline Slicer – Ideal for getting thin, even slices of ingredients like red onions or cucumbers.
  • Mixing Bowl – A large bowl for tossing the salad ingredients without spilling.
  • Salad Spinner – If adding greens like arugula or spinach, this helps remove excess water for a crisp texture.
  • Microplane Zester – Great for zesting citrus fruits like lime or orange to enhance the salad’s flavor.
  • Tongs or Salad Servers – Makes mixing and serving the delicate avocado and mango pieces easier without smashing them.
  • Glass or Wooden Salad Bowl – Enhances presentation and keeps the salad fresh for serving.

FAQ

  1. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  2. What if I don’t like cilantro? Substitute with fresh basil or parsley.
  3. Can I add protein? Yes, grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu make great additions.
  4. Is this salad keto-friendly? Yes, just omit the honey for a low-carb version.
  5. Can I use frozen mango? Fresh is best, but thawed frozen mango works in a pinch.

Conclusion

Avocado Mango Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to any meal. Whether served as a vibrant side, a fresh dip, or a light main course, this salad is a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the sweet mango, while a zesty lime dressing ties everything together for a bright and satisfying bite.

Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, this salad is perfect for warm-weather meals, picnics, or a healthy snack. Customize it with ingredients like red onion, cilantro, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. However you make it, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite!

I’d love to see your take on Avocado Mango Salad! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your creations. Don’t forget to share your favorite additions in the comments. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment