Mango Salad

Vegetarian Mango Salad Recipe from Indonesia and Thailand

Region / culture: Indonesia, Thailand | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mango salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the tanginess of red onion and bell pepper. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement a main course.

History

Mango salad is a popular dish in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Thailand and Indonesia. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer, and is known for its vibrant colors and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

2 ripe mangoes
0.25 red onion, thinly sliced
0.5 red bell pepper, julienned
1 lime, juice and zest (optional)
fresh cilantro

How to prepare

To prepare the mango, start by cutting off as much fruit as possible, slicing along the side of the pit.
You can determine the direction of the pit by its shape.
Score the mango halves lengthwise and crosswise into 0.75 inch cubes, cutting through to the skin but not all the way through.
Turn the mango halves inside out and slice off the cubed fruit.
Toss the mango cubes with the remaining ingredients.
This dish pairs well with any Thai or Indonesian cuisine.

Variations

Add some diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Mix in some chopped fresh mint or basil for a burst of freshness.
Drizzle with a spicy chili-lime dressing for an extra kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Choose ripe mangoes for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to cut the mango into uniform cubes for a visually appealing presentation.

- Adjust the amount of red onion and bell pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- For added flavor, consider adding some lime zest to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Mango salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a topping for tacos or nachos. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious mango salad is to use ripe mangoes and to cut them into uniform cubes. Be sure to toss the salad gently to combine the ingredients without crushing the mango cubes.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red onion, you can use shallots or green onions as a substitute. You can also use yellow or orange bell peppers instead of red bell pepper for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mango salad up to a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the mango salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut or chopped peanuts on top for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Mango salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. It also complements dishes with bold flavors such as curries or stir-fries.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover mango salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 120 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 0.5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 60% of the recommended daily intake per serving

- Vitamin A: 25% of the recommended daily intake per serving

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly. However, individuals with allergies to mangoes, onions, or bell peppers should avoid this dish.

Summary

Mango salad is a low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A. It is a healthy and delicious option for those looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their diet.

Summary

Mango salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day, and I was browsing through a magazine while sitting on my porch swing, sipping on a glass of iced tea. The vibrant colors of the mango salad caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it.

I had always been a lover of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and mangoes were no exception. Their sweet, juicy flavor was perfect for a refreshing summer salad. I had never made a mango salad before, but I was excited to give it a try.

I read through the recipe carefully, taking note of all the ingredients and steps involved. The recipe called for ripe mangoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of chili powder for a spicy kick. It seemed like a simple and straightforward dish to make, but I could already taste the burst of flavors in my mouth.

As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the salad, memories of past cooking adventures flooded my mind. I recalled the time my dear friend Maria taught me how to make her famous lasagna, layering the pasta sheets with rich tomato sauce and creamy cheese. I remembered the summer I spent in Italy, learning how to make homemade pasta from scratch with my Nonna.

Cooking had always been a passion of mine, and I cherished the moments spent in the kitchen, creating delicious meals for my loved ones. Each recipe I learned was like a treasure, passed down through generations or discovered in a far-off land.

As I finished tossing the mango salad with the dressing, I took a bite and savored the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The sweetness of the mangoes paired perfectly with the tangy lime juice and spicy chili powder. The crunch of the red onion added a refreshing bite, while the cilantro brought a burst of freshness to the dish.

I knew then that this mango salad would become a staple in my recipe collection, a dish I would make time and time again for family gatherings and summer picnics. I could already picture the smiles on my loved ones' faces as they took their first bite, the flavors dancing on their tongues.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste preferences. I added a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a touch of sweetness, or a handful of crunchy peanuts for added texture. Each variation brought a new dimension to the dish, making it even more irresistible.

I shared the recipe with my friends and family, passing on the tradition of making mango salad to the next generation. My grandchildren would gather around the kitchen counter, watching in awe as I peeled and diced the mangoes, teaching them the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients in cooking.

As I grew older, my love for cooking never wavered. The kitchen was my sanctuary, a place where I could express my creativity and share my passion with others. Each recipe I learned was a chapter in the story of my life, a memory to be cherished and passed down through the generations.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about the first time I made mango salad, I am filled with gratitude for all the recipes I have learned and the joy they have brought me. Cooking has been a journey of discovery and delight, a journey that I will continue to cherish for years to come. And as I take another bite of this delicious mango salad, I am reminded once again of the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.