Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

This Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing dip with chips, a topping for tacos, or a side dish for your main meals, this salad brings a delightful zesty tang combined with the sweetness of ripe mangoes. It’s perfect for summer gatherings like potlucks, barbecues, and picnics. The addition of optional edamame boosts its protein content, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in only 15 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Packed with Nutrients: Each ingredient is loaded with vitamins and minerals, ensuring you stay healthy while enjoying delicious flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side, a dip with tortilla chips, or even as a topping for tacos—its uses are endless!
• Vibrant Flavors: The combination of sweet mangoes and creamy avocados creates a taste sensation that will impress everyone.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Avocado Mango Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easy and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 medium mangoes (diced) (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed) (optional)
• 1 cup diced strawberries (about 9 ounces)
• 1 medium avocado (diced)
• 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion (about one-half small onion)
• 1 medium jalapeño (seeded and finely diced)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil leaves (chiffonade)
• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the Dressing

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral flavored oil)
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For Serving

• Tortilla chips (optional)

How to Make Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

Add the mangoes, edamame, strawberries, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, basil, and cilantro to a large bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to combine them gently without mashing the avocado.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime zest and juice, maple syrup, and salt to taste. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the lime dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Gently mix until everything is thoroughly coated in dressing. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious Avocado Mango Salad!

How to Serve Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

This Avocado Mango Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or pair it with other foods, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Dip

• Tortilla Chips: Serve the salad with crunchy tortilla chips for a refreshing dip at gatherings.
• Veggie Sticks: Pair with carrot and cucumber sticks for a healthy snack option.

In Tacos

• Soft Tacos: Use this salad as a filling for soft tacos, adding beans or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Taco Bowls: Layer the salad over brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious taco bowl.

As a Side Dish

• Grilled Protein: Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal full of flavor.
• Barbecue Plates: This salad complements barbecue dishes beautifully, adding freshness to your plate.

On Sandwiches

• Sandwich Spread: Use the salad as a topping on sandwiches or wraps for added texture and taste.
• Toasted Bread: Spread it over toasted bread as an open-faced sandwich option.

How to Perfect Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

To make your Avocado Mango Salad even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe ingredients: Ensure your mango and avocado are ripe for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust lime juice and salt according to your preference for optimal zing.
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or turkey pieces if you want to turn this salad into a main dish.

Best Side Dishes for Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

Pairing your Avocado Mango Salad with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs make a fantastic pairing.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with vegetables adds heartiness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings warmth and depth to the table.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the tangy flavors of the salad beautifully.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides an irresistible contrast to the fresh ingredients in the salad.
6. Brown Rice: Serve alongside brown rice as a wholesome base that soaks up all the flavors of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Avocado Mango Salad, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious result.

• Using underripe fruit: Underripe mangoes and avocados can lead to a lack of flavor. Choose ripe fruits for the best taste.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding salt or lime juice can make your salad bland. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for maximum flavor.
• Overmixing the salad: Mixing too vigorously can mush the avocado. Gently toss the ingredients together to maintain their integrity.
• Neglecting freshness: Using wilted herbs or stale ingredients affects quality. Always opt for fresh produce to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Ignoring personal preferences: Not customizing the recipe may result in a salad that doesn’t suit your taste. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on what you enjoy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in avocado and mango.
• If needed, freeze components separately (e.g., edamame) and combine fresh before serving.

Reheating Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes; this is not typically necessary.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds) if desired, but salad is best enjoyed cold.
• Stovetop: This dish is not meant to be reheated on the stovetop; serve chilled for optimal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions about the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe that might help you understand it better.

What makes this Avocado Mango Salad Recipe so healthy?

This salad is packed with vitamins from fruits and healthy fats from avocados, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I add other ingredients to this Avocado Mango Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding beans, corn, or other seasonal vegetables for added texture and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe?

It takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for any meal.

Is this Avocado Mango Salad Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time; however, consume within two days for best freshness.

What can I serve with the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe?

This salad pairs well with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a refreshing side dish at barbecues.

Final Thoughts

The Avocado Mango Salad is not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or add proteins like chicken or turkey for a satisfying main dish. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!