Thai Mango Salad with Peppers and a Tangy Dressing

Thai Mango Salad, Fruity Fun and Colorful

Salads come in many varieties, and this Thai Mango Salad is a standout when mangoes are in season. The sweet, juicy mango pairs beautifully with crunchy red peppers, tangy onions, and a refreshing Thai-inspired dressing. It’s perfect for family meals or gatherings with friends, offering a light and flavorful dish that complements any table spread. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it as visually appealing as it is tasty. This salad is particularly special when you’re looking for something fruity and exciting to serve with a summer meal.

Did You Know?

Mango: Known as the "king of fruits," mangoes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They add a natural sweetness to dishes like our Thai Mango Salad and are beneficial for immune health, skin health, and digestion. Including mangoes in your diet can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your meals.

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:
2 ripe mangoes, peeled and julienned
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

Dressing:
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

Prepare Salad:
In a large bowl, combine julienned mangoes, red bell pepper, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
Personal Tip: For perfect julienned mangoes, use a sharp knife and cut them when they are ripe but still slightly firm to avoid mushiness.

Make Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and red chili flakes until well combined.
Personal Tip: Adjust the chili flakes to your desired heat level, adding more if you enjoy a spicier kick.

Toss Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Personal Tip: Toss the salad right before serving to keep the ingredients crisp and fresh.

Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired.
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Personal Tip: For added crunch, toast the peanuts before sprinkling them over the salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 150, Protein: 2g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Sugars: 20g, Total Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 480mg, Fiber: 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Choose Ripe Mangoes: Select mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. Ripe mangoes ensure the best flavor and sweetness for your salad.

2. DIY Dressing: Making your own Thai dressing is more economical and allows you to control the ingredients. Whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chili flakes for a fresh and tangy dressing.

3. Bulk Buy Peppers: Purchase red bell peppers in bulk when they are on sale. They can be used in various dishes, adding color and nutrition to your meals.

4. Fresh Cilantro: Grow your own cilantro at home. It's easy to cultivate and provides a fresh, aromatic herb for your recipes, saving you money on store-bought herbs.

5. Peanut Alternatives: If you have a peanut allergy or prefer a different texture, use cashews or almonds as a crunchy topping for your salad.

6. Meal Prep: Prepare the salad components ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. This saves time and allows for quick assembly when you're ready to serve.

7. Adjust Spice Level: Control the heat of the dressing by adjusting the amount of red chili flakes. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.

8. Reuse Dressing: The Thai dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it on other salads or as a marinade for chicken or seafood, maximizing its utility.

9. Variety of Mangoes: Experiment with different types of mangoes, such as Ataulfo or Haden, to discover varying flavors and textures that can enhance your salad.

10. Presentation: Serve the Thai Mango Salad in a large, shallow bowl for an appealing presentation. Garnish with extra cilantro and peanuts for a visually attractive and flavorful dish.

Let's Learn About Mangos

Mangoes are grown in tropical and subtropical climates across the world, with major production in countries like India, Mexico, Thailand, and the Philippines. When harvesting, mangoes are carefully picked by hand to avoid bruising, as they are delicate when ripe. Depending on the region and farming practices, mangoes may be treated with pesticides, so it’s important to wash them thoroughly before use. In terms of sustainability, many growers are moving towards organic farming methods. When buying mangoes, look for organic options to avoid pesticides, or soak non-organic mangoes in a vinegar-water solution (3:1 ratio) for 10 minutes to help remove any residue. Additionally, check for mangoes that are free from blemishes or dark spots, as this indicates ripeness and freshness.