Looking for a salad that’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with tropical flavors? Enter the Avocado Mango Salad. This colorful dish combines creamy avocado, juicy mango, crisp greens, and a zesty dressing, making it the perfect choice for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also nutrient-dense and incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into what makes this salad a must-try for any season!
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Mango Salad
There’s plenty to love about this irresistible salad:
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Fresh and Flavorful – The creaminess of avocado balances the sweetness of mango.
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Nutrient-Rich – Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins.
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Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes.
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Versatile – Great as a side dish, light meal, or party favorite.
Ingredients for Avocado Mango Salad
To create the best Avocado Mango Salad, gather these fresh ingredients:
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1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
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1 ripe avocado, diced
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4 cups arugula or mixed greens
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¼ red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts
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Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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Sliced cucumber
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Cherry tomatoes
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Crumbled feta cheese
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Grilled shrimp or chicken for protein
How to Make Avocado Mango Salad (Step-by-Step Guide)
1: Prepare the Ingredients
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Dice the mango and avocado into bite-sized pieces.
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Thinly slice the red onion.
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Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden.
2: Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
3: Assemble the Salad
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In a large salad bowl, combine arugula, mango, avocado, and red onion.
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
4: Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, tropical flavors!
Pro Tips for the Best Avocado Mango Salad
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Use ripe but firm avocados and mangoes to avoid a mushy texture.
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Add protein like grilled shrimp or chicken to turn it into a full meal.
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Toss gently to keep the avocado and mango intact.
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Serve immediately after dressing to maintain the salad’s crispness.
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For a spicy kick, add a few thin slices of jalapeño.
Health Benefits of Avocado Mango Salad
This salad isn’t just a treat for your taste buds — it’s also a nutritional powerhouse:
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Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber.
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Mango is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
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Arugula offers a peppery flavor and a boost of vitamins K and C.
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Olive oil delivers healthy fats that support overall wellness.
Combining these ingredients results in a dish that’s not only delicious but also supports a healthy lifestyle.
Variations on Avocado Mango Salad
Want to mix things up? Try these tasty variations:
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Tropical Twist – Add pineapple or papaya for extra sweetness.
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Mexican-Inspired – Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
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Mediterranean Style – Toss in cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives.
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Vegan Option – Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
The possibilities are endless, making the Avocado Mango Salad a customizable favorite!
FAQs About Avocado Mango Salad
1. Can I make Avocado Mango Salad ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble it just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and prevent the greens from wilting. You can prepare the dressing and chop other ingredients in advance.
2. How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss the diced avocado in a bit of lime juice before adding it to the salad to help prevent browning.
3. What can I substitute for mango?
Pineapple, peaches, or papaya are great alternatives if you don’t have mango.
4. Is this salad vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
5. Can I add a protein source?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas are great additions to turn this salad into a full meal.
Conclusion
The Avocado Mango Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. With its tropical sweetness, creamy textures, and zesty dressing, it’s a perfect choice for summer gatherings, light lunches, or healthy dinners.
Ready to give it a try? Grab some fresh ingredients and whip up this easy and delicious salad today! And if you love it as much as we do, don’t forget to share it on social media and tag us — we’d love to see your creations!
