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This sweet and spicy mango salad dressing is a vibrant addition to your meals, transforming simple greens or grilled proteins into a flavor-packed dish. Bright mango sweetness combines with zesty citrus and a gentle kick from chili for a dressing that is both refreshing and exciting. It’s a fantastic way to liven up lunches or weeknight dinners with minimal effort.
This dressing quickly became a favorite in my house after I drizzled it over grilled shrimp one summer evening. Since then, it’s been a go-to when I want a quick flavorful boost.
Gather Your Ingredients
- One large ripe mango: peeled pitted and roughly chopped — provides sweetness and creamy texture choose mangoes that feel heavy and emit a fragrant aroma
- Quarter cup fresh lime juice: adds bright acidity fresh juice is best as bottled tends to be bitter
- Quarter cup fresh orange juice: for natural sweetness and balance
- Two tablespoons honey: to enhance the mango’s sweetness without overwhelming
- Half teaspoon cumin: imparts earthy warmth freshly ground works wonders
- One clove garlic: adds a subtle pungency fresh garlic is crucial for full flavor
- Half teaspoon salt: essential to balance and bring out all flavors
- One third cup extra virgin olive oil: creates smoothness and richness pick a good quality fruity oil
- One tablespoon finely chopped medium heat chili pepper such as Fresno or jalapeño: adds a mild spicy kick without overpowering the sweet
- Two tablespoons finely chopped cilantro: for fresh herbal notes
- Quarter teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: provides a gentle peppery bite
How to Make It
- Spoon the Base Ingredients:
- Combine mango lime juice orange juice honey cumin garlic and salt in the blender container. Puree on medium speed until smooth and creamy. This forms the vibrant and tangy base of the dressing.
- Slowly Incorporate Olive Oil:
- Transfer the mango puree into a medium-size jar. While stirring continuously with a fork or small whisk pour the extra virgin olive oil in a slow steady stream. This helps emulsify the dressing creating a velvety texture.
- Add Fresh Heat and Herbs:
- Stir in the finely chopped chili pepper cilantro and ground black pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust salt if needed to ensure a perfect balance of sweet spicy and savory flavors.
- Store Properly for Freshness:
- Keep the dressing refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to one week. Always shake well before use as separation naturally occurs over time.
My favorite part of this recipe is the fresh mango which provides a tropical sweetness like sunshine in a jar. I remember making a big batch for a summer barbecue where it was a hit drizzled on grilled chicken. Everyone kept asking for the recipe which made me proud of this simple yet delicious dressing.
Flavor Boosters
Store the dressing in a sealed glass jar inside the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. Shake well before every use to redistribute ingredients. It will keep well for up to a week but best enjoyed within four to five days when the flavors are brightest.
Serving Suggestions
This dressing is perfect tossed with mixed greens avocado and toasted nuts for a quick salad. It also makes a wonderful glaze for pan-seared salmon shrimp or grilled chicken adding a fruity spicy zing. Drizzle it over grain bowls with black beans and corn for extra flavor complexity.
Creative Twists
In winter substitute fresh mangoes with canned or frozen varieties for convenience. During the summer use abundant fresh herbs such as mint or basil to change up the herbal notes. Adjust the heat level by increasing or reducing the chili pepper according to your preference.
This dressing balances sweet citrus and heat beautifully, bringing brightness and warmth to any dish with ease.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of mango works best?
Use a ripe, juicy mango for the best sweetness and smooth texture in the dressing.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, use milder or hotter chili peppers to suit your heat preference and balance with honey accordingly.
- → How long does the dressing keep?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use.
- → What dishes pair well with this dressing?
This dressing complements salads, grilled salmon, shrimp, chicken, or roasted vegetables beautifully.
- → Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, preparing in advance lets flavors meld, enhancing the overall taste when served.