Avocado Mango Salad

This easy and delicious Avocado Mango Salad is the perfect addition to your summer meals. With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, this salad is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or even a light lunch. The combination of creamy avocados and sweet mangoes creates a delightful balance that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to make with just a handful of ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a great option for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The blend of avocado, mango, and spices creates a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is low in calories but high in taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a family dinner, this salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Avocado Mango Salad, you will need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for easily dicing fruits and vegetables without bruising them.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface helps keep your workspace organized while chopping ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring spoons: Precise measurements ensure you achieve the best flavor balance in your salad.

Ingredients

This easy and delicious Avocado Mango Salad is made of simple ingredients and it’s a very popular summer salad recipe for all your grilled recipes!

Fresh Produce

• 2 small mangoes (peeled and cubed)
• 4 whole avocados (peeled and cubed)
• ½ small red onion (finely diced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

Seasonings

• 1 whole lemon (juiced)
• 1 large clove garlic (mashed)
• ¾ tsp. salt (or less to taste)
• 2 tbsp. cilantro (finely chopped)
• 2-3 tbsps. olive oil (more or less per preference)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Avocado Mango Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by getting all your ingredients ready:
1. Dice the red onion finely.
2. Mash the garlic clove.

Step 2: Cube the Fruits

1. Peel the avocados and mangoes, then cube them into small pieces.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

1. Place all prepared ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
2. Squeeze in the juice of one whole lemon, then add salt and olive oil.

Step 4: Toss to Mix

Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy your flavorful Avocado Mango Salad on its own or as a refreshing side dish!

How to Serve Avocado Mango Salad

Avocado Mango Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to make it the star of your meal or serve it as a refreshing side, there are plenty of options.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it chilled: This salad is perfect on its own, especially on hot summer days.
• Add protein: Include grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats: The fresh flavors complement barbecued chicken or steak beautifully.
• Serve alongside tacos: This salad adds a refreshing contrast to spicy dishes.

In Wraps and Sandwiches

• Use as a filling: Spread the salad inside a tortilla or wrap for an easy lunch.
• Top sandwiches: Add this salad to your favorite sandwich for extra flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Avocado Mango Salad

To create the ultimate Avocado Mango Salad, keep these simple tips in mind. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Choose ripe fruit: Use ripe avocados and mangoes for the best taste. They should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed.
• Balance flavors: Adjust salt and lemon juice to suit your taste. A touch more acidity can brighten the salad.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Mix gently: When combining ingredients, toss them lightly to avoid mashing the avocados.

Best Side Dishes for Avocado Mango Salad

This Avocado Mango Salad pairs well with various side dishes, making it perfect for any gathering or meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Chicken: A simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances its flavor without overpowering the salad.
2. Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy chips for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy salad.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: The nutty flavor of quinoa provides a hearty addition while keeping it healthy.
4. Black Bean Tacos: These tacos add protein and spice, creating a balanced meal when served together.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with avocado and mango, enhancing their natural sweetness.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds texture and pairs well with the fresh ingredients in the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Avocado Mango Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using Overripe Avocados: Overripe avocados can ruin the texture of the salad. Always choose avocados that are slightly firm to the touch but yield a little when pressed.
• Not Adding Enough Acid: Skipping lemon juice can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness and to prevent browning.
• Chopping Ingredients Too Large: Large pieces can make the salad hard to eat. Dice mangoes and avocados into bite-sized cubes for the best experience.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your salad flat. Taste and adjust salt as needed, as it enhances all the flavors.
• Storing Incorrectly: Poor storage can lead to mushy ingredients. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Avocado Mango Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 1-2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to preserve its fresh taste.

Freezing Avocado Mango Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• If you must freeze, store only the diced mangoes and avocados separately.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer but may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating Avocado Mango Salad

• Oven: Not recommended as this dish is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Use with caution; heat only for a few seconds if needed, but it’s better enjoyed fresh.
• Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; serve it chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Avocado Mango Salad?

Yes! You can add ingredients like black beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my avocados from browning?

To prevent browning, add more lemon juice and store your salad in an airtight container.

Is this Avocado Mango Salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s low in calories and packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but mix them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Avocado Mango Salad is not just easy to make; it’s also refreshing and versatile. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled dishes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give this delightful summer salad a try today!