I don’t know about you, but I’m a firm believer that salads can be just as exciting as any main dish – especially when they feature flavor-packed ingredients like avocado and mango! This Simple Avocado Mango Salad is one of my go-to recipes for sunshine on a plate. It’s fresh, vibrant, and so easy to whip up that it feels like a treat when I make it.
I remember the first time I made this salad. I was having friends over for a summer dinner party, and I wanted to impress them without spending the whole day in the kitchen. As soon as I tossed those creamy, rich avocados with the sweet and juicy mango, I knew I had struck gold. The colors alone are enough to make your heart sing, and the best part? It’s super healthy, too! You’ll always find a reason to make this salad, whether it’s a hot day or just because you need a quick fix of goodness!
What’s in Simple Avocado Mango Salad?
Avocado: The star of the show! Creamy, nutritious, and oh-so-delicious, avocados are packed with healthy fats which are great for your heart. I always go for ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure—this is key!
Mango: Sweet, succulent, and vibrant, mango adds a tropical twist to this salad. I like to use fresh mango whenever possible, but frozen works too; just make sure you thaw it out first!
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and a kick of flavor. Just a bit of finely chopped red onion brings out the sweetness of the mango without overpowering it.
Fresh Cilantro: If you love it, you’ll adore it here! Cilantro gives the salad a fresh burst of zest that perfectly complements the creamy and sweet ingredients.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice not only brightens the flavors but also keeps the avocado from browning too quickly. I like to use freshly squeezed lime for the best results.
Is Simple Avocado Mango Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a powerhouse of nutrients:
Avocado: Loaded with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, avocados promote a healthy heart and contribute to satiety.
Mango: This tropical fruit is bursting with vitamins, especially vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and it’s also rich in antioxidants.
Cilantro: This herb is high in vitamins A, C, and K, and may aid in digestion.
However, do keep in mind that while avocados are nutritious, they’re also calorie-dense, so moderation is key if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados (serves 4)
– 1 large ripe mango
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Simple Avocado Mango Salad?
1. Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Try to keep the pieces chunked rather than mashed.
2. Next, peel and dice the mango, adding it to the bowl with the avocado.
3. Add the finely chopped red onion and fresh cilantro to the bowl.
4. Drizzle the juice of one lime over the mixture.
5. Toss everything gently together, being careful not to mash the avocado until just combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final gentle toss.
7. Serve immediately, or chill for about 10 minutes if you prefer it a bit colder.
A Splash of Flavor: Tips and Variations
– If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a wonderful substitute!
– You can add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition or black beans for some extra protein.
– Consider serving it on a bed of greens like arugula or spinach if you want to make it a more substantial meal.
I’m sure you’ll love this Simple Avocado Mango Salad just as much as I do! It’s a perfect side dish for grilled meat, a quick lunch, or even a light dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it—whatever occasion you make it for, just know it’ll be a hit! Let me know how it turns out for you!
