Oh my goodness, let me just tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish for those warm summer days: the Simple Avocado Mango Salad! I love this salad because it’s like a tropical getaway on a plate, and it’s so easy to whip up. There’s something so refreshing about combining creamy avocado with the sweet and vibrant mangoes. I remember the first time I made this salad for a backyard barbecue; it was a hit! Even my friends who declared they were “not salad people” couldn’t resist going back for seconds.
What I adore the most about this recipe is its versatility. It works beautifully as a light appetizer, a side dish for grilled meats, or even as a healthy main course. Plus, those luscious colors just brighten up the table! So if you’re looking to impress your guests or just want to treat yourself to something delicious, this salad is the way to go.
What’s in Simple Avocado Mango Salad?
Avocados: Creamy and rich, avocados are the star of this salad. Not only do they add a delightful texture, but they’re also packed with healthy fats that are great for your heart. I usually pick ripe avocados from the store; just give them a gentle squeeze to check for softness!
Mangoes: Juicy and sweet, mangoes bring a tropical flair. I prefer using fresh, ripe mangoes, but frozen mango chunks can work in a pinch if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure they’re thawed first!
Red Onion: For a zing of flavor and a pop of color, I love adding finely chopped red onion. It adds a nice bite, and if you find it too strong, soaking it in cold water for a bit can mellow that flavor.
Fresh Cilantro: A fistful of fresh cilantro brings that herby freshness to the salad. I know some people have a love-hate relationship with cilantro, so feel free to skip it if you’re not a fan!
Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime juice ties all the flavors together, adding that much-needed acidity and brightness. Fresh lime is always best, but bottled juice can save the day if you’re out of the fresh stuff.
Is Simple Avocado Mango Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is not only delicious but also super nutritious.
Avocados are high in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote heart health. They are also rich in fiber and potassium.
Mangoes are loaded with vitamins A and C, making them an excellent nutrient boost. Plus, the natural sugars in mangoes can satisfy a sweet craving without resorting to processed sweets.
That said, keep in mind that avocados and mangoes can be calorie-dense, so moderation is key if you’re watching your calorie intake. But trust me, a serving of this salad is worth every bite!
Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or a lovely lunch for yourself!
How to Make Simple Avocado Mango Salad?
1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Dice the avocados and mangoes into bite-sized pieces. I like to do this right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
2. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, mango, and red onion. If you’re adding cilantro, toss that in as well.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the top of the salad. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the avocado from browning. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the avocado – we want those lovely chunks!
5. Serve immediately, or chill it in the fridge for about 10 minutes if you want it extra refreshing.
Serving Suggestions for Extra Zing!
This salad is so versatile, you can enjoy it in many ways:
– Serve it on top of grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
– Use it as a vibrant filling for tacos or burritos.
– Add some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick if you love a little heat.
And if you want to turn it into a meal, you can add black beans or quinoa for a filling vegetarian option.
I just know you’re going to love this Simple Avocado Mango Salad as much as I do! It’s the perfect dish for sunny picnics, hearty barbecues, or even just a cozy dinner at home. Try it out and let me know how you like it! Happy cooking!
