Juicy and refreshing, Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado is the perfect dish for summer gatherings. This vibrant salad combines sweet mangoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy avocados, all tossed on a bed of peppery arugula. Drizzled with a zesty Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette, this salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal. Its colorful presentation makes it an attractive addition to any table.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Fresh Produce
- For the Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
- How to Make Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- How to Serve Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- As a Standalone Lunch
- With Grilled Chicken
- On Tacos
- As a Side Dish
- At Summer Picnics
- How to Perfect Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Best Side Dishes for Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Reheating Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- What other fruits can I add to my Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado?
- Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
- How should I serve this salad?
- Can I use different greens instead of arugula?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is a time-saver for busy schedules.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from mangoes, avocados, and blueberries, it’s a healthy choice.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, great for any occasion from casual lunches to festive dinners.
- Flavorful Dressing: The Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette adds a unique twist that enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and appetizing.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up this delightful salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Jar or bowl for mixing dressing
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Salad bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Jar or bowl for mixing dressing: Ideal for combining ingredients efficiently without splatter.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for fruits and vegetables, making preparation easier and faster.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients and keeps your kitchen tidy.
Ingredients
For this delicious Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado, gather the following ingredients:
Fresh Produce
- 1 champagne mango, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 Persian cucumber, diced
- ¼ red onion, minced and let sit for 15 minutes
- 3 cups arugula
- 1 avocado, chopped
- ½ cup blueberries
- ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup cilantro
For the Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- A pinch of sea salt
- A dash of freshly cracked black pepper
How to Make Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small jar or bowl:
1. Whisk together all the vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl:
1. Add the diced mango, cucumber, minced onion, arugula, chopped avocado, blueberries, walnuts, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the top.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Enjoy your vibrant Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado as a refreshing addition to any meal!
How to Serve Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a light lunch or an accompaniment to dinner, this salad brings a burst of flavors and freshness.
As a Standalone Lunch
- This salad makes for a refreshing lunch option, perfect for warm days. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with whole grain bread for added sustenance.
With Grilled Chicken
- Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken to create a balanced meal. The sweetness of the mango and blueberries complements the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.
On Tacos
- Use this salad as a topping for tacos. Its crunchy cucumbers and creamy avocado elevate the texture and taste of soft or hard-shell tacos.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with any main course. The lightness of this salad balances richer dishes like roasted meats or hearty casseroles.
At Summer Picnics
- Bring this salad to your next picnic. It’s easy to transport and will impress your friends with its colorful presentation and delicious flavor.
How to Perfect Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
To ensure your Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado is at its best, consider these helpful tips:
- Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh produce for vibrant flavors. Ripe mangoes and firm cucumbers are crucial for this recipe.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavors. It also makes it more refreshing, especially on hot days.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Feel free to adjust lime juice or maple syrup based on your personal preference.
- Add crunch: Consider adding other nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
- Customize toppings: Try adding feta cheese or chickpeas for added protein if desired. This variation keeps your meals exciting.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
-
Grilled Vegetables
A mix of seasonal veggies grilled to perfection adds smokiness that complements the freshness of the salad. -
Quinoa Pilaf
A nutty quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a filling option that matches well with fruity salads. -
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of blueberries in the salad. -
Corn on the Cob
Freshly grilled corn on the cob adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs nicely with mango flavors. -
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a hearty dish that works great alongside this salad. -
Lentil Soup
A warm lentil soup serves as a comforting side that balances out the coolness of the salad, making for an enjoyable meal combination. -
Garlic Bread
Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! Its savory flavor contrasts well with fruity elements while providing satisfying crunchiness. -
Caprese Skewers
Easy-to-make Caprese skewers featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes add Italian flair to your meal while staying light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating a delicious Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Not letting the onion sit: Failing to mince and let the red onion sit for 15 minutes can result in a sharper taste. This step helps mellow the flavor, making it more enjoyable.
- Skipping the vinaigrette: Neglecting the Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette can lead to a bland salad. Always dress your salad just before serving for maximum flavor.
- Using unripe mango: Choosing a mango that isn’t ripe will affect the sweetness of your salad. Make sure to select a ripe champagne mango for the best taste.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much vinaigrette can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balanced flavor.
- Not balancing flavors: Ignoring the balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements can lead to an unappealing dish. Ensure you have a good mix of all textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezing Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as ingredients like avocado and cucumber do not freeze well.
- Freshness is key, so prepare only what you’ll eat within a few days.
Reheating Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Oven: Not ideal for salads; reheating may wilt greens.
- Microwave: Use sparingly; heat on low power just until warm. Avoid cooking.
- Stovetop: Not recommended; fresh salads are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead but dress it right before serving for optimal freshness.
What other fruits can I add to my Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado?
You could try adding strawberries, kiwi, or even peaches for added sweetness.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado is completely plant-based.
How should I serve this salad?
Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or light meal during hot summer days.
Can I use different greens instead of arugula?
Yes, feel free to substitute arugula with spinach or mixed greens based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
The Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines sweet fruits and crunchy vegetables. Its versatility allows for various customizations—add nuts or swap out greens as desired. Enjoy this healthy salad as a side or light meal!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Mango Cucumber Salad with Blueberry and Avocado is a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This colorful salad combines sweet mangoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy avocados, and juicy blueberries on a bed of peppery arugula. Finished with a zesty Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal, this salad offers versatility for any occasion. Whip it up in just 10 minutes for a healthy, delicious addition to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 champagne mango
- 1 Persian cucumber
- ¼ red onion
- 3 cups arugula
- 1 avocado
- ½ cup blueberries
- ¼ cup walnuts
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette by whisking together lime juice, maple syrup, olive oil, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper in a jar or bowl until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, combine diced mango, cucumber, minced onion (let sit for 15 minutes), arugula, chopped avocado, blueberries, walnuts, and cilantro.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
