Pin it
This lively mango chili dressing combines tropical sweetness with a gentle kick. Juicy mango delivers natural sweetness, while tangy lime adds zip, chili gives a warm tingle, and cilantro brings fresh herbal notes. You'll love how this adaptable dressing boosts both basic salads and barbecued meats.
I stumbled upon this mix while playing around with super-ripe seasonal mangoes. The zingy taste and smooth texture make it a crowd favorite whenever I serve it.
Essential Components
- Mango: Pick ripe ones that smell sweet and yield slightly when you squeeze them. The Ataulfo kind works best for smoothness.
- Lime: Only use juice you've squeezed yourself - the stuff in bottles just won't cut it.
- Chili: Go for Fresno or jalapeño for just the right amount of heat.
- Olive oil: Don't skimp here - grab something nice with a clean, fruity taste.
- Cilantro: Look for bright green bunches with no droopy leaves.
- Honey: Unprocessed honey adds extra flavor layers and helps everything stick together.
Pin it
Making Your Dressing
- Get Your Mango Ready
- Find a nice ripe mango and cut around the pit. Make a grid pattern in the flesh, then scoop the cubes out. Don't waste the bits stuck to the pit!
- Create Your Foundation
- Throw your mango chunks into a blender with citrus juices, honey, garlic and cumin. Blend until smooth and taste for sweetness.
- Mix In The Oil
- Keep your blender going and pour the olive oil in slowly until everything looks creamy and well-mixed.
- Last Touches
- Pour into a bowl and mix in your chopped cilantro and minced chili. Let it sit for 10 minutes so the flavors can mingle.
This dressing came from my summer kitchen trials when I had too many ripe mangoes and wanted something different for my everyday salads.
More Ways To Use It
You can also use it to marinate seafood, especially shrimp. Just don't leave it marinating longer than 30 minutes or the citrus might start cooking the protein.
Keeping It Fresh
Store it in the fridge in a sealed glass container. Don't worry if it separates - just give it a good shake before you use it.
This sunny, tropical dressing makes basic dishes way more exciting with its perfect mix of sweet and heat, bringing a taste of summer to your meals anytime.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does it last in the fridge?
- Store it chilled, and you can use it for up to a week.
- → Which chili is a good choice?
- Try either jalapeños or Fresno peppers depending on how much heat you want.
- → Is it only good for salads?
- Nope, it’s great on shrimp, chicken, or even salmon for a quick flavor boost.
- → How do I know if my mango’s ready?
- A ripe mango will be soft to the touch and smell sweet by the stem.
- → Should I stir it before using?
- Definitely! Give it a good shake to mix everything back together.