Mango Cucumber Salad – Cool, Crunchy Bliss
Ingredients:
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1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
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1 cucumber, thinly sliced
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 tbsp lime juice
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1 tbsp honey (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: Chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies and Mango: Peel and dice the mango into small cubes. Slice the cucumber and red onion thinly.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, cucumber, and red onion. Add the chopped cilantro and toss everything together gently.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the mango-cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
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Chill (optional): For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes before serving.
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Optional Add-Ins: If you like a little spice, you can sprinkle some chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Serving Tips:
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Garnish: Garnish with a few more cilantro leaves before serving, if desired.
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Pair with: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a refreshing side for any meal.
Q/A:
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Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and combine them just before serving to prevent the cucumber from getting too soggy. -
Q: Can I substitute the honey?
A: Yes! You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or skip the sweetener entirely if you prefer a more savory version. -
Q: Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?
A: Absolutely! Toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews would add a nice crunch to this salad.
