Mango Salad

Indulge in the tropical delight of mango salad, a dish that beautifully marries sweet mangoes with crisp greens and a tangy dressing. This refreshing salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy option that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. Perfect for hot days, it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for any meal. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately 200 calories, 10g fat, 25g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 5g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Begin by washing all the produce thoroughly.
2. Peel the mangoes and slice them into thin wedges.
3. Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
4. Add the sliced mangoes on top of the greens.
5. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and red onion, then add them to the bowl.
6. Sprinkle fresh cilantro and feta cheese over the salad.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
8. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
9. Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients.
10. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to switch things up, consider using avocado instead of feta for a creamier texture, or substitute lime juice with lemon juice. You can also add other fruits like pineapple or berries for a different flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

This mango salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. It can also be served alongside barbecued dishes or as a light appetizer at gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Mango salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the mango and greens may change. If refrigerated, add dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using unripe mangoes can lead to a less sweet salad.
• Overdressing can make the salad soggy; use just enough.
• Not washing greens properly can introduce grit.
• Cutting ingredients too large may affect the texture.
• Forgetting to season can make the salad bland.

Helpful Tips

• Choose ripe, fragrant mangoes for the best flavor.
• Experiment with different greens to find your favorite mix.
• Chill the salad bowl before serving for a refreshing touch.
• Consider adding nuts for crunch and additional nutrition.
• Customize the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

FAQs

Can I make mango salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Combine everything and add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for mixed greens?

You can use any leafy greens such as kale, romaine, or even cabbage for a different texture and flavor.

Is mango salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to make it vegan-friendly.

How can I make it spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are excellent protein additions for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Mango salad is not just visually stunning; it’s also a refreshing, healthy dish that can brighten up any meal. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s the perfect choice for warm weather dining or as a side for your favorite grilled dishes. Enjoy the burst of tropical goodness!

Mango Salad

A refreshing and nutritious mango salad combining sweet mangoes, mixed greens, and a tangy dressing, perfect for warm days.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Tropical

Keyword: mango salad, healthy salad, tropical salad, summer salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 200kcal

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes peeled and sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens arugula, spinach, or lettuce
• 1/2 red bell pepper thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon honey optional

Instructions

• Wash all produce thoroughly.
• Peel the mangoes and slice them into thin wedges.
• Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
• Add the sliced mangoes on top of the greens.
• Thinly slice the red bell pepper and red onion, then add them to the bowl.
• Sprinkle fresh cilantro and feta cheese over the salad.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
• Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients.
• Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 5g