Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

This Avocado Mango Salad Recipe is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the best of summer flavors. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side at any meal. The combination of creamy avocado, sweet mango, and zesty lime creates a delightful balance that will please any palate. With optional edamame for added protein, this salad is both satisfying and versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in only 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Nutrient-Packed: Filled with vitamins from fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s a healthy addition to any meal.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for tacos, or as a stand-alone side dish.
• Flavorful Fusion: The mix of sweet mango, creamy avocado, and zesty lime gives a refreshing taste that stands out.
• Colorful Presentation: Its bright colors make this salad visually appealing, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, gather these essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment can streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together dressings and sauces separately.
• Whisk: Helps in blending the dressing ingredients smoothly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Avocado Mango Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

• 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

Dressing Ingredients

• 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)

Serving Suggestion

• Tortilla chips (for serving optional)

How to Make Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

Follow these easy steps to prepare your delicious Avocado Mango Salad.

Step 1: Mix the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. The diced mangoes.
2. Optional thawed edamame.
3. Diced strawberries.
4. Diced avocado.
5. Finely diced red onion.
6. Seeded jalapeño.
7. Chiffonade basil leaves.
8. Chopped cilantro.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the sesame oil, lime zest, lime juice, maple syrup, and salt to taste until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture:
1. Gently mix all ingredients until fully incorporated and coated with dressing.

This vibrant Avocado Mango Salad is now ready to serve! Enjoy it fresh at your next gathering or as part of your meal prep for the week!

How to Serve Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

This Avocado Mango Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance its flavors and make it a hit at any gathering.

As a Dip

• Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy snack. The sweet and tangy flavors pair perfectly with the salty chips.

In Tacos

• Add this salad as a fresh topping for tacos. It adds brightness and complements grilled chicken or turkey beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. The salad’s zesty notes balance well with savory main dishes.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing entrée. Drizzle with extra lime juice for added zest.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Prepare in advance and store in the fridge. This salad keeps well, making it an easy grab-and-go lunch option.

How to Perfect Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

To elevate your Avocado Mango Salad, consider these simple tips that will enhance its taste and presentation.

• Choose ripe ingredients: Use ripe mangoes and avocados for maximum flavor and creaminess.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad, adjusting lime juice or maple syrup as needed.
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier meal option. Edamame is also great if you prefer plant-based protein.
• Mix gently: Combine the salad ingredients carefully to avoid mashing the avocado while ensuring everything is coated evenly.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

Serving your Avocado Mango Salad alongside complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection. Great for outdoor barbecues.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds texture and nutrition.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring warmth to your meal.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a satisfying option.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or olive oil enhances summer vibes.
6. Cucumber Salsa: A refreshing cucumber salsa provides crunch and pairs well with many dishes.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness that complements the salad’s flavors.
8. Chickpea Hummus: Creamy hummus served with veggie sticks offers another healthy snacking option alongside the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Avocado Mango Salad, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust the flavors of your salad, especially with salt and lime juice.
• Bold ingredient prep: Failing to properly prepare your ingredients, like not dicing them uniformly, can affect the salad’s presentation and texture. Aim for uniform sizes for even mixing.
• Bold overmixing: Overmixing can mush the avocado and ruin the salad’s texture. Toss gently to combine the ingredients without breaking them down too much.
• Bold using unripe fruit: Using unripe mangoes or avocados will result in a less flavorful dish. Choose ripe fruits for the best taste and texture.
• Bold neglecting freshness: Using wilted herbs or stale ingredients can detract from your salad. Always use fresh produce for vibrant flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

• Not recommended for freezing due to avocado texture changes.
• Fresh ingredients are best enjoyed right away.

Reheating Avocado Mango Salad Recipe

• Oven: Not recommended as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; it affects flavor and texture negatively.
• Stovetop: Not suitable; enjoy it fresh instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe.

Can I add other fruits to the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to include fruits like pineapple or kiwi for added sweetness and flavor.

How long does the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe last in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh in an airtight container for about 1-2 days.

Is there a way to make the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe spicier?

Absolutely! You can add more jalapeño or even include diced chili peppers for extra heat.

Can I prepare the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe ahead of time?

You can chop ingredients ahead but mix them just before serving to maintain freshness.

What can I serve with the Avocado Mango Salad Recipe?

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

Final Thoughts

The Avocado Mango Salad is not only delicious but also easy to customize. Its bright flavors make it ideal for summer gatherings or light meals. Experiment with different fruits or add protein sources like chickpeas or grilled chicken to suit your taste preferences!