This Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad is a bright mix of ripe mangoes, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It’s fresh, colorful, and perfect for a side dish or a light meal!
Who knew salad could taste like a tropical vacation? I love how quick it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and enjoy! A sprinkle of nuts adds the perfect crunch too! đźĄđźĄ—
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Fresh ripe mangoes are the star of this salad. They should be sweet and slightly soft to touch. If mangoes aren’t available, you could use papaya for a similar texture and flavor.
Carrots: I love using fresh carrots for crunch and color. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cut or shredded carrots work just fine!
Cucumber or Zucchini: Both offer a refreshing crunch. If zucchini isn’t on hand, go with cucumber, or even bell peppers for a different twist.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with fresh mint or basil for a unique taste.
Cashews: They add a nice crunch and richness. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can work well instead.
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is crucial for bringing this salad together. Whisking in a small bowl is perfect for ensuring everything mixes well. Here’s how to get it yummy:
- Start with fresh lime juice for zesty flavor—it brightens everything up.
- If you’re vegan or allergic to fish, use soy sauce as a delicious alternative to fish sauce.
- Honey adds sweetness, but you could try agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Adjust the garlic and chili flakes based on your taste preference. Start low and add more if you like it spicy!
Mix until the sugar dissolves completely. Doing this helps all the flavors combine, making the salad even tastier!
Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup julienned carrot
- 1 cup julienned cucumber or zucchini
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts (optional for crunch)
- 1 small fresh green chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon honey or palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Just chop, mix, and enjoy the colorful and crunchy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ripe mango strips, julienned carrot, cucumber (or zucchini), and halved cherry tomatoes. Give it a light toss to mix everything together.
2. Add Fresh Flavors:
Next, add the thinly sliced green chili for some heat, along with half of the fresh cilantro leaves. This will give the salad a fresh, aromatic touch!
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), honey, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Mix until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.
4. Combine the Salad with Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the delicious dressing.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the cashew nuts on top for extra texture and add the remaining cilantro leaves as a garnish. The salad is ready to serve!
6. Let It Chill:
For an even tastier experience, you can chill the salad in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together before enjoying.
Enjoy this vibrant, sweet, and spicy Thai mango salad as a refreshing side or a light meal! Perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Mango?
Absolutely! While mangoes are the star here for their sweetness and texture, you can also use papaya, pineapple, or even fresh peaches for a unique twist!
What If I Don’t Have Fish Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian option. It will still add a lovely umami flavor to the dressing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crunch, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, toss it with a little extra dressing before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap in other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even thinly sliced cabbage for extra color and texture!
