This Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad is a refreshing treat! It features juicy mango, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors.
Making this salad is as simple as chopping your ingredients and tossing them together. Perfect for a hot day, it’s a colorful dish that makes me feel like I’m on a tropical vacation! 🥭🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mango: Ripe mangoes are key for sweetness and juiciness. If mangoes aren’t available, try using papaya or even sliced peaches for a different flavor.
Carrot: Julienned carrots add a nice crunch. For an alternative, you can use bell peppers or zucchini if you prefer.
Cucumber: A small cucumber gives a refreshing taste. You could swap it for a zucchini or even radish for a bit of a kick.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add vibrant color and sweetness. You can use grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes if needed.
Fish Sauce: This adds umami flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, soy sauce or tamari works well and keeps the flavor balanced.
How Can I Make the Dressing Extra Flavorful?
The dressing is important for tying the salad together. Here are some tips to enhance its flavor:
- Use fresh lime juice for a bright, zesty taste. Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same flavor.
- Incorporate ginger and garlic for a punch of flavor. Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic are ideal.
- Adjust the honey or sugar based on the sweetness of your mangoes. If they’re really sweet, you might need less.
- Add more chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance. You can also add a bit of sesame oil for added richness.
Mixing everything in a small bowl and letting it sit for a few minutes can help the flavors blend even better.
Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced into thin strips
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup raw cashews
- A handful of fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small green chili, thinly sliced (adjust to desired spiciness)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon honey or palm sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and delightful dish perfect for a light meal or side dish, making it super convenient for busy days or spontaneous gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by washing all your fresh produce. Peel the mangoes and slice them into thin strips. Julienne the carrot and cucumber into small, thin pieces for easy eating. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set everything aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), honey (or palm sugar), minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and the honey has dissolved. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more lime for tanginess or honey for sweetness!
3. Combine the Salad:
Once your veggies and dressing are ready, pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are coated in that delicious dressing.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add fresh cilantro leaves and sprinkle the raw cashews on top. This keeps the cashews crunchy and adds a lovely finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and crunchy!
This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a mix of fresh flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your bright and tasty Thai Mango Salad!
FAQ for Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If mangoes aren’t in season, you can substitute them with papaya, peaches, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Just aim for fruits that are juicy and slightly sweet to keep that flavor balance.
How Spicy Is This Salad?
The heat level can be adjusted based on your preference! The small green chili adds a nice kick, but feel free to omit it or use a milder pepper if you’re sensitive to spice. You can also adjust the chili flakes in the dressing to make it more or less spicy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
For the best flavor and freshness, it’s best to serve this salad immediately after preparing it. If you need to make it ahead, prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately, then combine them right before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the veggies.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. However, keep in mind that the cashews may soften, and the salad might lose some crunch. To refresh it, you can add a bit more lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro when serving.
