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 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I always find myself craving vibrant flavors, and this Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad delivers just that! The sweetness of ripe mangoes combined with crunchy veggies creates a refreshing experience that brightens any meal. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch, this recipe is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that invigorate the palate. I love how simple it is to prepare, yet it looks stunning on the table. Join me in exploring this colorful dish that truly showcases the tropical essence of Jamaica.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:22:08.256Z

Creating this Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad was an adventure in flavors and textures. I chose fresh, ripe mangoes paired with crisp bell peppers, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing that truly captures the essence of the tropics. Each bite is packed with sweetness and crunch, and I couldn’t believe how easy the preparation was. It’s a dish that allows the ingredients to shine with minimal fuss.

One thing I learned during this process is the importance of using perfectly ripe mangoes, as they add a natural sweetness that balances the crunchy vegetables. The lime juice dressing not only enhances the flavor but also keeps everything fresh. This salad is a delightful addition to any meal and has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Salad
        Bursting with fresh, tropical flavors
A crunch in every bite with a delightful balance of textures
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using ripe, fresh mangoes is crucial for achieving the best flavor in this salad. The sweetness of perfectly ripened mangoes not only adds natural sweetness but also a rich, fibrous texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchiness of the other vegetables. When selecting your mangoes, look for fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure and has a vibrant skin. Keep in mind that under-ripe mangoes can be too tangy, while overripe ones may become mushy.

Bell peppers contribute a bright pop of color and flavor while enhancing the salad's nutritional profile. The sweetness of the yellow and red peppers will harmonize with the mangoes, creating a delightful balance. For added crunch and freshness, make sure to slice them just before assembling the salad. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to experiment with other crunchy vegetables like jicama or shredded carrots—they will introduce new flavors and textures while keeping the dish vibrant.

Maximizing Flavor with Dressing Techniques

Whisking the lime dressing until emulsified is key for achieving a harmonious blend of flavors. When you combine the lime juice and olive oil, they should transform into a glossy mixture that clings to the salad ingredients, enhancing each bite. If you find the dressing too tangy, adding a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup can help balance the acidity without overpowering the freshness of the salad.

To enhance the flavor further, consider adding a pinch of zest from your lime. This will elevate the dressing with an extra citrus note. If you're looking for a creamier texture, a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt can be whisked into the dressing, turning it into a luscious, tangy sauce that perfectly coats the salad. Just be cautious to keep the yogurt in moderation so it doesn’t dominate the tropical essence of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a refreshing salad:

Ingredients

2 ripe mangoes, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the fresh ingredients together for a deliciously vibrant salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced mangoes, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Enjoy your fresh and flavorful salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Mango Vegetable Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but can also be a versatile addition to your meal planning. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors. Alternatively, serve it as a light lunch, perhaps with a side of whole grain bread or avocado toast to make it more substantial.

For summer gatherings, you can transform this salad into a buffet-style centerpiece. Just double the recipe and serve it in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves. To keep it looking fresh, add a splash of lime juice just before serving to prevent the mangoes from browning and to maintain that vibrant visual appeal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this salad in advance, chop all the veggies and mangoes a few hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables. Combining the ingredients too early can lead to sogginess, which detracts from the salad's delightful textures.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but remember that the salad will lose some of its crunchy texture over time. I recommend enjoying it cold as a refreshing side dish or as a topping for tacos or grain bowls. If you're planning to eat it later, consider adding more fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime just before serving to revive the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, radishes, or even avocados for creaminess.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! This salad is naturally vegan and packed with wholesome ingredients.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may soften, but it will still be delicious!