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Mango Lime Avocado Salad

Featured in Healthy Eating.

Mango Lime Avocado Salad combines creamy avocado and sweet mango with a pop of citrus zest. Cherry tomatoes and red onion add crunch, with optional jalapeño for heat. The salty hit of crumbled cheese balances every bite, while the lime-based dressing ties everything together. Ideal for picnics, quick lunches, or festive spreads, this light and vibrant dish is easy to prep. Make it fresh to enjoy its tropical flavors at their best.
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Updated on Thu, 01 May 2025 22:00:32 GMT
Tropical mango avocado mix with lime for a fresh, chilled dish. Pin it
Tropical mango avocado mix with lime for a fresh, chilled dish. | tasteofmoms.com

When creamy avocado meets sweet, ripe mango, you get pure magic in a bowl. This sun-kissed combo brings to mind lazy days at seaside cafes where fresh, bright flavors take center stage. I first stumbled upon this pairing while wandering through coastal Mexican towns, and I've tweaked this salad ever since to nail that dreamy balance of smooth and zingy, sweet and tart. Now it's my favorite dish for everything from quick lunches to fancy get-togethers.

I made this for Sunday lunch with the family last week, and my picky nephew who runs from anything green couldn't help coming back for more. What's my trick? Getting the ripeness just right and using a dressing that makes everything sing together.

Key Ingredients and Shopping Advice

  • Mangoes: Go for ones that feel slightly soft when gently squeezed and smell sweet near the stem. Ataulfo mangoes work best for me because they're extra creamy and sugary.
  • Avocados: Pick fruits that give a little when pressed but don't feel mushy. Remember you might need to buy them a few days early to let them ripen.
  • Red Onion: Look for tight, heavy bulbs with dry outer layers. The smaller ones usually taste sweeter and work better raw.
  • Limes: Choose ones that feel surprisingly heavy - they'll give you more juice. A bit of spring in the skin means they're ready to use.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Grab bunches that look vibrant green without yellow spots. Don't toss the stems - they pack tons of flavor too.
Luscious avocado mango salad drizzled with zesty lime dressing. Pin it
Luscious avocado mango salad drizzled with zesty lime dressing. | tasteofmoms.com

Simple Preparation Guide

Cutting Your Mango:
Make grid-like cuts through the fruit while it's still in the skin, but don't slice all the way through. Push the skin inward to pop up the cubes, then cut them out, saving any juice that drips out for your dressing.
Handling Avocados:
Cut and remove the pits right before you're ready to mix everything. Score the flesh in cubes and scoop them out with a spoon to keep their shape. Splash some lime juice on them right away to keep them fresh.
Mixing The Dressing:
Stir together fresh lime juice, grated zest, olive oil, honey, and finely chopped garlic. Keep whisking until everything blends together smoothly. Taste and tweak - it should taste bright but not overwhelming.
Putting It Together:
Stack the ingredients instead of tossing them to protect the soft avocado. Start with onions and tomatoes on the bottom, add mango next, and top with avocado chunks. Pour the dressing over everything just moments before you eat.

I grew up in a house where fresh food was everything, and I learned early on that sometimes the simplest combo creates the most unforgettable meals. There's nothing better than using mango's natural sweetness to balance out rich, buttery avocado.

Prep Work Options

While this salad tastes best when freshly made, you can get a head start by chopping the onions and making the dressing beforehand. Just store everything separately and throw it all together at the last minute for the freshest results.

Switch-ups For Different Seasons

When mangoes aren't great in winter, try using juicy pears or orange segments instead. The key is keeping that sweet-creamy balance that makes everyone come back for seconds.

Tasty Companions

This adaptable salad works with so many foods. Try it next to spicy grilled fish or juicy chicken breasts where its cool freshness balances the heat perfectly.

After making this salad countless times, I've found that success comes down to two things: using ingredients at their peak ripeness and handling them with care. When everything's just right, you end up with something that feels fancy but comes together easily, making it perfect for quick lunches or special dinners alike.

Colorful avocado mango salad with tangy dressing, a refreshing healthy option. Pin it
Colorful avocado mango salad with tangy dressing, a refreshing healthy option. | tasteofmoms.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s the best way to pick ripe mangoes?
Look for ones that give slightly when pressed and smell sweet around the stem. Ataulfo and Tommy Atkins types are great options.
→ Can I prep it in advance?
You can make the lime dressing and cut up ingredients a few hours ahead, but it’s tastiest fresh.
→ How can I stop the avocados from turning brown?
The lime juice slows browning down, but wait to add diced avocado until just before you eat.
→ Is it supposed to be spicy?
That’s up to you! Adding or skipping the jalapeño depends on how much kick you’re in the mood for.
→ What’s a good alternate for the cheese?
Leave it out entirely, or swap in queso fresco for a dairy-free alternative.

Mango Lime Avocado

Brighten your plate with a mix of juicy mango, smooth avocado, and a citrusy lime dressing – great for warm weather dining.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Ashley

Category: Healthy Eating

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Island Blend

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Veggie & Fruit Mix

01 2 avocados, diced into chunks (make sure they're just firm enough)
02 2 sweet yellow mangoes, peeled and cut into small cubes
03 1 cup ripe cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
04 1 red onion, thinly shaved into slices
05 1 small jalapeño, finely sliced (only add if you like some heat!)
06 1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese (skip if you want dairy-free)
07 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

→ Lime Dressing

08 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime
09 1 tablespoon finely grated lime peel (zest)
10 1 teaspoon honey (skip for a tangier finish)
11 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
12 1 clove fresh garlic, minced up small
13 Salt and pepper—adjust for how you like it!

Instructions

Step 01

Cut the mangoes into handy small cubes and dice up your avocados. Slice the red onion thin, halve your little tomatoes, and chop up the cilantro. Want to add some kick? Slice the jalapeño too.

Step 02

Grab a small bowl and whisk together your lime juice, a bit of zest, olive oil, and honey if you're using it. Toss in the minced garlic, then sprinkle in some salt and pepper to your taste. Keep stirring until it’s silky smooth.

Step 03

Toss everything—avocado, mango, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro—into a broad bowl. Pour the lime dressing over the mix and toss it carefully, so the avocados stay chunky and intact.

Step 04

Sprinkle cheese over the top if that's your thing. Add extra cilantro or jalapeño if you like. For extra zing, throw some lime wedges on the side before serving.

Notes

  1. This bright and flavorful salad brings together creamy avocados, juicy mangoes, and a punch of lime. Perfect for hot days or when you'd like something light as a side.
  2. Want to mix it up? Use Ataulfo mangoes for their buttery texture or choose Tommy Atkins mangoes for a firmer bite!

Tools You'll Need

  • A deep bowl for mixing
  • Small bowl or blender to make the dressing
  • Sharp kitchen knife and sturdy cutting board
  • A zester or mini grater for lime zest

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • If you're adding cotija or feta cheese, it'll contain dairy.