Mango salad is a bright and refreshing dish that brings a little sunshine to your table. With sweet mangoes, crispy spinach, and juicy blueberries, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a summer picnic. It’s simple to whip up, making it a delightful choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it tastes amazing!
Why You Will Love This Mango Salad
This mango salad is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. You only need a few fresh ingredients to create a dish that everyone will love. It’s family-friendly and light, making it a great way to add more fruits and veggies to your meals. With minimal prep, you can have a healthy salad ready in just a few minutes!
How to Make Mango Salad
Making this salad is straightforward and fun! You’ll be combining the fresh ingredients with a simple dressing. It’s all about tossing everything together for a delightful, colorful mix. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can create a beautiful mango salad in no time.
What You Need
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, torn
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
- In a large bowl, combine diced mangoes, spinach, blueberries, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- If desired, sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste!
How to Serve Mango Salad
This mango salad is versatile and can be served in many ways. Enjoy it as a light main dish or a side dish at your next barbecue. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome meal. It also makes a delightful addition to any summer gathering or potluck, bringing color and flavor to your table.
How to Store Mango Salad
To keep your salad fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed the same day, but leftovers can be kept for up to two days. If you want to make it ahead, prepare the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness. This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the fruits and greens.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure your mangoes are ripe for the best flavor!
- Swap spinach for arugula for a peppery taste.
- You can use any berries you have on hand for a twist.
- If you’re not a fan of feta, try avocado for creaminess.
- For added protein, toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- Serve immediately to keep the greens crispy.
- Adjust the lime juice to your taste—more for tanginess, less for sweetness.
- If you prepare it in advance, keep the dressing separate until serving.
- Don’t overmix; a gentle toss keeps the salad looking beautiful.
Variations & Swaps
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut.
- Instead of feta, use goat cheese for a creamier texture.
- Toss in some nuts or seeds for crunch and healthy fats.
- Substitute lemon juice for lime if that’s what you have.
- For a heartier version, add cooked quinoa or farro.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients ahead. Just store them separately until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the greens fresh and prevents sogginess.
Can I freeze leftover mango salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad. The fresh fruits and greens will lose their texture and flavor when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
How do I reheat leftover mango salad?
To enjoy your salad, simply let it come to room temperature. You can also mix it into some cooked grains or use it as a topping for a warm dish. Avoid reheating in a microwave, as that will wilt the greens.
What can I use instead of mango?
You can substitute diced peaches or nectarines for a similar sweet flavor. Other fruits like mandarin oranges or diced apples can also work well.
What are some good sides to pair with this salad?
This salad goes beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or a cheesy quesadilla. It’s versatile enough to brighten any meal!
Mango Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 pieces ripe mangoes, diced Make sure your mangoes are ripe for the best flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, torn Can be swapped for arugula for a peppery taste.
- 1 cup blueberries Any berries can be used for a twist.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional) Optional; can substitute with avocado.
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Adjust to taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine diced mangoes, spinach, blueberries, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- If desired, sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste!
