Mango Avocado Potato Salad
Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes
I love this Mango Avocado Potato Salad because it brings together the creaminess of ripe avocados and the sweet, tropical flavor of mangoes. The recipe balances the textures and flavors perfectly, making it a delightful side dish for any gathering or a refreshing light meal on a warm day. The vibrant colors are visually appealing and inviting, and I appreciate that it's both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, allowing me to whip it up quickly whenever I have a craving for something fresh and delicious.
When I first made this Mango Avocado Potato Salad, I wasn’t sure how the flavors would come together. To my surprise, the combination of sweet mango, creamy avocado, and tender potatoes creates a harmony that’s truly irresistible. I decided to add a touch of lime juice and cilantro, which elevated the dish even more, giving it a fresh kick.
Over the months, I've tweaked the ingredients based on what I had on hand. I’ve discovered that using Yukon gold potatoes adds a buttery texture that pairs exceptionally well with the other ingredients. It’s a go-to recipe for picnics, barbecues, and even casual dinner parties!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy avocado adds a luscious texture to the salad
- Sweet, ripe mango balances the flavors perfectly
- Quick and easy to prepare, great for weeknight meals
- Loaded with nutrients, making it a healthy choice
Choosing the Right Potatoes
For this Mango Avocado Potato Salad, Yukon gold potatoes are highly recommended due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Their golden skin adds a beautiful hue to the dish while keeping a firm texture after cooking. Avoid using waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won't hold their shape as well, leading to a mushy salad. To test for doneness, poke a cube with a fork; it should be tender, but not falling apart.
If you're looking for a shortcut, you can use pre-cooked potatoes available at many grocery stores. Just make sure to cube them and give them a gentle toss with the other ingredients. This can save you about 10-15 minutes of prep time, allowing you to assemble your salad even more quickly.
The Role of Lime Juice
The juice of a fresh lime is essential in this recipe, as it not only adds a zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the mango, but it also prevents the avocado from browning. Lime juice helps maintain the vibrant green color of the avocado, making the salad visually appealing. Make sure to squeeze the lime just before tossing the salad to maximize its freshness and prevent oxidation.
If you're out of limes, fresh lemon juice can be a suitable substitute, although it will bring a slightly different acidity profile. A splash of apple cider vinegar can also work in a pinch, but adjust the amount to avoid overpowering the other flavors. I personally love the hint of citrus that lime contributes, so I recommend sticking with it if possible.
Serving and Storing Tips
Mango Avocado Potato Salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal dish for summer picnics. If preparing ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for optimal freshness, it's best to add the avocado and lime juice just before serving to prevent any browning and ensure a creamy texture.
To give the salad a twist, consider adding diced cucumber or bell peppers for an extra crunch. If you want it to be a full meal, grilled chicken or shrimp can be added to transform it into a hearty dish. This versatility allows you to incorporate various ingredients based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful dish.
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
This combination will create a deliciously fresh and vibrant salad.
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your salad.
Cook the Potatoes
In a pot of salted water, bring the potatoes to a boil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Ingredients
While the potatoes are cooling, dice the avocado and mango, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
Combine and Dress
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled potatoes, avocado, mango, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
Serve
Plate your Mango Avocado Potato Salad and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to use ripe avocados and mangoes for the best flavor and texture.
Variations on the Salad
Consider incorporating different fruits to switch things up. Pineapple, for instance, adds a delightful tartness that pairs well with the creaminess of avocado and sweetness of mango. You might also experiment with adding sliced radishes for a peppery contrast or even some diced jalapeños if you're looking to spice things up. Just be mindful to balance flavors, as too many strong ingredients can overpower the more subtle tastes.
You could also explore using different herbs in place of cilantro. Dill offers a refreshing flavor that would complement the salad nicely for a different twist. If you're not a fan of cilantro's distinct taste, basil can also work well, adding an aromatic freshness that elevates the overall dish.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you find that your potatoes are too mushy after cooking, it likely means they were left in boiling water for too long. Aim for a fork-tender consistency without allowing them to break apart. If this happens, you may want to use the salad as a filling for other dishes, such as pita sandwiches, instead of serving it as a traditional salad.
Another common issue is browning of the avocado. If you're preparing the salad in advance, be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the salad to limit air exposure. This little trick can help maintain the salad's fresh look and flavor for longer. Alternatively, adding a bit more lime juice can also help keep that vibrant green color intact.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it's best to combine them just before serving to prevent browning.
→ What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even black beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Mango Avocado Potato Salad is completely vegan and gluten-free!
→ How long does it last in the fridge?
It can last up to two days in the fridge. However, the avocado may brown slightly.
Mango Avocado Potato Salad
I love this Mango Avocado Potato Salad because it brings together the creaminess of ripe avocados and the sweet, tropical flavor of mangoes. The recipe balances the textures and flavors perfectly, making it a delightful side dish for any gathering or a refreshing light meal on a warm day. The vibrant colors are visually appealing and inviting, and I appreciate that it's both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, allowing me to whip it up quickly whenever I have a craving for something fresh and delicious.
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a pot of salted water, bring the potatoes to a boil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
While the potatoes are cooling, dice the avocado and mango, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled potatoes, avocado, mango, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
Plate your Mango Avocado Potato Salad and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- Make sure to use ripe avocados and mangoes for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g