Delicious Thai Mango Salad Recipe in Just 20 Minutes

When the weather warms up, nothing beats a fresh, vibrant salad that you can whip up quickly. This Thai mango salad is a perfect choice for those days. It combines crisp vegetables, sweet mango, and a tangy lime and soy sauce dressing that refreshes your palate. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish whether you serve it as a light lunch or a side for dinner.

Ingredients You Will Need

This salad uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together quickly:

• 1 cucumber, chopped into thin sticks

• 2 carrots, peeled into thin strips

• 1 ISC mango, chopped into smaller pieces

• 1 handful of cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 handful of cashews

• 1 handful of fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped

• A few leaves of fresh mint

  
  

For the Dressing

• 2 spoons of soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon of coconut sugar

• 1 clove of garlic, crushed

• ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper

• Juice of 1 lime

A colorful Thai mango salad ready to serve

How to Prepare the Salad

The preparation is straightforward and takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.

1. Make the dressing: Combine soy sauce, coconut sugar, crushed garlic, crushed red pepper, and lime juice in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients blend well. Set aside to let the flavors develop.

   
   

2. Prepare the vegetables and fruit: Chop the cucumber into thin sticks and peel the carrots into thin strips using a vegetable peeler. Cut the mango into bite-sized pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the parsley and pick a few fresh mint leaves.

   
   

3. Combine everything: Place the chopped vegetables, mango, and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

   
   

4. Add the finishing touches: Sprinkle the cashews on top and garnish with the chopped parsley and mint leaves.

   
   

Tips for the Best Thai Mango Salad

• Choose the right mango: Look for a mango that is ripe but still firm. It should have a sweet aroma and a slight give when pressed gently. This ensures the mango pieces hold their shape and add a juicy sweetness.

  
  

• Balance the flavors: The dressing is key to this salad. Adjust the lime juice or coconut sugar to suit your taste. If you prefer it spicier, add a little more crushed red pepper.

  
  

• Add protein for a fuller meal: For a more substantial dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. These proteins pair well with the fresh flavors of the salad.

  
  

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint add brightness and aroma. Avoid dried herbs as they won’t provide the same fresh taste.

  
  

Why This Salad Works So Well

This Thai mango salad is a great example of how simple ingredients can create a dish full of flavor and texture. The crisp cucumber and carrots provide crunch, while the mango adds sweetness. Cherry tomatoes bring juiciness, and cashews add a satisfying nutty crunch. The dressing ties everything together with a balance of salty, sweet, sour, and spicy notes.

It’s also a versatile dish that fits many occasions. Serve it as a refreshing side with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own for a light, healthy meal. The quick preparation time makes it ideal for busy days when you want something fresh without spending too long in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the salad chilled for an extra refreshing experience on hot days.

• Pair it with jasmine rice or sticky rice to complement the Thai flavors.

• Add a side of spring rolls or grilled satay for a complete Thai-inspired meal.

  
  

This salad also travels well, making it a great option for picnics or packed lunches. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.