Mango and Avocado Salad Recipe
You might not realize that the natural enzyme bromelain in mangoes helps break down proteins, making this salad an excellent companion to grilled meats. When you’re combining these tropical fruits, you’ll discover that their contrasting textures and complementary flavors create a dish that’s both sophisticated and approachable. But there’s more to crafting the perfect mango and avocado salad than simply tossing the ingredients together—proper timing and technique will transform this simple combination into a memorable culinary experience.
Overview
- Combine diced ripe mangoes and avocados in a bowl, then drizzle with fresh lime juice for a refreshing tropical salad.
- Gently fold in chopped fresh cilantro or basil to add aromatic depth and complementary herbal flavors.
- Serve within two hours of preparation to maintain freshness and prevent avocado oxidation.
- Optional ingredients like red onion, tomato, or feta cheese can enhance flavor and add textural variety.
- Perfect as a versatile side dish for both casual family dinners and elegant entertaining events.
Recipe
This vibrant mango and avocado salad combines the sweet tropical flavors of ripe mangoes with creamy avocados, creating a perfect balance of tastes and textures. The addition of red onion adds a sharp contrast, while cherry tomatoes bring a burst of invigorating freshness to this colorful dish.
The simple yet elegant preparation allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, enhanced by a light citrus dressing. This revitalizing salad works perfectly as a light lunch option, accompaniment to grilled dishes, or as an appetizing starter course for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
Cooking Steps
Begin your mango and avocado salad preparation by gathering all fresh ingredients and measuring them precisely according to the recipe specifications.
You’ll need to whisk together the citrus dressing mixture in a separate bowl while ensuring your mangoes and avocados are uniformly diced into similar-sized pieces for ideal texture and visual appeal.
After gently tossing all components together with the dressing, you’ll want to chill the salad briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld while maintaining the produce’s crisp freshness.
Step 1. Gather Fresh Ingredients
Before starting the salad preparation, gather all fresh ingredients at their peak ripeness. You’ll know your mangoes are ready when they yield gently to pressure and emit a sweet aroma near the stem.
For selecting avocados, choose ones that give slightly when pressed but aren’t mushy. They should feel heavy for their size.
Your red onion should be firm and free from soft spots, while cherry tomatoes need to be bright, plump, and without blemishes. Fresh cilantro should have vibrant green leaves without any yellowing or wilting.
When picking jalapeños, look for firm, smooth skin with a deep green color.
Store your ripening mangoes and avocados at room temperature until they reach ideal ripeness, then refrigerate to slow the process and maintain freshness.
Step 2. Prepare Citrus Dressing Mixture
Creating the citrus dressing mixture requires precise timing and proper emulsification techniques. You’ll want to begin by combining your dressing components in a small mixing bowl: fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Whisk the ingredients vigorously for 30 seconds to properly emulsify the oil and citrus juice. The dressing should appear slightly thickened and well-blended.
To enhance flavor balance, taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly – you’re looking for a bright, zesty profile that’ll complement both the sweet mango and creamy avocado.
For best results, prepare this dressing just before you’re ready to assemble the salad. If you’ve opted to include the jalapeño, incorporate it into the dressing now to allow its heat to infuse throughout the mixture.
Step 3. Dice Fresh Produce Uniformly
The uniform dicing of fresh produce marks a critical step in guaranteeing both visual appeal and consistent texture throughout your Mango and Avocado Salad.
Begin by making consistent cubed cuts of your mangoes into 1/2-inch pieces. You’ll want to slice around the pit, score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, then carefully separate the cubes from the skin. Apply the same uniform ingredient preparation technique to your avocados, matching the size of your mango pieces.
Slice your red onion paper-thin using a sharp knife or mandoline, and halve the cherry tomatoes along their equator. This precise sizing confirms each forkful delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Remember, evenly sized pieces won’t only make your salad look more professional but will also help ingredients marry together seamlessly.
