If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweetness, tang, and a hint of zest, this Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe is just the sunshine your kitchen needs. Bursting with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s the kind of salad that feels like a tropical escape in every bite. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a summery lunch or add a refreshing side to your dinner, this recipe brings together simplicity and a burst of bold tastes that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients list, each playing a crucial role in crafting the refreshing and balanced taste. From juicy mangoes that bring natural sweetness to the crisp cucumbers adding a cool crunch, every element shines in this colorful mix.
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced: Choose mangoes that give slightly under gentle pressure for maximum juiciness and sweetness.
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced: Adds crispness and a refreshing contrast to the mango’s softness.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Gives a subtle sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced: Provides a mild sharpness that balances the salad’s flavors.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped: Brings an herbaceous brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed): Essential for the tangy lime dressing that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to gently coat ingredients and add smoothness to the dressing.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Introduces a touch of natural sweetness to balance the citrus.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and deepens the contrast between sweet and tangy.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): Add a little kick if you like your salad with some spicy personality.
How to Make Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mango
Start with those perfectly ripe mangoes—firm but tender. Slice off the cheeks, score the flesh into a grid pattern, and scoop out the cubes. This juicy golden fruit sets the tone for the salad’s sweet component, so take your time choosing mangoes that feel sun-kissed and just right.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Thinly slicing the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion is where much of the salad’s texture shines through. I love using a mandoline to get even, delicate slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. These crisp, colorful veggies create that delightful contrast to the soft mango.
Step 3: Make the Lime Dressing
Whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, and honey or maple syrup in a small bowl or jar. This dressing is the heart of the recipe, blending tang and sweetness beautifully. Add a pinch of salt to bring all the flavors into harmony. Feeling adventurous? Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle but exciting heat.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Combine mango chunks, sliced vegetables, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl. Pour the lime dressing over everything and toss gently so every bite is coated in that zesty, sweet sauce. Watching the mix of bright yellows, greens, and reds come together is almost as satisfying as tasting it.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the flavors to meld and the dressing to fully infuse the ingredients, keep the salad in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This step transforms the dish from lovely to unforgettable, allowing the lime dressing to mingle with every bite.
How to Serve Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates the Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe even more. Try sprinkling extra chopped cilantro, a few more red pepper flakes for a fiery touch, or even a handful of toasted seeds or nuts for a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the mango.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with light, summery dishes like grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even a simple bowl of coconut rice. Its freshness and acidity cut through heavier flavors, making it a perfect companion to barbecues or casual weeknight dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve this salad in small Mason jars layered with lime wedges and a few extra herbs on top. Or plate it on a large colorful platter and garnish with edible flowers for a party-ready look that’s as inviting visually as it is on the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh ingredients and lime dressing, it’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness and to prevent the mango from becoming too mushy.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing since fresh mango and the crisp vegetables will lose their texture when thawed. Instead, aim to enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this salad as it’s designed to be served cold or at room temperature. The bright flavors and crisp textures are all part of the charm enjoyed best fresh.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh cilantro?
Fresh cilantro really makes the salad pop with its brightness, but if you don’t have any, a mild herb like fresh parsley could be a substitute. Dried herbs are not recommended as they lack the fresh flavor and crispness.
What kind of mango works best for this salad?
Look for mangoes that are ripe yet firm. Varieties like Ataulfo or Haden have the sweetness and texture that work well, giving juicy cubes without turning mushy when sliced.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey to keep the dressing vegan-friendly without sacrificing sweetness.
Can I add protein to this mango salad?
Yes! Grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or toasted chickpeas are great additions to turn this refreshing salad into a filling meal.
How spicy is the salad if I add crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than overwhelming heat. You can always adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe is one of those rare dishes that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat. It celebrates fresh, natural flavors in a way that feels like a little burst of sunshine. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, I promise this vibrant salad will find a happy place on your table and in your heart. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite summer staple.
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Mango Salad with Lime Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2–4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Mango Salad with Lime Dressing that combines juicy ripe mangoes, crisp cucumber, sweet red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing with a hint of honey and optional heat from crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect as a light snack or a tropical side dish that brings sunshine to your table.
Ingredients
Fruits and Vegetables
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango: Start with ripe, slightly soft mangoes. Slice off the cheeks, score the flesh in a grid pattern, and scoop out the cubes. The mango should be juicy but not mushy—resembling a golden sunset in fruit form.
- Chop the Veggies: Thinly slice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Using a mandoline ensures even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well for uniform thickness.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust seasoning—the dressing should be tangy with a subtle sweetness. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
- Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mango chunks, sliced vegetables, and chopped cilantro. Pour the lime dressing over the ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly. The vibrant colors make it look like confetti in a bowl.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time allows the dressing to meld with the fresh ingredients, enhancing the overall taste before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm mangoes to avoid a mushy texture in the salad.
- The salad can be prepared ahead, but adding the dressing just before serving preserves the freshness.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes cautiously to control heat level.
- This salad pairs well with grilled seafood or chicken for a complete meal.
