This vibrant twist on salad brings together creamy avocado and sweet mango, making a tasty treat for your taste buds! It’s fresh, colorful, and so easy to prepare.
I love how this salad is perfect for summer picnics. Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress your friends—or just treat yourself! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Ripe avocados give a creamy texture and rich flavor. If you can’t find them, try using a ripe pear, though the texture will differ.
Mangoes: Sweet and juicy mangoes are essential. If they’re out of season, try using canned mango or diced peaches for a similar sweetness.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers for their crispness. You could replace them with zucchinis for a similar crunch or skip them entirely if you’re not a fan.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a sweet crunch to the salad. If you want less sweetness, green bell peppers are a fine substitute.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a fresh taste. If you dislike cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can work instead, changing the flavor a bit but still delicious!
How Can I Prevent My Avocados from Mashing in the Salad?
To keep your avocados intact, handle them gently! Start by dicing them last and fold them in softly with the other ingredients. This way, you’ll mix them without over-mushing.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Combine firmer veggies first, then add the avocados and toss gently.
- Keep the salad chilled before serving to retain the veggies’ structure.
Delicious Avocado Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (black or white, or a mix)
For the Dressing:
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional chill time of 15-20 minutes in the fridge. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a light meal or a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the diced avocados, diced mangoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Give them a gentle toss to mix them up nicely.
2. Add the Fresh Herbs and Seeds:
Next, sprinkle the chopped cilantro and sesame seeds into the bowl with the salad. This will add a wonderful flavor and crunch!
3. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, squeeze in the lime juice and add the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This dressing will really bring the salad to life!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocados; you just want to coat all the ingredients in that zesty dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad right away or cover it and chill it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. Enjoy your delicious and colorful Avocado Mango Salad!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Mango?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mango, consider using pineapple or papaya for a tropical twist. Just make sure to use ripe fruits for the best flavor and texture.
How Can I Keep Avocados from Browning?
To prevent your avocados from browning, try adding a little extra lime juice to the salad before serving. The acidity helps slow down the oxidation process. Alternatively, you can store any leftover salad in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap pressed against the surface of the salad to minimize air exposure.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the salad ingredients separately and combine them just before serving. If you want to prep ahead, chop the veggies and store them in the fridge. Just wait to add the avocado and dressing until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
What Should I Serve with Avocado Mango Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It’s also a fantastic side dish for tacos or as a topping for burrito bowls. Enjoy it with your favorite protein for a complete meal!
