Mango salad is not just a dish; it’s an explosion of tropical sunshine in your mouth. Imagine biting into juicy, sweet mangoes that dance with the crunch of fresh veggies while a zesty dressing teases your taste buds. Honey Sweet Potato Salad pairing It’s like a beach party for your palate, and who wouldn’t want to join that fiesta?
Every time I whip up this mango salad, I am transported back to summer picnics with friends, where laughter mingled with the aroma of fresh produce. Picture us sitting under swaying palm trees, competing over who can make the best salad. Grilled Zucchini Wraps with Goat Cheese Spoiler alert: it was always me! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will transport you straight to paradise. Honey Peach Grilled Cheese.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This mango salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings
- The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors are sure to impress anyone at your table
- Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it as a side dish or toss in proteins for a complete meal
- Enjoy the delightful fusion of sweet and savory in every bite!
I once made this salad for a family barbecue, and my cousin nearly fell off her chair after tasting it.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Ripe Mangoes: Choose mangoes that yield slightly to pressure; they should be fragrant and perfectly sweet.
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Crisp Cucumbers: Opt for English cucumbers for their thin skin and minimal seeds; they add a refreshing crunch. For more inspiration, check out this refreshing salad recipe recipe.
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Red Bell Peppers: These add sweetness and color; pick ones that feel firm and heavy for their size.
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Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a milder flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the mango.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the salad’s flavor with its herbaceous notes; use only fresh leaves for the best taste.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds acidity and brightness; avoid bottled versions for optimal flavor.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust these to your taste preferences.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil rounds out the flavors; choose extra virgin for its rich taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing your ingredients: Gather all your colorful vegetables and fruits on a clean cutting board. Rinse everything thoroughly under cool water.
Chop the Mangoes: Peel the ripe mangoes using a vegetable peeler. Cut them into bite-sized cubes, ensuring you extract all that juicy goodness.
Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red bell peppers. Chop the red onion finely before throwing them into a mixing bowl along with chopped cilantro.
Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine all chopped ingredients gently. Be careful not to mush those precious mango cubes as you mix!
Add Dressing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture along with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss again until everything is evenly coated in zesty goodness.
Let it Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes helps all the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.
Enjoy this vibrant mango salad as a side dish or savor it solo; either way, it’s bound to become your new favorite! For more inspiration, check out this colorful salad options recipe.
You Must Know
- Mango salad is not just a dish; it’s a tropical party for your taste buds
- This vibrant, refreshing salad can brighten up any meal or stand alone as a healthy snack
- Its sweet and tangy flavor combination is simply irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping all your ingredients before mixing them together. Chop the mango, onion, and cilantro, then drizzle on the dressing to meld flavors perfectly.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap mango for pineapple or add avocado for creaminess. You can also experiment with spices like chili flakes for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mango salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating to preserve freshness and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your mango salad, ensure that your mangoes are ripe but firm
- Consider adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal
- Fresh herbs elevate flavor; don’t skip the cilantro!
Sometimes I serve this mango salad at family gatherings, and the compliments never stop coming! It’s always a hit, especially during summer barbecues when everyone needs a refreshing side.

FAQ
What is the best type of mango for this salad?
Choose ripe, sweet mangoes like Haden or Ataulfo for flavor and texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
How can I add protein to my mango salad?
Grill chicken or shrimp and toss them in just before serving for a delicious addition. Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus.
Mango Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mango salad is a refreshing burst of tropical flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal. With juicy mangoes, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing, this vibrant dish will brighten any table. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite proteins, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh produce while impressing your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 cup English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on a clean cutting board and rinse well.
- Dice the mangoes into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Thinly slice the cucumber and red bell pepper; finely chop the red onion and add them to the bowl.
- Toss in the chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined. Allow to marinate for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg




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