Short Description

This Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing is the perfect blend of tropical sweetness and fiery heat. Made with fresh mango, tangy citrus, and a hint of spice, this dressing adds a vibrant burst of flavor to any salad. Whether drizzled over greens, used as a marinade, or served as a dipping sauce, this dressing is a must-try for those who love a balance of sweet and spicy flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor Balance: The combination of ripe mango and chili creates a delightful contrast between sweetness and heat.
Versatile Usage: Use it as a salad dressing, marinade, or dipping sauce.
Quick and Easy: Requires only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.
Healthy and Fresh: Made with wholesome ingredients, free from preservatives.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and sweetness to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Ripe mango, peeled and diced
Olive oil
Lime juice
Honey or maple syrup
Apple cider vinegar
Garlic, minced
Red pepper flakes or chili powder
Salt
Black pepper
Water (optional, for thinning)

Directions

Prepare the Mango: Peel and dice the mango, removing the pit.
Blend Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine mango, olive oil, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Adjust Consistency: Blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
Taste and Adjust: Adjust sweetness or spiciness by adding more honey, lime juice, or chili flakes as needed.
Serve or Store: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Variations

Mild Version: Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a sweeter, less spicy dressing.
Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped fresh chili for extra heat.
Creamy Texture: Blend in Greek yogurt or avocado for a richer consistency.
Herbal Twist: Add fresh cilantro or basil for a fresh and fragrant touch.
Citrus Boost: Substitute lime juice with orange or lemon juice for a different tangy flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: Makes about 1 cup of dressing

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Separation: If separation occurs, shake well or blend again before using.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?

Yes! Thaw the mango before blending for a smoother consistency.

2. What type of vinegar can I use?

Apple cider vinegar works well, but you can also use white vinegar or rice vinegar.

3. How can I make this dressing vegan?

Use maple syrup instead of honey.

4. Is this dressing suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly.

5. Can I use this dressing as a dip?

Absolutely! It pairs well with veggies, grilled chicken, or shrimp.

6. What salads pair best with this dressing?

It complements tropical fruit salads, leafy greens, and grilled protein salads.

7. Can I make it oil-free?

Yes, replace olive oil with more mango puree or a splash of water.

8. How spicy is this dressing?

It has a mild to moderate heat level, but you can adjust the spice to your preference.

9. Can I add nuts or seeds to this dressing?

Yes! Blending in cashews or sesame seeds can add a creamy texture.

10. What other dishes can I use this dressing on?

Try it on tacos, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a drizzle over rice bowls.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Its balance of sweetness, tang, and heat makes it incredibly versatile, and it can be customized to fit any palate. Whether used as a dressing, dip, or marinade, this recipe is sure to elevate your dishes with its tropical flair. Give it a try and bring a burst of vibrant flavor to your next meal!

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