Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad

Name: Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe mangoes, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love the refreshing flavors of this Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad! The combination of ripe mango, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime dressing creates a vibrant dish that's perfect for any occasion. I especially enjoy serving it during summer barbecues or as a light lunch. It's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The burst of sweetness from the mango complements the crunchiness of fresh veggies beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. Give this recipe a try, and you'll see why I can't get enough of it!

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:31:07.870Z

When I first made Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad, it was an impromptu decision during a hot summer day. I wanted something light and refreshing, and the idea of mixing tropical flavors with my favorite vegetables was irresistible. As I chopped and mixed, the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of ripened mangoes that instantly transported me to the Caribbean.

What I love about this salad is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it to include any of your favorite vegetables or herbs. The addition of lime juice adds that perfect zing, balancing the sweetness of the mango and enhancing the overall experience. Trust me, once you try it, you'll find yourself making it over and over again!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that refresh your palate
Perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess
Versatile recipe that adapts to your tastes

      

Choosing the Right Mango

Selecting the perfect mango is crucial for this salad's flavor. Look for ripe mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. They should be aromatic, with a golden hue. Varieties like Haden or Tommy Atkins offer a fantastic sweetness and texture. If you can only find slightly unripe mangoes, allow them to ripen at room temperature for a few days before using them in your salad.

When you dice the mangoes, aim for bite-sized pieces that are not too large; this ensures each mouthful brings a balanced mix of sweetness and the other vegetable flavors. The vibrant color of ripe mangoes not only adds a visual appeal but also enhances the salad's overall flavor profile, creating a delightful contrast with the greens and reds of other ingredients.

Balancing Flavors in the Dressing

The dressing is where your salad gets its zesty kick, balancing the sweetness of the mango with lime's tanginess. Freshly squeezed lime juice is preferable, as it delivers a brighter flavor than bottled varieties. Additionally, you can adjust the honey based on your preference; if your mangoes are particularly sweet, feel free to reduce the amount for a more balanced dressing.

When whisking the dressing, aim for a smooth consistency that lightly coats the back of a spoon. If the mixture appears too thick, a splash of cold water can help achieve that desired drizzle. For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an exciting kick that complements the sweetness of the mango.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This salad is versatile enough to serve on its own or as a side dish at barbecues and gatherings. Consider topping it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, or serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. The coolness of the salad provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of richer barbecue fare.

If you want to make this salad ahead of time, prepare the ingredients and dressing separately, and combine them just before serving. This ensures the vegetables stay crisp rather than becoming soggy. For longer storage, you can keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but it's best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad irresistible:

Salad Ingredients

2 ripe mangoes, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all these colorful ingredients for an eye-catching and flavorful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delightful salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the mangoes and chopping the vegetables. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even mixing. This will give your salad a beautiful look and make it easier to enjoy each bite.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust sweetness and seasoning to your taste. This dressing will bring everything together and add a refreshing tang.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped vegetables, and dressing. Toss gently to coat. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your salad as a side dish or a light main course!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to this salad. It's a fantastic way to make it more filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the vegetable components based on what you have on hand. For example, bell peppers can be substituted with diced zucchini or shredded carrots for added crunch and color. If cilantro isn't your favorite, chopped mint or basil can provide a different and refreshing twist that complements the mango wonderfully.

For a vegan option, replace honey with agave nectar or maple syrup; both will maintain the sweetness without altering the overall flavor profile of the dressing. This way, everyone can enjoy this vibrant dish regardless of dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with salads is that the dressing can sometimes overpower other flavors. If you find the salad too tangy or sweet, try adding a bit more diced cucumber or red onion to balance the flavors. These ingredients will absorb some of the dressing while adding their own freshness and crunch.

If your mangoes are too ripe and mushy, wild sweetness may overshadow the texture in the salad. To counter this, add more crisp vegetables or some chopped nuts for crunch. This will not only enhance the texture but also introduce a nice contrast to the sweetness of the mango.

Make-Ahead Tips

To optimize the freshness of the Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad when preparing ahead of time, pre-chop your vegetables up to a day in advance and store them in separate containers in the fridge. This keeps them crunchy and vibrant. The same applies to mango; cut it just before serving to prevent browning.

If you’re making this salad for a gathering, consider making extra dressing to allow guests to add more as they wish. This also helps manage differing taste preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys the vibrant and flavorful experience of this tropical salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen mangoes?

Yes, frozen mangoes can be used, but fresh ones are recommended for better texture and flavor.

→ How long can I store this salad?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even avocados to personalize the salad to your taste!

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.