Name: Fresh Mango Salad with Avocado
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 2 cups diced ripe mango (about 2 large or 4 small mangoes); 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (about 1 ½ cups); ½ cup diced red onion; 1 cup diced cucumber (about ½ of a medium cucumber); 1 just-ripe avocado, diced; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is an explosion of tropical flavors! The sweetness of the mango complements the creamy avocado, while the cucumber and bell pepper add crunch and freshness. The lime maple dressing enhances all the ingredients, giving it just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. With the addition of fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil, this salad is bursting with aromatic freshness. It’s easy to make, healthy, and incredibly refreshing.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
2 cups diced ripe mango (about 2 large or 4 small mangoes)
1 medium red bell pepper, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
½ cup diced red onion
1 cup diced cucumber (about ½ of a medium cucumber)
1 just-ripe avocado, diced
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, maple syrup, olive oil, and ½ teaspoon of salt until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and avocado.
Add the Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped cilantro, mint, and basil.
Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated in the lime maple dressing.
Serve: Taste and add more salt if necessary. Serve immediately, or chill for 10-15 minutes for a refreshing, cool dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10-15 minutes, and no cooking is required, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.

Variations

Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
More vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like jalapeños for heat, or corn for sweetness and crunch.
Herb variations: Swap out the cilantro, mint, and basil for other fresh herbs like parsley or dill if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Make it spicy: Add a chopped chili pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The avocado may begin to brown, but the flavors will remain intact. For the freshest taste, it’s recommended to eat it within a day.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing and avocado just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

2. Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for a similar sweetness.

3. Can I add more fruit to this salad?

Yes! You can add other fruits like pineapple, orange segments, or pomegranate seeds for a more tropical flavor.

4. Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or coconut oil for a different flavor, though olive oil is the most neutral option.

5. Can I make this salad spicier?

Yes! Add chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing to give the salad a spicy kick.

6. How long does the salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best eaten fresh but will last for up to 1 day in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown over time.

7. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is already vegan, with no animal-based products.

8. Can I add nuts or seeds to this salad?

Yes, you can add roasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped almonds for extra crunch.

9. How can I store the leftover dressing?

You can store the leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

10. How can I make the salad creamier?

If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a bit of mashed avocado into the dressing or a spoonful of vegan yogurt.

Conclusion

This Mango, Avocado, and Cucumber Salad with Lime Maple Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. The sweet mango, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables create a harmonious texture, while the lime maple dressing adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness. With the addition of fresh herbs, this salad is an explosion of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to impress!