This Fresh and Tangy Thai Mango Salad is a burst of flavors! With juicy mangoes, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a warm day.
You can’t help but smile when you take a bite—it’s like a party in your mouth! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken for a delicious meal.
This salad is quick and easy to whip up, making it a go-to for me. Plus, it’s a great way to use ripe mangoes when they’re in season. Enjoy the freshness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mangoes: Use ripe green mangoes for their tartness and crunch. If green mangoes are hard to find, you can use slightly underripe yellow mangoes for a sweeter taste.
Carrot: Julienned carrots add a nice crunch. If you’re looking for a twist, you could use shredded cabbage or even shredded Brussels sprouts.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a mild, sweet flavor. A sweet onion or green onions work well if red onion isn’t available.
Fish Sauce: This adds a unique umami flavor, but if you’re vegetarian, try using soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.
Palm Sugar: This has a rich caramel flavor. Brown sugar or coconut sugar are great substitutes if you can’t find palm sugar.
How Can I Get the Perfect Julienned Vegetables?
Julienning may seem tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here’s a simple way to get those uniform strips:
- First, peel your ingredients (mango and carrot).
- Cut them into manageable lengths, about 2-3 inches long.
- Slice them lengthwise into thin planks, then stack a few planks and cut them into thin strips.
Taking your time with this step ensures all the veggies mix evenly with the dressing, enhancing each bite’s flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. However, keep in mind that the salad is best eaten fresh, as the mangoes can get mushy when they sit in the dressing. If you’re prepping ahead, consider keeping the dressing separate and mixing just before serving.
Fresh and Tangy Thai Mango Salad
Ingredients:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 ripe green mangoes, peeled and julienned
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and julienned
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Optional Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon toasted shredded coconut
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to throw together and perfect for a fast, fresh side dish or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir well until the sugar fully dissolves. Set this aside while you prepare the salad.
2. Combine Fresh Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the julienned mangoes and carrots, sliced red onion, chopped chilies, and fresh cilantro. This colorful mix is sure to brighten your day!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the fresh ingredients and gently toss everything together until well combined. Make sure all the veggies are coated with that delicious dressing!
4. Add Crunchy Peanuts:
Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top of the salad, adding a lovely crunch to each bite.
5. Optional Garnish:
If you like, add a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve this salad immediately for the best taste and texture. Enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer or a perfect side dish with your favorite grilled proteins. You’re going to love the vibrant flavors!
Enjoy your fresh and tangy Thai mango salad!
FAQ for Fresh and Tangy Thai Mango Salad
Can I Use Ripe Mangoes Instead of Green Mangoes?
Yes, you can use ripe mangoes, but keep in mind that they will add more sweetness to the salad. For a balanced flavor, just reduce the amount of palm sugar in the dressing.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add more fresh red chilies or even a dash of chili flakes. You can also include a bit of sriracha in the dressing for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Due to the nature of the ingredients, the salad is best when eaten fresh, as the mango may become mushy if left too long in the dressing.
