This Easy Avocado Mango Salad is a burst of flavors! It’s made with creamy avocados and sweet mangoes, all tossed together for a fresh and colorful dish.
This salad is perfect for warm days and makes a great side! I like to add a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick. Trust me, every bite is like a little party in your mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Ripe mangoes bring sweetness to the salad. If mangoes aren’t in season, you could swap them for peaches or nectarines for a similar flavor and texture.
Avocados: Ripe avocados are creamy and essential. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try diced cucumbers, but keep in mind that you’ll miss the creaminess.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice bite. You could use green onions for a milder flavor, or even a bit of diced shallot if you prefer.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley works nicely as a substitute, providing a fresh taste without the strong flavor of cilantro.
How Can I Make Sure My Avocados Are Just Right?
Choosing ripe avocados can be tricky! To check ripeness, gently press the avocado; it should yield slightly under your fingers but not feel mushy. If they’re still firm, leave them at room temperature for a few days. You can also speed up the ripening by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana, which releases ethylene gas.
When cutting into an avocado, look for a vibrant green flesh inside. If it’s brown, it’s still fine for the salad, but it will affect the appearance. Remember to serve the salad immediately, as cut avocado tends to brown quickly. Add a little lime juice to help slow down this process!
Easy Avocado Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is incredibly quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation. Just chop up your ingredients, toss them together, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, gently combine the diced mangoes, avocados, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro leaves. Make sure to handle the avocados carefully so they don’t get mushy!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chili powder (if you like a little heat), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix it well until it’s nicely blended.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. It’s time to add some flavor!
4. Toss Gently:
Toss the salad gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado as you mix!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. If you think it needs more seasoning, go ahead and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light meal. Enjoy the fresh, sweet, creamy, and zesty flavors in every bite!
This salad is not only delicious but also colorful and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Can I Substitute Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If mangoes aren’t available, you can try using diced peaches, nectarines, or even pineapple for a different twist. Each fruit will bring its unique flavor to the salad!
How Can I Keep Avocados from Browning?
To prevent your avocado slices from browning too quickly, toss them in lime or lemon juice right after dicing. This will slow down oxidation and keep them looking fresh longer!
Is It Possible to Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies in advance. Just store the ingredients separately in the fridge and combine them right before serving for the best texture.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the avocados may brown, but you can still enjoy the salad; just give it a gentle toss before eating!
