This Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad is a colorful mix of fresh mango, zesty lime, and vibrant veggies. It’s refreshing with a fun kick that’s perfect for any meal!
It’s like a party in your mouth! I love how easy it is to whip up, and it’s a great way to impress friends. Pair it with grilled chicken for a light lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Ripe mangoes are essential for that sweet flavor. If mangoes aren’t in season, you can try using papaya or even peaches. They provide a similar texture and sweetness.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers for their mild taste and crunchy texture. If they’re not available, you could replace them with zucchini for a nice twist.
Fish Sauce: This sauce gives the salad its authentic Thai flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, soy sauce or tamari makes a great alternative. It keeps the taste balanced without losing that umami punch.
Cashews: Roasted cashews add a great crunch. Almonds or peanuts can work too. Toasting them beforehand can enhance their flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Perfectly Tossed?
Tossing salads can be tricky, but a few tricks can help. You want everything well mixed without crushing the delicate ingredients.
- Start with the sturdier vegetables like carrots and cucumbers at the bottom of the bowl.
- Add mango and tomatoes gently on top. This prevents them from getting squished.
- When pouring on the dressing, drizzle it evenly over the top.
- Use your hands or two large spoons to gently lift and turn the salad, rotating from the bottom to the top.
This method keeps everything intact while ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy your salad making!
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
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews
- 1-2 green chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian/vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon honey or palm sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Red pepper flakes or Thai chili flakes, to taste (for extra spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and can be served right away. It is perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling the mangoes and cutting them into thin strips. Use a sharp knife or a peeler for the carrot, and julienne it. Do the same with the cucumber, or you can spiralize it for a fun twist!
2. Mix the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced mango, julienned carrot, cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced green chilies. This colorful mix will make your salad visually appealing and full of flavor.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), honey (or palm sugar), minced garlic, and grated ginger if using. Mix well until combined. This dressing will bring the sweet and spicy flavors together beautifully!
4. Toss the Salad
Carefully pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything gently to coat the vegetables and mango evenly with the dressing.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle roasted cashews and fresh cilantro leaves on top of the salad. If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes or Thai chili flakes to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad immediately for a fresh and crisp experience. It goes wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood, making it a perfect side dish.
This salad is a lovely balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, embodying the delightful flavors of Thai cuisine. Enjoy each bite!
Can I Use Unripe Mangoes for This Salad?
While ripe mangoes provide the best sweetness and texture, you can use slightly unripe mangoes for a firmer bite. Keep in mind that they will have a more tart flavor, so you may want to adjust the honey or sugar in the dressing to balance it out.
What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, soy sauce or tamari works beautifully as a substitute for fish sauce. You can also use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor while keeping it soy-free!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables may wilt when stored. You can keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded cabbage for extra crunch. Just make sure to keep the overall balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors for the best result!
