Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 English cucumber, halved and sliced into half moons
- 1 small red bell pepper, cored and thinly sliced
- 2 1/2 pounds fresh ripe mangos, peeled and sliced (about 4-5 mangos)
- 1 shallot, halved and thinly sliced
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
Seasonings and Dressing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper flakes
- Juice of 1 large lime
- About 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the baby spinach, cucumber slices, red bell pepper slices, mango slices, thinly sliced shallot, pomegranate seeds, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint. This combination creates the base of your fresh Mediterranean salad.
- Season the Salad: Sprinkle kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Aleppo pepper flakes over the salad to taste. These seasonings add layers of flavor and a touch of spice.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Pour the juice of one large lime and about 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing and seasoning.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and, if needed, adjust salt, pepper, or Aleppo pepper to your preference for balanced flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving plate and sprinkle a bit more Aleppo pepper flakes on top for extra color and mild heat. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Aleppo pepper can be substituted with crushed red pepper flakes or mild chili powder if unavailable.
- For a zesty twist, add a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup to the dressing.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the juiciness of the mango.
- Can be made vegan and gluten free, suitable for light and healthy diets.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free