This Thai mango salad is a colorful mix of sweet, spicy, and crunchy flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Fresh mango, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing come together beautifully.
Every bite is a fun journey, especially with the kick of chili that sneaks in! I love serving it as a light lunch or a tasty side at dinner gatherings. It’s as fun to make as it is to eat! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Choose ripe, sweet mangoes for best flavor. If mangoes aren’t in season, try using peaches or nectarines instead—they’ll bring a lovely sweetness.
Carrot: For added crunch and sweetness, a regular carrot works well, but you can substitute with bell peppers for a different color and taste.
Cucumber: Julienne or spiralized cucumber gives great texture. Zucchini is a good alternative if you want a twist, or you can skip it if cucumbers aren’t available.
Chili: Fresh green chili adds heat. If you prefer milder flavors, use bell pepper instead or reduce the amount. You could also use red pepper flakes for an easy swap!
Fish Sauce: This adds depth to the dressing. For a vegetarian option, soy sauce or a splash of coconut aminos works very well.
How Do I Get the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing pulls everything together, and getting it balanced is key! Start with this easy method:
- In a bowl, whisk lime juice, fish sauce, honey, and minced garlic until it combines smoothly.
- Take a moment to taste! If it feels too tangy, add a bit more honey; if it’s too sweet, a splash of lime juice can brighten it up.
- Adding a touch of rice vinegar can enhance flavors; just a teaspoon goes a long way!
Remember, dressings can be adjusted to fit your preference, so don’t hesitate to tweak it as you like!
Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced into thin strips
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small cucumber, julienned (or spiralized)
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup raw cashews
- 1 fresh green chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
- 1 tablespoon honey or palm sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes! Perfect if you’re looking for a quick and healthy dish that’s full of flavor. Just gather your ingredients, whisk up the dressing, and toss everything together. Enjoy the freshness right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), honey (or palm sugar), minced garlic, and rice vinegar (if using) until everything is combined well. Take a moment to taste it! Adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your liking.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced mangoes, julienned carrot, cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced green chili. Give it a good stir to mix everything nicely.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure every piece is coated. Be careful not to mash the mangoes!
4. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Nuts:
Add the fresh cilantro leaves to the salad and toss lightly one more time. This adds a lovely freshness!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Top the salad with raw cashews and a pinch of red chili flakes for an extra kick if you like. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light meal. Enjoy the vibrant balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch!
FAQ
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If mangoes aren’t available, try using diced pineapple or peaches for a similar sweetness. You can also mix in some papaya for an exotic twist!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the salad from getting soggy. Combine everything right before serving for maximum freshness!
What’s a Good Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, soy sauce works wonderfully as a substitute. For a gluten-free version, try tamari or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the salad may become a bit softer as it sits. To refresh, toss in a little extra lime juice before serving again!
