This refreshing avocado mango salad is a bright dish perfect for summer! It combines creamy avocado with sweet, ripe mango, all tossed with a zesty lime dressing.
It’s like a tropical vacation in a bowl! I love to serve it as a side dish at barbecues or just to enjoy on a hot day while daydreaming in the sun. 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Use ripe mangoes for the best sweetness. If you can’t find mangoes, peaches or nectarines are great alternatives. They add sweetness and juiciness, perfect for summer.
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados; they should give slightly when pressed. If you’re short on avocados, try using diced cucumbers for a fresh crunch, or even ripe peaches for added sweetness.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice crunch and color. If it’s too sharp for your taste, you could swap in sweet onion or green onions for a milder flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use parsley or omit it if needed.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for brightness. Bottled juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
How Do I Properly Dice My Ingredients?
Getting the right dice on your ingredients helps with both presentation and even mixing. Here’s how to do it:
- For mangoes, slice the fruit lengthwise along the pit, then score the flesh into cubes before scooping them out with a spoon.
- For avocados, cut it in half, remove the pit, and use a knife to make cross-hatch cuts before scooping the cubes into your bowl.
- Make sure your red onion is finely chopped for a milder taste, as larger pieces can be overwhelming. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts.
Taking your time with the dicing ensures a well-blended salad that looks great on the plate!
Easy Avocado Mango Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of chili powder or cayenne for a bit of spice
Time Estimate:
This quick and easy salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish for dinner!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruits:
In a large bowl, gently combine the diced mangoes and avocados. Be careful while mixing to avoid mashing the avocado; you want those lovely cubes to hold their shape!
2. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Add the finely chopped red onion and fresh cilantro leaves to the bowl. These ingredients add flavor and a pop of color to your salad.
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of one lime, olive oil, salt, pepper, and the optional pinch of chili powder or cayenne if you like a little heat.
4. Combine and Toss:
Drizzle the lime dressing over the mango and avocado mixture. Use a gentle folding motion to toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor, or you can chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a side dish or a light main course!
This salad is not only colorful but also bursting with fresh summer flavors. It’s simple to whip up and sure to impress your guests or family!
FAQ for Easy Avocado Mango Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute mangoes with other fruits like peaches, nectarines, or even diced pineapples for a tropical twist. Just ensure the fruits are ripe and sweet for the best flavor!
How Do I Keep Avocados from Browning?
To minimize browning, you can squeeze a bit of extra lime juice over the avocado before mixing it into the salad. If you’re preparing the salad in advance, keep the avocado separate until ready to serve.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mango and avocado ahead, but it’s best to mix the dressing and add the avocado close to serving time to keep everything fresh and vibrant. If it’s made in advance, eat it within a few hours for the best texture and flavor.
What Should I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great light meal. It’s also fantastic as a side dish at barbecues or picnics, alongside tacos or roasted meats!
