Mango, Avocado, and Tomato Salad with a Citrusy Twist

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining fresh ingredients to create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. Recently, I made a Mango, Avocado, and Tomato Salad with a Citrusy Twist for a family gathering, and it was an absolute hit! The vibrant colors of the ingredients drew everyone in, and the refreshing taste of the salad complemented the warm weather perfectly. My family was raving about how the creamy avocado and sweet mango paired beautifully with the juicy tomatoes, all enhanced by a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet light—ideal for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 large avocado, diced
• 1 large mango, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: Start by dicing the avocado, mango, tomatoes, and onion. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even distribution in the salad.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Combine the salad: In a large bowl, gently toss together the diced avocado, mango, tomatoes, onion, and chopped cilantro.
4. Toss with the dressing: Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Serve immediately: For the freshest flavor, serve right away. However, if you prefer a chilled salad, let it sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 210
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Chilled: Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience.
• On its own: Enjoy it as a light meal or snack.
• As a side: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Tacos: Use it as a topping for tacos or burritos for added flavor and texture.
• With chips: Serve with tortilla chips for a delicious dip alternative.

Additional Tips

1. Choose ripe fruits: Make sure your avocado and mango are ripe for the best flavor and texture.
2. Add spice: For a kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Use lime: Substitute lime juice for lemon for a different citrus flavor.
4. Make ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours ahead but wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the ingredients from getting mushy.
5. Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh mint or basil for a unique twist.

Recipe Variations

• Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple or papaya for a tropical flavor.
• Protein Boost: Include grilled shrimp, chicken, or black beans for added protein.
• Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for crunch.
• Cheesy Addition: Crumble feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy texture.
• Grain Salad: Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Picnics: Pack this salad for a picnic; it holds up well outside.
• Meal Prep: Use it as part of your weekly meal prep for healthy lunches.
• Brunch: Serve it as part of a brunch spread alongside eggs or pastries.
• Potluck: Bring it to potlucks; it’s sure to impress.
• Beach Day: Take it to the beach as a refreshing, nutritious option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the avocado and tomatoes, which can become mushy upon thawing.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this salad in advance?
   Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
2. What can I substitute for avocado?
   You could use silken tofu for creaminess or omit it altogether if you prefer.
3. How long does the salad last in the fridge?
   The salad is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
4. Can I use canned tomatoes?
   Fresh tomatoes are preferred for texture, but canned can work in a pinch.
5. What type of mango is best for this salad?
   Ataulfo (Honey) mangoes are sweet and creamy, making them a great choice.
6. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free!
7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
   While fresh herbs are recommended for flavor, you can use dried herbs but reduce the amount since they are more concentrated.
8. How can I make it spicier?
   Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
9. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or cucumbers would be great additions.
10. Is this salad vegan?
    Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based!

Conclusion

The Mango, Avocado, and Tomato Salad with a Citrusy Twist is a delightful addition to any meal. It embodies the essence of fresh, wholesome ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a party appetizer, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your recipe collection!

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