If you are searching for a salad that bursts with tropical freshness, creamy texture, and vibrant colors, you’ve just found it. The Best Mango Avocado Salad (Healthy & Nourishing) Recipe is a delightful mix of sweet mangoes, buttery avocados, crisp bell peppers, and a touch of zesty lime that makes every bite a celebration. It’s not only refreshing and tasty but also incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for those warm days or whenever you want a nourishing, guilt-free treat that feels like sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From creamy avocado to bright cilantro, each component adds its unique magic to make this salad truly irresistible.
- 2 ripe or semi-ripe mangos, peeled and diced (about 663 grams): Choose mangos that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and chopped (about 473 grams): These bring a creamy texture that balances the mango’s sweetness perfectly.
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts): Adds a gentle onion flavor without overpowering the salad.
- 1 cup packed chopped fresh cilantro (50 grams): Cilantro infuses the dish with an aromatic, fresh brightness.
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (about 150 grams): Provides a satisfying crunch and vibrant red color.
- 3 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds (salted or unsalted): These seeds add a lovely nutty crunch that elevates every bite.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps to marry all the flavors and adds richness.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons lime juice (start with 2 and add more to taste): Offers a zesty tang that brightens the entire salad.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1 fresh red chile pepper or jalapeño (seeded and minced, optional): If you enjoy a little kick, this is your secret weapon.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make The Best Mango Avocado Salad (Healthy & Nourishing) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing your ripe mangos and chopping the avocados into bite-sized chunks. The combination of juicy mango and creamy avocado sets the stage for the salad’s luscious texture. Finely chop green onions, cilantro, and red bell pepper for vibrant crunch and herbal notes that awaken your palate.
Step 2: Combine Everything in a Large Bowl
Gently toss the mango, avocado, onions, cilantro, bell pepper, and roasted sunflower seeds in a spacious bowl. Being gentle here is key—you want to keep those creamy avocado pieces intact while ensuring every ingredient gets an even spread.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lime juice over the mix. The olive oil lends a silky richness while the lime juice adds a fresh, tangy zing that makes the flavors pop. Toss it gently again so everything is beautifully coated.
Step 4: Season and Add a Touch of Heat if Desired
Sprinkle salt to taste and toss once more. If you love a little heat, stir in some finely minced fresh red chile or jalapeño, or serve it on the side for your guests to add as they like. This option keeps the salad friendly for all palettes.
How to Serve The Best Mango Avocado Salad (Healthy & Nourishing) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra roasted sunflower seeds on top adds a lovely crunch right before serving. For a pop of color and extra zest, feel free to add a few fresh cilantro leaves or a thin wedge of lime on the side—both elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad shines brightest as a light meal on its own but pairs wonderfully alongside grilled seafood or chicken, offering a refreshing contrast. It also works perfectly next to warm, fluffy quinoa or a simple bowl of black beans for a wholesome, balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this salad in hollowed-out mango halves for a stunning tropical touch that’s sure to impress. Alternatively, spoon it into small, crisp lettuce cups for a fun, finger-food style option that’s fantastic at parties or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of The Best Mango Avocado Salad (Healthy & Nourishing) Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to enjoy within 1-2 days since avocado can brown quickly; a squeeze of extra lime juice on top before storing helps maintain freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the delicate texture of avocado and mango changes after thawing, often becoming mushy. To keep the salad fresh and appetizing, stick to storing it chilled.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is unnecessary and not advised. It’s designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, where all the vibrant flavors and textures truly shine.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
While fresh mango provides the best texture and sweetness, frozen mango can be a convenient alternative. Just thaw completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery salad.
Is it okay to substitute cilantro if I don’t like it?
Absolutely! Parsley or fresh basil can be great substitutes that offer a different but equally fresh herbal note to the salad.
How can I make this salad vegan and gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, so no modifications are needed. It’s a wholesome choice for many dietary preferences.
What’s the best way to dice mango without making a mess?
Slice the mango cheeks along the pit, score the flesh in a grid pattern without cutting the skin, then scoop out the cubes with a spoon. This technique keeps things neat and easy.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Yes! Grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas make excellent protein additions that turn this salad into a filling and balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about The Best Mango Avocado Salad (Healthy & Nourishing) Recipe that feels like a burst of sunshine no matter the season. It’s fresh, colorful, nutrient-packed, and quick to prepare, making it a perfect go-to whenever you want to treat yourself and those you love to something vibrant and wholesome. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it hard to stop at just one helping!
PrintThe Best Mango Avocado Salad (Healthy & Nourishing) Recipe
A vibrant and healthy Mango Avocado Salad combining ripe mangoes, creamy avocados, and fresh vegetables, topped with roasted sunflower seeds and a zesty lime dressing. This nourishing salad is easy to prepare in just 15 minutes and serves as a perfect refreshing side or light meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 ripe or semi-ripe mangos, peeled and diced (about 663 grams)
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and chopped (about 473 grams)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts)
- 1 cup packed chopped fresh cilantro (50 grams)
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (about 150 grams)
- 3 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds (salted or unsalted)
Dressing
- 2 to 3 tablespoons lime juice (start with 2 and add more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 1 fresh red chile pepper or jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the diced mangos, chopped avocados, finely chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, chopped red bell pepper, and roasted sunflower seeds. Handle carefully to keep the avocado intact.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and lime juice over the combined ingredients, ensuring even distribution for a fresh and tangy flavor.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss the salad ingredients together to mix the flavors without mashing the fruit and vegetables. Season with salt to taste and toss again to evenly season.
- Optional Heat: If desired, stir in the minced fresh red chile pepper or jalapeño for some heat, or serve it on the side to suit individual preferences.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm mangoes and avocados for best texture.
- Adjust the lime juice and salt to your preference for acidity and seasoning.
- The salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Sunflower seeds add a nice crunch, but you can substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts.
- Omitting the fresh chile makes it suitable for mild palates.