Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Mangoes: Use ripe mangoes for the best sweetness and texture. If mangoes aren’t available, try peaches or papayas for a similar taste and feel!

Carrot: Freshly julienned carrots add crunch. You can replace them with bell peppers or shredded cabbage for different textures.

Cucumber: Julienned cucumber keeps the salad refreshing. Zucchini works well if you prefer a low-carb option or don’t have cucumbers on hand.

Cilantro: This herb gives the salad a distinct flavor. If you’re not a fan, swap it with mint or parsley for a fresher taste.

Fish Sauce: This adds umami flavor. You can use soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian option or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.

Cashews: Crunchy and delicious! Almonds or peanuts can be good substitutes if cashews aren’t available or if you have nut allergies.

How Do I Make Sure My Mango is Perfectly Ripe?

Choosing the right mango is crucial to this salad. A perfect ripe mango should have a little give when you press it gently. Here’s how to pick a good one:

• Look for a mango that has a vibrant color—yellow or reddish hues generally indicate ripeness.
• Smell the stem end of the mango. It should have a sweet fragrance.
• If it’s still hard, let it ripen on your kitchen counter for a few days, checking regularly.

Once ripe, store it in the fridge if you’re not using it right away, but use it within a few days for the best flavor.

Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 small cucumber, julienned or spiralized
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup cashew nuts
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
• 1 tbsp honey or palm sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)
• Red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This vibrant salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick meal or a refreshing side dish. Just chop, mix, and enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits:

Begin by peeling and slicing the ripe mangoes into thin strips. Next, julienne the carrot and cucumber. You want everything to be in similar sizes for a lovely presentation. Place them all in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add the Fresh Ingredients:

Into the bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh cilantro leaves, and cashew nuts. This part adds lots of color and crunch! Toss everything gently to mix.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), honey (or palm sugar), minced garlic, and chopped red chili. This flavorful dressing is what brings everything together!

4. Combine and Coat:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together gently to ensure that all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.

5. Final Touches:

If you like, you can add a bit of toasted sesame oil for some extra flavor. And if you enjoy heat, sprinkle on some red chili flakes to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

This salad is best served immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors and crisp textures. Enjoy the delicious balance of sweet mango, spicy chili, and tangy lime in this refreshing Thai salad!

FAQ: Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad

Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Mangoes?

Absolutely! If mangoes aren’t available, you can use ripe peaches, papayas, or even pineapple. Just be sure to choose fruits that are sweet and juicy to maintain the salad’s vibrant flavor profile.

Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?

Yes! To make this salad completely vegan, simply substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari, and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey or palm sugar.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables may start to wilt. If storing, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Can I Add Protein to This Salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would make excellent additions for a heartier meal. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients!