Mango Avocado Salad

This Mango Avocado Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply looking for a refreshing side dish, this salad offers sweet mangoes, creamy avocados, and fresh herbs. It’s quick to prepare and bursts with vibrant colors, making it an eye-catching addition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad is ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of mango and avocado creates a sweet and creamy dish that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or a light main course, it’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or healthy meal prep.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to throw in other ingredients like cucumbers or peppers for extra crunch!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mango Avocado Salad, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help you prepare this dish quickly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Mason jar or small bowl (for vinaigrette)
• Whisk or jar shaker

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A good knife makes slicing fruits and vegetables easier and safer.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing the salad ingredients together without making a mess.
• Mason jar or small bowl: Perfect for mixing vinaigrette effortlessly.

Ingredients

This fresh mango avocado salad is packed with sweet, creamy, and citrusy flavors—ready in 15 minutes for the ultimate summer dish.

For the Salad

• 2 avocados (medium ripe, diced into ½-inch cubes)
• 1 mango (medium ripe, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes)
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ cup fresh basil (chiffonade / thinly sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Mango Avocado Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Red Onion

Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water for 10 minutes. This will reduce its sharpness. After soaking, drain the onion slices.

Step 2: Cut the Mango

Stand the mango upright on your cutting board. Slice off both sides of the mango while avoiding the pit. Peel off the skin before dicing the flesh into ½-inch cubes. Be sure to scrape any remaining flesh from the pit and chop it as well.

Step 3: Halve Cherry Tomatoes

Halve each cherry tomato by cutting them through their middle. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Chiffonade the Basil

Stack the basil leaves on top of each other. Roll them up tightly and slice them into thin ribbons known as chiffonade.

Step 5: Dice the Avocados

Halve each avocado carefully and remove the pit. Dice them just before assembling to prevent browning.

Step 6: Make the Vinaigrette

In a mason jar or small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk until well emulsified. Taste test and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together avocado, mango, red onion, basil, and tomatoes. Drizzle the vinaigrette over everything and toss lightly to coat.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately for freshness or chill briefly (up to 30 minutes) before serving to enhance flavors. Enjoy this vibrant Mango Avocado Salad!

How to Serve Mango Avocado Salad

This fresh mango avocado salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or as a side, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair with whole grain crackers for a satisfying and healthy lunch option.
• Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added crunch and freshness.

Accompanied by Grilled Chicken

• Top grilled chicken breast with the salad to add a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Use the salad as a refreshing side to complement the savory taste of grilled meats.

In Tacos

• Use the mango avocado salad as a filling for soft corn tortillas. The sweet and tangy flavors will elevate your taco night.
• Add shredded lettuce and beans for extra texture and nutrition.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the salad in small cups or bowls as a starter at gatherings. Guests can enjoy it with tortilla chips for dipping.
• Garnish with additional basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.

How to Perfect Mango Avocado Salad

To create the best mango avocado salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose ripe fruits: Ensure your avocados and mangoes are perfectly ripe for optimal creaminess and sweetness.
• Add acidity: A splash of extra lemon juice can brighten the flavors while preventing browning in avocados.
• Keep it fresh: Assemble your salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
• Mix up textures: Incorporate nuts or seeds for added crunch that contrasts with the creamy avocado.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or acidity to suit your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Mango Avocado Salad

Complement your mango avocado salad with these tasty side dishes that pair beautifully together. They add variety and balance to any meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables on the grill, drizzled with olive oil, for smoky flavor that enhances the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Serve fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs alongside the salad for a nutritious boost.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the tropical flavors of the salad.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs adds texture and complements the freshness of the main dish.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad seasoned with lemon makes an excellent accompaniment.
6. Baked Tortilla Chips: Homemade baked tortilla chips provide a crunchy side that’s perfect for scooping up the mango avocado goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Mango Avocado Salad, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes many make and tips on how to steer clear of them.

• Boldly skip the soaking step: Not soaking the red onion can lead to overpowering flavors. Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness.

• Boldly delaying avocado dicing: Cutting avocados too early can cause them to brown. Dice them just before assembling your salad for the best appearance and taste.

• Boldly ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste your vinaigrette before adding it can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

• Boldly overcrowding the bowl: Adding too many ingredients at once can make mixing difficult. Toss ingredients gently in small batches for an even distribution.

• Boldly skipping the chill time: Serving immediately without allowing a brief chill can miss out on flavor development. Chill for up to 30 minutes for enhanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).

Freezing Mango Avocado Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes.
• If necessary, freeze mango separately, as it freezes well.

Reheating Mango Avocado Salad

• Oven: Not recommended due to salad ingredients.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; serves best cold.
• Stovetop: Not suitable; enjoy fresh instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mango Avocado Salad that might help you in your preparation.

Can I prepare Mango Avocado Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add avocados just before serving to prevent browning.

What can I substitute for cherry tomatoes?

If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even bell peppers for added crunch.

How do I store leftover Mango Avocado Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for the best quality.

Can I customize this Mango Avocado Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or even nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Mango Avocado Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. With its sweet, creamy, and citrusy flavors, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or vegetables!