Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe

There is nothing quite as refreshing and vibrant as this Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe. It combines the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes with the crisp, cool crunch of cucumbers, creating a colorful and flavor-packed side dish. Whether you’re looking to add a tropical twist to your summer meals or need a quick, healthy salad to accompany spicy dishes, this recipe hits every note. It’s light, zesty, and comes together in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet each plays an essential role in making this salad burst with flavor, texture, and bright color. From the juicy mango to the tangy lime juice, every element contributes to the perfect balance that defines this Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe.

• 2 ½ cups chopped ripe mango: Use mango that’s perfectly ripe to get that juicy sweetness and a vibrant golden color.
• 2 cups cucumber, cut into small cubes: English cucumbers work best for their thin skin and fewer seeds, adding a refreshing crunch.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered: These add a juicy, slightly tart burst that complements the sweetness of the mango.
• 2 Tbsp finely minced shallot: This adds a subtle oniony depth without overpowering the salad; red onion can be a great substitute.
• 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs bring brightness and a garden-fresh aroma to the dish.
• 2 Tbsp lime juice: The acidity here is crucial for balancing the sweetness and adding a zesty punch.
• ½ tsp maple syrup (optional): A touch of maple syrup can enhance sweetness if your mangoes aren’t quite as ripe.
• ½ tsp sea salt: Just enough to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients

Start by washing all your produce thoroughly. Peel and dice the ripe mango into small cubes, aiming for bite-sized pieces that will mix evenly. Chop your cucumber into similarly sized cubes to ensure a consistent texture. Quarter the cherry tomatoes and finely mince your shallot and herbs. This prep work sets the stage for the salad’s beautiful layers of flavor and texture.

Step 2: Combine in a Bowl

Place all your chopped ingredients into a medium mixing bowl. Use a large spoon or salad tossers to gently mix the mango, cucumber, tomatoes, shallot, and herbs. The goal here is to combine without bruising the delicate mango.

Step 3: Add Dressing Components

Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice and sprinkle the sea salt over the salad. If you’re using maple syrup, add it now. Toss everything gently once again until the dressing coats every bite. This step really brings the salad to life, enhancing brightness and a subtle sweetness that makes this salad irresistible.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Now’s your moment to fine-tune. Taste the salad and adjust lime juice for more zest, maple syrup for additional sweetness, or salt to balance the flavors. Little tweaks here can make a big difference in customizing the salad exactly to your liking.

How to Serve Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For an inviting presentation, consider garnishing your salad with a few fresh cilantro leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped red chili for a subtle kick. Toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds also add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft mango.

Side Dishes

This Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with spicy or smoky mains. It’s the perfect companion for dishes like jerk tofu, roasted plantain bowls, smoky lentil tacos, or even fiery baked fish tacos. The salad’s cool sweetness balances bold, spicy flavors like a dream.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to jazz it up for a gathering, serve the salad in hollowed-out mini mango shells or chilled glass bowls. You could also layer it in parfait glasses with some creamy yogurt or guacamole for an elegant appetizer. No matter how you present it, this salad is sure to catch eyes and interrupt conversations with its vibrant appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad keeps fresh and flavorful for up to 2-3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

This particular salad is not freezer friendly because the high water content in cucumbers and mangoes will break down and lead to a mushy texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh whenever possible.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. The fresh crispness and zing of the lime dressing are at their peak when the salad is fresh and chilled.

FAQs

Can I use regular onions instead of shallots?

Absolutely! While shallots provide a milder, sweeter taste, finely chopped red onions are a great substitute and will add a bit more bite to your salad.

How do I know when mangoes are ripe enough for this salad?

Ripe mangoes will yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a fruity aroma at the stem end. They should be vibrant in color and free from green patches.

Is this salad gluten-free and vegan?

Yes, this Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe is perfectly gluten-free, vegan, and oil-free, making it a fantastic healthy choice for many dietary needs.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! You can experiment with adding bell peppers for color, radishes for crunch, or even some diced pineapple for extra tropical sweetness.

What’s the best way to cut the ingredients for even mixing?

Try to cut your mango, cucumber, and tomatoes into uniform bite-sized cubes or quarters. This will ensure every forkful has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

If you’re yearning for an easy, refreshing dish that’s bursting with tropical flavor and simple enough to whip up in a flash, this Easy Mango Cucumber Salad Recipe is calling your name. It’s a versatile, bright, and healthy salad that can brighten up any meal and inspire your taste buds to celebrate fresh, wholesome ingredients. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

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