Step 4. Toss and Combine Gently
Proper assembly technique proves essential when combining your carefully prepared mango and avocado components. To preserve textural integrity, start by drizzling half of your lime-olive oil dressing around the bowl’s sides rather than directly onto the fruits.
Using two large spoons, gently lift and fold the ingredients from the bottom up, rotating the bowl as you work. You’ll want to avoid overworking the salad, as excessive tossing can break down the delicate avocado pieces.
Once the ingredients are evenly distributed, add the remaining dressing and give the salad one final, gentle fold. Your goal is to guarantee each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors while maintaining distinct pieces of mango and avocado that hold their shape on the fork.
Step 5. Chill Until Service Time
Once you’ve assembled the salad, refrigerate it for 30-45 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld while maintaining ideal texture. Place the salad in an airtight container to prevent oxidation of the avocados and maintain the ingredients’ freshness.
While chilling, you’ll want to keep the temperature between 35-40°F (2-4°C) for perfect results. Don’t let the salad sit in the refrigerator for more than 2 hours, as the avocados may begin to brown and the mangoes can release excess moisture.
If you’re preparing this for a gathering, you can store the cut ingredients separately and combine them just before the 30-minute chilling period. When you’re ready to serve, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.
Top Tips
To guarantee your Mango and Avocado Salad achieves perfect flavor and presentation, follow these essential preparation techniques:
Choose mangoes that give slightly when pressed but aren’t mushy – they’ll deliver the best sweetness and texture. When you’re prepping avocados, select fruits that yield gently to pressure while maintaining firmness. You’ll find the ripest specimens have a dark, almost black skin tone.
For ideal storage, toss your diced avocados in lime juice immediately to prevent browning. If you’re planning ahead, you can prep the mangoes and dressing up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to cut the avocados until just before serving. When storing leftovers, press plastic wrap directly onto the salad’s surface to minimize oxidation, and consume within 24 hours for the freshest taste.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Sodium | 310mg |
Additional Nutritional Notes:
This salad provides healthy monounsaturated fats from avocados, which support heart health and aid nutrient absorption. Mangoes deliver essential vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health. The combination of fiber from both fruits helps promote digestive health and sustained energy levels.
Disclaimer:
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, ripeness of fruits, and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, calculate based on the exact products and amounts used in your preparation.
Final Thoughts
While this Mango and Avocado Salad offers remarkable versatility in your kitchen repertoire, its success depends heavily on selecting perfectly ripe fruits and precise timing during preparation. You’ll find that mastering this recipe opens up countless serving opportunities, from casual family dinners to elegant entertaining.
The visual appeal of this dish makes it a standout addition to your table, and you’ll appreciate how easily you can adapt it to your guests’ preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredient ratios or optional add-ins to make it uniquely yours.
Remember that proper storage and timing are essential – you’ll achieve the best results by serving within two hours of preparation. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this salad will become a trusted staple in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Mango Instead of Fresh Mango?
Like a winter’s day transformed to spring, you can use frozen mango, but expect a softer texture and slightly muted flavor. Thaw and drain thoroughly before adding to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
How Long Will Leftover Salad Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?
You’ll want to consume your leftover salad within 24 hours of preparation, even with proper refrigeration. For best results, store it in an airtight container and keep it chilled at 40°F or below.
What Other Fruits Can I Substitute for Mango?
Looking to switch up your tropical flavors? You can substitute mango with sweet peach and pineapple chunks or try papaya and kiwi slices – they’ll maintain the salad’s vibrant profile while offering similar juicy textures.
Is This Salad Suitable for a Keto Diet?
This salad isn’t ideal for your keto dietary restrictions due to the mango’s high sugar content (15g per serving). You’ll need to modify it by removing the mango and adding more keto-friendly ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Spicier Without Using Jalapeños?
You can easily spice up your dish by adding red pepper flakes or chili powder to taste. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and gradually increase. You’ll find these alternatives offer consistent heat throughout.
