This Fresh Avocado Mango Salad is a bright and tasty dish perfect for sunny days. With creamy avocado and sweet mango, it’s a flavor party in every bite!
Adding a squeeze of lime takes it to the next level. I love serving it as a refreshing side at picnics or just as a light snack. Who says salads can’t be fun? 🥑🥭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Look for ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed. If they’re hard, you can let them sit at room temperature a few days. If you’re sensitive to fats, you might try substituting with diced cucumbers for a lighter salad.
Mangoes: The best mangoes for this salad are sweet and juicy varieties like Honey or Ataulfo. If mangoes aren’t in season, try using nectarines or peaches for a similar sweetness.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness. If you’re sensitive to raw onions, rinse chopped onion under cold water for a milder taste. Green onions can also be a good substitute.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley or mint can offer a different flavor that still complements the salad very well.
How Do I Prevent Avocados from Browning?
To keep your avocado vibrant green, limit air exposure. Here’s how:
- Use only ripe avocados so they don’t need to sit out too long.
- Drizzle lime juice on cut avocados—this adds flavor and helps slow oxidation.
- Toss the salad just before serving. If you’re making it ahead, store avocados separately and combine them later.
Fresh Avocado Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy dish perfect for any meal. If you want the flavors to develop, you can chill it for another 10-15 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by washing and dicing all your ingredients. Peel and chop the ripe avocados and mangoes into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion and dice the red bell pepper. This will give your salad a vibrant look and a mix of textures!
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, mangoes, red onion, and red bell pepper. Be careful while mixing to keep the avocado pieces intact. You want this salad to look colorful and fresh!
3. Add Fresh Herbs and Seeds:
Next, toss in the fresh cilantro leaves. This adds a wonderful burst of flavor. Then sprinkle the black and white sesame seeds over the top. They give the salad a nice nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the fruit.
4. Dress It Up:
Drizzle the olive oil and squeeze the juice of one lime over the salad. This dressing will brighten flavors and add a lovely tang. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy – the seasoning really enhances the dish!
5. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all the ingredients together one last time, making sure everything is well-coated with the dressing but not mashing the avocados. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
This Fresh Avocado Mango Salad combines creamy avocado with sweet juicy mango, brightened by lime and fresh cilantro, while the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light, healthy snack! Enjoy!
FAQ for Fresh Avocado Mango Salad
Can I Use Frozen Mango or Avocado?
While fresh ingredients are best for this salad, you can use frozen mango if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water. Frozen avocado can be mushy and may not hold up well in salads, so it’s best to stick with fresh avocados.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan! The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a delightful option for anyone following a vegan diet. Enjoy it guilt-free!
What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh parsley or mint as a substitute. Both provide fresh flavors that complement the other ingredients well.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
To maintain freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still be tasty. You can add a touch more lime juice before eating to refresh it!
