Avocado Mango Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy dish that combines creamy avocado with sweet, juicy mangoes, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. This salad is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition, making it a perfect side dish for any meal or a light, refreshing lunch on its own. The combination of creamy avocado, fruity mango, and zesty lime is both refreshing and satisfying, offering a burst of tropical flavors that will transport you to a sunny paradise.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Avocado Mango Salad is the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, with the creaminess of the avocado and the sweetness of the mango complementing each other beautifully. The crunchy vegetables like red onion and bell peppers add texture, while the lime dressing ties everything together with a burst of citrus. It’s incredibly easy to make, full of vibrant colors, and packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer, a side dish for your BBQ, or a healthy snack, this salad is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado (diced)
- 1 ripe mango (peeled, pitted, and diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chopped jalapeño (for some heat)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the avocado and mango. Slice the red onion and red bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the cilantro and set all the ingredients aside in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you like a bit of spice, you can also add chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeño to the dressing.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the diced avocado, mango, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: None
Variations
- Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans to the salad for a boost of protein.
- Spicy kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicier version of the salad.
- Additional veggies: Add diced cucumber, corn kernels, or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier version, add a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly over time, but it will still be delicious.
- Refrigeration: If you plan to make it ahead, you can prepare the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving to avoid the avocado from browning.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to make this salad just before serving to preserve the freshness of the avocado and mango. However, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and toss them together right before serving.
2. What can I substitute for the mango?
If mango is out of season or not available, you can substitute it with pineapple, peaches, or papaya for a similarly sweet and tropical flavor.
3. How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?
To prevent the avocado from browning, try using the freshest possible avocado and tossing it with the lime juice as soon as you cut it. Lime juice helps preserve the green color.
4. Can I add some crunch to the salad?
Yes! You can add some toasted nuts, such as almonds or cashews, or even some crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Can I use frozen mango?
While fresh mango is ideal for this salad, frozen mango can be used if fresh mango isn’t available. Just thaw it and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the salad.
6. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lime dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just shake it well before using.
7. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
8. How can I make the salad sweeter?
If you like a sweeter salad, you can drizzle a little honey or agave nectar over the top. You can also add extra mango for a more pronounced sweetness.
9. Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes! To add some heat, dice a jalapeño pepper and toss it into the salad, or sprinkle chili flakes over the top for a spicy kick.
10. Can I use other herbs besides cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley, mint, or basil for a different herbal flavor.
Conclusion
Avocado Mango Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of tropical flavors. With creamy avocado, sweet mango, and crisp vegetables, this salad is perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or even as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. The tangy lime dressing ties everything together beautifully, making each bite burst with freshness. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing summer dish or a light year-round salad, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Print
Avocado Mango Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Avocado Mango Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines creamy avocado with juicy mangoes, fresh vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s a refreshing and nutritious salad, perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado (diced)
- 1 ripe mango (peeled, pitted, and diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chopped jalapeño (for some heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Peel and dice the avocado and mango. Slice the red onion and bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the cilantro and set all ingredients aside in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeño if you prefer some heat.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the diced avocado, mango, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge, if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add toasted nuts or crispy tortilla strips.
- For a sweeter version, drizzle honey or agave nectar over the salad.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150-200
- Sugar: 12-15g
- Sodium: 5-10mg
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10-12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg