Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

This Mango Salad with Lime Dressing is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it the perfect addition to any gathering. With juicy mangoes and creamy avocado, this refreshing salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant colors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick healthy meal, this dish will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

Mango Salad with Lime Dressing is a standout dish for several reasons:

• Easy to Prepare: This salad requires minimal effort and can be put together in just 15 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet mangoes and zesty lime dressing creates a delicious contrast.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect as a side dish at potlucks or a light main course for lunch.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and veggies, it’s nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mango Salad with Lime Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients until smooth and well-mixed.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when chopping fruits and vegetables, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to create this flavorful Mango Salad with Lime Dressing:

Sweet Chilli Lime Dressing

• 3 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp freshly grated ginger
• Sea salt flakes, to taste
• Cracked black pepper, to taste

Salad

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
• ½ small red onion, finely sliced
• 1 small cucumber, halved lengthways, then sliced (I don’t peel it)
• 1 cup (30 g) coriander (cilantro) leaves, roughly chopped
• ¼ cup (40 g) crushed peanuts

How to Make Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the sweet chilli sauce, lime juice, olive oil, honey, and ginger until well combined.
2. Season with sea salt flakes and cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a shallow serving bowl:
1. Layer the following ingredients in order:
– mango
– cucumber
– avocado
– red onion
– coriander

Step 3: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the prepared sweet chilli lime dressing over the layered salad.
2. Sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
3. Toss gently just before serving to combine flavors while keeping the presentation intact.

How to Serve Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

Mango Salad with Lime Dressing is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to make it a standout dish at any meal or gathering.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it chilled as a refreshing main dish during summer. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will be a hit at barbecue parties.

As a Side Salad

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango salad complement savory proteins beautifully.

With Tortilla Chips

• Use it as a topping for crispy tortilla chips. This creates a delightful fusion of textures and makes for an exciting appetizer.

For Meal Prep

• Store portions in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week. This salad remains fresh and tasty, making healthy eating easy.

At Potlucks

• Present it in a large bowl for sharing. Its colorful appearance will attract attention, and its flavors will please a crowd.

How to Perfect Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

To make your Mango Salad with Lime Dressing even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe mangoes: Choose mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Add variety: Incorporate other fruits like pineapple or kiwi for an extra tropical twist.
• Adjust dressing: Taste your lime dressing before serving; feel free to add more lime juice or chili sauce based on your preference.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Garnish creatively: Top with fresh herbs or edible flowers for added flair and presentation.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the components separately and assemble right before serving to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

Mango Salad with Lime Dressing pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These offer a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the mango salad perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish adds protein and makes your meal heartier while remaining light.
3. Coconut Rice: The creamy texture of coconut rice pairs well, adding richness that balances the salad’s acidity.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide a savory contrast to the sweet salad, making every bite exciting.
5. Thai Spring Rolls: These fresh rolls filled with vegetables and herbs enhance the Asian flavors present in the mango salad.
6. Baked Tofu: Marinated baked tofu adds protein and absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent accompaniment.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings out natural sweetness and complements the tropical notes in your salad.
8. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad offers additional texture while keeping everything light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Mango Salad with Lime Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using unripe mangoes: Make sure to choose ripe mangoes for sweetness and flavor. Unripe mangoes can be too tart and firm.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dressing! A pinch of sea salt and cracked black pepper enhances all the flavors.
• Cutting vegetables too large: Ensure that all ingredients are diced or sliced uniformly. This allows for even mixing and better presentation.
• Making the salad too early: Prepare the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. The avocado can brown if left too long.
• Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. You want the flavors balanced without overwhelming the fresh ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instructions

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the avocado and mango texture changes upon thawing.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Not applicable for salads; serve fresh.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave as it will wilt the salad.
• Stovetop: Not suitable; enjoy this dish cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mango Salad with Lime Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance, but assemble the salad shortly before serving to maintain freshness.

What other ingredients can I add to my Mango Salad?

You might consider adding bell peppers, tomatoes, or even black beans for added texture and flavor.

Is Mango Salad with Lime Dressing gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.

How do I keep my avocado from browning in the salad?

To minimize browning, add lime juice directly onto the avocado before mixing it into the salad.

Final Thoughts

This Mango Salad with Lime Dressing is vibrant, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or light meal, and you can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients! Give it a try at your next gathering!