The soft, sun-kissed mangoes in my kitchen remind me that summer is lurking around the corner. I can almost taste the warm breeze and hear the vibrant chatter of backyard barbecues. That’s why I’m excited to share my Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing—a quick 15-minute delight that transforms ordinary salads into tropical feasts. With its low-carb, gluten-free versatility, this dressing not only enhances your greens but also works beautifully as a marinade for grilled shrimp! The perfect harmony of sweet mango, zesty lime, and a kick of chili brings brightness to every bite, making it a refreshing addition to your culinary repertoire. Ready to learn how to whip up this sunshine in a jar? Let’s dive in!
Why is this Mango Dressing a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor Fusion: This Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing combines ripe mango with zesty lime and mild chili for an unforgettable taste.
Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a dressing that’s perfect for any meal or snack.
Versatile Use: Drizzle it on salads, grilled chicken, or seafood for a refreshing twist or use it as a marinade for grilled shrimp, just like with my Tzatziki Chicken Salad.
Diet-Friendly Option: Low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Vibrant Presentation: Its bright orange hue not only looks inviting but also indicates the fresh, uplifting flavors you can expect. Enjoy a taste of summer any time of year!
Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing
• Get ready to flavor up your salads!
For the Dressing
- Ripe Mango – Use a large, ripe mango for the sweetest flavor and vibrant color.
- Fresh Lime Juice – About 2 medium limes provide zesty acidity and balance to the sweetness.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed adds an extra layer of citrus sweetness; it’s truly worth it!
- Honey – This enhances the sweetness; substitute with agave for a vegan option if needed.
- Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy tone; feel free to omit if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic amplifies depth; it’s essential for that savory kick in the dressing.
- Salt – A must for elevating all the flavors; adjust to your taste!
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; white pepper works too if you want a milder flavor.
- Chili Pepper (Fresno or Jalapeño) – Adjust the quantity for your preferred heat level, from mild to spicy!
- Fresh Cilantro – This herb brings a fresh burst; swap with parsley if you like a milder taste.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality oil helps emulsify this Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing for a creamy texture.
For Garnish
- Fresh Cilantro (optional) – A sprinkle on top adds a vibrant touch and extra flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing
Step 1: Blend Base
In a blender, combine the ripe mango, fresh lime juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, honey, ground cumin, minced garlic, and salt. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. You should see a vibrant orange hue that promises delicious flavor in your Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing.
Step 2: Emulsify
Transfer the blended mango mixture into a medium-sized glass jar. While whisking continuously with a fork or whisk, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Keep stirring for about 2 minutes until the dressing is well-combined and emulsified, achieving a silky texture that will elevate your salads to new heights.
Step 3: Finish Dressing
Add the chopped chili pepper, fresh cilantro, and freshly ground black pepper to the jar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste your Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing and adjust the salt as needed to suit your preference. The dressing should embody a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy.
Step 4: Store
Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and place it in the refrigerator. Your Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing will stay fresh for up to one week. Remember to shake the jar well before each use to reincorporate any separated ingredients for a consistent flavor and texture every time you drizzle it on your favorite dishes.
What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing
Elevate your meal with vibrant flavors that dance on your palate and fresh ingredients that awaken your senses.
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Mixed Greens: Toss this dressing over a blend of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for a refreshing salad that bursts with flavor.
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Grilled Chicken: Drizzle it on grilled chicken breasts to infuse a tropical sweetness that complements the savory char perfectly.
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Seared Shrimp: Use it as a marinade for shrimp, allowing the sweet and spicy notes to enhance the seafood’s natural flavors.
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Avocado Slices: Pair it with creamy avocado for added texture and richness—making every bite a delight.
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Crisp Vegetables: Serve alongside crunchy cucumber and bell pepper sticks for a colorful, healthy snacking option that pairs beautifully with the dressing.
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Coconut Rice: Complete your meal with a side of coconut-infused rice; its creaminess matches perfectly with the tangy dressing, creating a tropical experience.
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Fresh Salsa: Balance the sweetness of the dressing with a chunky mango or pineapple salsa for a layered, exciting flavor profile.
