This refreshing Thai mango salad is a wonderful mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Juicy mangoes, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing come together for a tasty treat!
Chatting with friends over this salad feels special. I love how quick it is to whip up. Just chop, toss, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to eat more fruit. 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Ripe mangoes are key for their sweetness. Look for mangoes that give a little when you press them. If mangoes are out of season, try using ripe peaches or nectarines as alternatives.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add color and crunch. You could use pre-packaged coleslaw mix if you’re short on time. For a colorful twist, consider using purple carrots.
Cucumber: A crisp cucumber balances the sweetness. If you’re avoiding cucumbers, zucchini works well too! Spiralized zucchini adds a fun visual twist.
Cashews: Raw cashews provide a lovely crunch. If you’re not a fan, try sunflower seeds or toasted peanuts for a different yet satisfying texture.
Fish Sauce: It adds umami flavor. If you want to keep it vegetarian, soy sauce or coconut aminos are perfect substitutes.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crisp and Fresh?
To keep your Thai mango salad refreshing, follow these tips:
- Use cold ingredients; chill your mangoes and cucumbers beforehand.
- Dress the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Avoid using overly ripe mangoes, as they can become mushy.
- If making ahead, store the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving.
By following these simple steps, your salad will maintain its great taste and satisfying crunch!
Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 small cucumber, julienned or spiralized
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup raw cashews
- 1 small jalapeño or Thai red chili, finely sliced (adjust to spice preference)
For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian)
- 1 tablespoon honey or palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is super quick to make! You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and mixing the dressing. Overall, have it ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a fresh and tasty side or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced mangoes, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely sliced chili, and fresh cilantro leaves. Make sure everything is nicely mixed for an even flavor!
2. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), honey (or palm sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, and red chili flakes (if using). Whisk until everything is well blended to create a zesty dressing.
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together using tongs or a large spoon until all the ingredients are coated in that vibrant dressing.
4. Add Some Crunch:
Sprinkle raw cashews on top of the salad for a delicious crunch. Feel free to add an extra sprinkle of cilantro if you’re a cilantro lover!
5. Serve Immediately:
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately. It makes a fantastic side dish or can stand alone as a light meal. Enjoy this tasty blend of sweet mango, spicy chili, and tangy lime!
You’re all set to dig into this delicious and colorful Thai mango salad. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Fruit?
Absolutely! While mangoes are the star of this salad, you can also try using ripe peaches, pineapples, or even papaya for a different fruity twist. Just make sure your fruit is sweet and juicy!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess. Store chopped ingredients in an airtight container in the fridge.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, simply omit the jalapeño or Thai chili. Alternatively, you can use a small pinch of cayenne pepper or a milder chili type to suit your taste. Also, reduce the amount of red chili flakes in the dressing to control the heat!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 2 days, but the salad may become a bit watery as the ingredients sit. Be sure to give it a toss before enjoying it again!
