Refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing 🍈🥭✨
1. Introduction
Welcome to a tropical taste sensation that is perfect for hot summer days or a healthy snack option — the Mango Cucumber Salad. Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes, the crunch of fresh cucumbers, and a zingy Zesty Lime Dressing, this refreshing mango cucumber salad recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a flavorful addition to your barbecue, this salad will leave your taste buds craving more. Dive into this vibrant dish and discover how simple ingredients can create a dazzling flavor.
2. Ingredients for the Mango Cucumber Salad
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large cucumber, sliced thin or cubed
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chili flakes or fresh jalapeño slices (for added spice, optional)
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Mango Cucumber Salad
Preparing the Fruit and Vegetables
Start by peeling and cubing the mangoes. Wash and slice the cucumber into thin rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. Thinly slice the red onion for a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salad. For added freshness, chop some cilantro leaves and set aside.
Mixing the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 limes, honey or agave syrup if using, salt, and black pepper. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or fresh jalapeño slices. This Zesty Lime Dressing will perfectly complement the sweetness of the mango and crunch of the cucumber.
Combining the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the mango cubes, cucumber slices, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture, ensuring everything is well coated. For best results, let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Storage Tips for the Mango Cucumber Salad
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the mango from browning, consider adding the lime juice just before serving. Keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crispness and vibrant flavors.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad
This refreshing mango cucumber salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a light lunch, side dish for grilled meats, or as a topping on tacos and seafood dishes. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled garlic Parmesan chicken or spicy salmon bowls. This salad also works wonderfully as a picnic or potluck dish—refreshing and colorful!
6. Variations to Customize Your Mango Cucumber Salad
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
- Top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist
- Include other fruits like pineapple or papaya for variety
- Adjust the spice level with more or less chili
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare and toss with the dressing just before serving to keep the freshness and crunch.
Can I substitute the mango with other fruits?
Sure! Pineapple, peaches, or nectarines are great alternatives that add their own unique flavor to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for specific diets?
It is naturally gluten-free, vegan (if honey is omitted or replaced), and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up.
8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for slicing and dicing your cucumbers and onions with ease, simplifying your prep work.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep your lime wedges chilled until ready to dress the salad, ensuring maximum zest and flavor.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Easily mix your Dressings with precision and minimal effort, especially if scaling up to larger quantities.
9. Conclusion
The Mango Cucumber Salad with its Zesty Lime Dressing is an irresistibly fresh and healthy dish that can brighten any meal. Its vibrant flavors and crisp textures make it an excellent choice for hot days, gathering with friends, or a simple, nutritious snack. With minimal prep time and endless variations, this refreshing mango cucumber salad recipe is a must-try for fruit and veggie lovers alike. Add it to your culinary repertoire today and enjoy a taste of the tropics anytime!
Print
Refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing
Discover the vibrant and refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing, a perfect summer dish that combines juicy mangoes, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy lime dressing for a healthy and delicious meal or side dish.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large cucumber, sliced thin or cubed
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chili flakes or fresh jalapeño slices (for added spice, optional)
Instructions
- Peel and cube the mangoes; wash and slice the cucumber into thin rounds or cubes; thinly slice the red onion.
- Chop cilantro leaves if using and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey or agave syrup, salt, and black pepper. Add chili flakes or jalapeño slices for spice if desired.
- In a large bowl, toss mango cubes, cucumber slices, red onion, and cilantro gently.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.
- Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To prevent mango browning, add lime juice just before serving.
- Adjust the spice with more or less chili flakes or jalapeños according to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg