This refreshing salad combines creamy avocado and sweet mango, making it a tasty treat. It’s bright and colorful, perfect for a sunny day or a light dinner!
I love how easy it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Throw in some lime juice for extra zing, and you’ve got a hit dish everyone will love. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure. If they’re hard, leave them out for a day or two. For a different flavor, try using mangos or switch to ripe peaches or pears.
Mango: Ripe mangoes are sweet and juicy. If mango is out of season, try substituting with pineapple or kiwi for a similar tropical feel.
Red Onion: This adds flavor and crunch. You can swap it out for green onions or shallots if you want a milder taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the salad. If you’re not a fan, parsley or mint can work too, offering a different twist!
How Do You Avoid Mashing the Avocado?
Gently handling the avocados is key to keeping them intact in the salad. Here’s how:
- Use a sharp knife for dicing, and cut the avocados in halves without pressing down too hard.
- When mixing the salad, use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to fold the ingredients carefully, instead of stirring vigorously.
- Add the dressing just before serving to reduce the time the avocados sit coated, which can make them mushy.
How to Make Easy Avocado Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tbsp lime juice (about half a lime)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: A pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious and refreshing salad will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy! You can serve it immediately or chill it for about 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, gently mix together the diced avocados and mango. Be careful not to mash them; you want nice, chunky pieces!
2. Add Fresh Flavor:
Next, toss in the finely chopped red onion and fresh cilantro leaves. These ingredients will add a burst of color and flavor to your salad.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and the optional chili powder. This dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to coat it evenly. Again, be gentle to keep the avocado pieces intact.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your salad! Serve it right away as a refreshing side dish or let it chill for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Whichever way you choose, it will be delicious!
Enjoy this bright, creamy, tangy salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If mango isn’t available, you can substitute it with pineapple, kiwi, or even peaches for a different twist. Just make sure the fruit is ripe for the best flavor.
How Do I Keep My Avocado from Browning?
To minimize browning, use ripe avocados and add lime juice immediately after cutting them. If you have leftover salad, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to slow down oxidation.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours before serving. Just keep the avocado and mango separate from the dressing until you’re ready to mix to avoid mushiness.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, and also makes a great topping for tacos or burritos. It’s light enough to be a refreshing side dish or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own!