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Chilled White Wine: Sip on a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio; the acidity and fruitiness of the wine complement the tropical notes of the dressing beautifully.
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Fruit Salad: Round out your meal with a refreshing fruit salad—think melons, berries, and citrus—that echoes the tropical vibes and provides a perfect ending.
Expert Tips for Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing
- Choose Ripe Mangoes: Ensure the mango is perfectly ripe for the best sweetness. A hard mango won’t give that luscious flavor you desire.
- Control the Heat: Start with a small amount of chili pepper and taste your dressing. You can always add more for a fiery kick, but removing heat is trickier!
- Emulsification Secrets: Drizzle the olive oil slowly while whisking continuously for a smooth emulsion. If the dressing separates later, simply shake it well before using.
- Adapt for Diets: Remember, this Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing is low-carb and gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for various diets without sacrificing flavor.
- Storage Reminder: Your dressing can last up to a week in the fridge, but always give it a good shake before each use to mix the flavors perfectly!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing
Fridge: Store the Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use to recombine ingredients.
Freezer: If you wish to keep it for longer, transfer the dressing into ice cube trays. Freeze until solid, then store cubes in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To use frozen dressing cubes, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a short period, then shake or stir well before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can blend the base ingredients (mango, lime juice, orange juice, honey, cumin, garlic, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in a jar in your refrigerator to maintain freshness. Be sure to keep the olive oil separate until you’re ready to emulsify for the best texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply whisk in the olive oil while stirring continuously, then mix in the chopped chili and cilantro. This method ensures that you’ll have a delicious, vibrant dressing ready for your salads or as a marinade, all with minimal effort!
Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this dressing in delightful ways!
- Vegan Substitute: Replace honey with maple syrup for a delicious vegan version.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with other citrus juices, like grapefruit or tangerine, for a unique flavor.
- Herbal Boost: Swap fresh cilantro for mint or basil to add an aromatic dimension to the dressing.
- Heat Level: Adjust the heat by using different chili types; try serrano for more spice or bell pepper for milder dressing.
- Creamy Addition: For a richer texture, blend in a spoonful of tahini or avocado to create a creamy dressing.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a small amount of toasted sesame oil for a nutty twist that’s absolutely sensational.
- Tropical Essence: Incorporate fresh pineapple or papaya for an added fruity layer that complements the mango beautifully.
- Sweet Variation: If you love a sweeter dressing, mix in a bit of coconut sugar for a tropical depth, pairing perfectly with grilled shrimp like in my Spicy Korean Ramen.
Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ripe mangoes?
Absolutely! When selecting a ripe mango, look for a fruit that gives slightly when gently squeezed and has a sweet aroma at the stem end. The skin is often slightly golden or red, but ignore the color and focus on feel and smell for the best sweetness.
How long can I store the dressing in the fridge?
Your Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to store it in a glass jar with a tight lid. Remember to shake well before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time!
Can I freeze the mango dressing for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the dressing into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag to keep them for up to 3 months. For thawing, simply leave a cube in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a little while before using.
What can I do if my dressing is too spicy?
If your Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing turns out spicier than expected, you can balance the heat by adding more ripe mango or a touch of honey to sweeten it. Alternatively, blending in some additional olive oil will dilute the spice level without compromising the flavor!
Is this dressing suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This dressing is low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it an excellent choice for various dietary needs. For those concerned about sugar, you can use agave syrup in place of honey to keep it vegan-friendly. Always be mindful of personal preferences when it comes to the ingredients!
Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Yes! This Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing doubles as a flavorful marinade for grilled shrimp or chicken. Just let the protein marinate for up to 30 minutes—no longer—because the acidity of the lime juice can start to cook the meat. Enjoy the added flavor on your barbecue!
Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing for a Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine the ripe mango, fresh lime juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, honey, ground cumin, minced garlic, and salt. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture into a jar. While whisking, drizzle in the olive oil until emulsified, achieving a silky texture.
- Add chopped chili pepper, cilantro, and black pepper. Stir to combine and adjust salt as desired.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate for up to a week. Shake well before each use.
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