This easy Thai Mango Salad is a burst of fresh flavors with ripe mango, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for warm summer days when you need something light and refreshing!
Every time I make this salad, I feel like a chef in a fancy restaurant. It’s that easy! Plus, the colors are so bright, it almost looks like summer on a plate. You won’t regret making this!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Ripe mangoes add natural sweetness and a tropical flavor. If mangoes are out of season, try using papaya or even ripe peaches for a similar texture and sweetness.
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers give sweetness and color. You can substitute with yellow or orange peppers for a different hue, or use cucumbers for a crunchier texture.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and mint bring freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works well, and basil can replace mint for a unique twist.
Fish Sauce: This adds a savory depth to the dressing. For a vegetarian option, use soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.
Sugar: Palm sugar is traditional but can be swapped for brown sugar or honey if needed. Just adjust the amount to taste depending on your preference for sweetness.
How Do You Prepare a Mango for This Salad?
Getting the perfect mango pieces is important for texture. Here’s a simple way to julienne a mango:
- Start by peeling the mango with a vegetable peeler.
- Stand the mango upright and slice downwards on either side of the pit, creating two large sections.
- Take each section and cut into thin strips (julienne) to mix into your salad.
- Use the remaining flesh around the pit for snacking or to add to smoothies!
Remember, the riper the mango, the easier it will be to cut and the sweeter your salad will taste!
Easy Thai Mango Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped
- 1-2 small green chilies, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping and mixing the ingredients, and there’s no cooking required! Just toss everything together for a delicious summer dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mangoes:
Start by peeling the mangoes. After peeling, cut them into thin strips known as julienne. Place the mango strips into a large mixing bowl. This will be the star of your salad!
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, thinly slice the red bell pepper and red onion. Chop the green onions, cilantro, and mint leaves. Once done, add all the chopped ingredients to the bowl with the mango. You’re creating a colorful mix!
3. Spice It Up (Optional):
If you like a little heat, thinly slice the small green chilies and add them to the bowl. Adjust the number based on your spice preference!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, soy sauce (if using), and minced garlic until the sugar is fully dissolved. This dressing will add zest to your salad!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your mango mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure the mango and veggies are well-coated with the dressing for optimal flavor.
6. Serve with Crunch:
Transfer the salad to a serving plate and sprinkle the coarsely chopped roasted peanuts on top for a delightful crunch.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you want to make it even prettier, garnish with additional cilantro and mint leaves. Serve immediately for a fresh and refreshing salad!
This salad is vibrant, tangy, and crunchy — perfect for hot days when you want something fresh and easy to make!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Thai Mango Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If mangoes are not available, you can substitute them with ripe papaya, peaches, or even pineapple. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor and texture, making for a delicious variation!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients (mango, veggies, and herbs) a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the salad stays fresh and crunchy.
What Can I Use Instead of Fish Sauce?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative. Coconut aminos are also a great substitution offering a similar umami flavor without the fish sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the veggies may become a bit softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh if possible!
