This Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad is a refreshing mix of ripe mangoes, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s bright, colorful, and packed with flavor!
Honestly, this salad makes me want to do a happy dance—it’s just that good! I love serving it with grilled chicken for a tasty meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Choose ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor. If mangoes are out of season, try using papaya or even peaches for a fruity twist.
Fish Sauce: This adds a great umami flavor, but feel free to swap it with soy sauce if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Coconut aminos are a great soy-free alternative too.
Chili: Adjust the spice level by changing the type or amount of chili used. If you prefer milder flavors, try using bell pepper or omitting the chili altogether.
Cashew Nuts: If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great substitutes for that crunch!
How Do I Create the Perfect Dressing?
Making the dressing is key for this salad’s flavor! Begin by mixing the lime juice and fish sauce in a bowl. Here’s how to make it smooth:
- Whisk until the brown sugar is dissolved; this ensures the dressing is cohesive.
- Add minced garlic and chopped chili for that extra kick.
- Taste and adjust! If it’s too tangy, add more sugar. If it’s too sweet, squeeze in more lime.
Remember, the dressing can always be adjusted based on your taste preferences. Feel free to play around with the ingredients!
Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced into thin strips
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1 small cucumber, julienned or spiralized
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts, roughly chopped or whole
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or palm sugar
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 small red chili or Thai bird chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vibrant and refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to whip up and makes a perfect side dish to any meal or a light meal on its own!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling the ripe mangoes and slicing them into thin strips. This will make it easier to enjoy them in the salad. Next, julienne or shred the carrot, and julienne or spiralize the cucumber for a fun texture. Lastly, halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped chili, and chili flakes (if using). Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves completely and the dressing is well combined.
3. Toss the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced mango, shredded carrot, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Pour the prepared dressing over the top and gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle the cashew nuts and fresh cilantro leaves over the salad. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious, sweet, and spicy Thai mango salad!
This refreshing dish balances sweet ripe mango with tangy lime, salty fish sauce, and spicy chili. It’s sure to be a hit at your dining table! Enjoy!
FAQ – Easy Sweet and Spicy Thai Mango Salad
Can I Use Unripe Mangoes for This Salad?
While ripe mangoes offer the best sweetness and flavor for this salad, you can use slightly firmer, unripe mangoes for a more tart taste. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they mix well with the other ingredients.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili you use. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider omitting the chili flakes altogether or using bell peppers for a crunchy texture without the heat!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the dressing can make the ingredients soggy over time. If making ahead, consider storing the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos, and your salad will be completely vegan while maintaining a delicious flavor!
