Cool Jamaican Mango Salad

Name: Cool Jamaican Mango Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe mangoes, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional); Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I absolutely love making this Cool Jamaican Mango Salad during the warm months. It's such a refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with a hint of lime and the crunch of fresh vegetables. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that transports me straight to the Caribbean. The vibrant colors and tropical essence make it perfect for gatherings or a light meal at home. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to whip up, so you can enjoy it any time you crave something bright and zesty!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:37:27.208Z

Making this salad reminds me of a warm summer day spent at the beach. I tried using different varieties of mangoes, and I've found that the sweeter, more fibrous ones add a wonderful texture and flavor that just can't be beat. I also experimented with adding jalapeños for a little kick, and it turned out to be a fantastic twist!

When preparing the salad, I like to make sure my ingredients are as fresh as possible. Buying produce from a local market always enhances the taste. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving not only brightens the salad but also keeps the colors vibrant, which is essential for presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Sweet and tangy flavor explosion
Colorful presentation that delights the eyes
Perfect for picnics or summer barbecues

      

Choosing the Perfect Mangoes

When selecting mangoes for this salad, look for ripe ones that yield slightly to pressure. They should be fragrant and have a vibrant skin color. If all you can find are firm mangoes, let them ripen at room temperature for a few days. This step is crucial, as the sweet, juicy nature of ripe mangoes enhances the overall flavor of the salad, making each bite refreshing and delightful.

If you find yourself without ripe mangoes, consider using ripe avocados as a substitute for a creamier texture. While it will change the flavor profile, the creamy and buttery nature of avocados can be appealing in a salad. However, you may want to adjust the lime dressing slightly to maintain that zesty punch.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize this salad based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Adding diced avocado can impart a rich creaminess, while including fresh corn adds a sweet crunch. For an extra kick, consider including chopped fresh mint or a splash of coconut milk. These variations not only enhance flavor but also increase the dish's visual appeal, creating a tropical feast for the eyes.

If you're looking to make this salad heartier, you can add cooked quinoa or black beans, which provide protein and elevate the dish to a satisfying meal. Just remember to adjust the dressing quantity to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 ripe mangoes, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)

For the Dressing

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

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and dicing all the vegetables and mangoes. Ensure they are uniform in size for even distribution and presentation.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red bell pepper, onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. If using jalapeño, add it now.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. Make sure all ingredients are coated evenly.

Serve

Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors meld together, then serve promptly.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the salad marinate for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the ingredients to soak up the dressing beautifully.

Storage Tips

This Cool Jamaican Mango Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To ensure the best texture, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy. If you have leftovers, try using them as a topping for grilled chicken or fish for a flavorful boost to your meal.

If you find the salad has lost some of its freshness after storage, revitalize it with a squeeze of lime juice and a touch more olive oil. This quick fix can help restore the bright, zesty flavors that are signature to this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant salad makes a delightful side dish, especially alongside grilled meats or fish. Its freshness complements rich dishes well, while the bright colors make it visually appealing on any table. For a complete meal, pair it with a light protein source, such as grilled shrimp or tofu, and some crusty bread or rice.

For a fun twist on serving, try plating the salad in avocado halves or hollowed-out mango skins for a tropical presentation that will wow your guests. It creates a stunning centerpiece that captures the essence of the dish while making serving effortless.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can try adding pineapple or avocado for additional flavor and texture.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the freshness is best if consumed on the same day.