Sweet Spicy Mango Dressing

Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing brings a burst of sunshine to any meal with its balanced blend of ripe mango, fresh lime, fragrant cilantro, and a gentle warmth from chili pepper. This easy homemade dressing instantly wakes up salads or grilled dishes with layers of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. I love making extra to have on hand for drizzling over grilled shrimp and for brightening up quick weeknight meals.

I was first inspired to make this when I had more mangoes on my counter than I knew what to do with. After sharing it at a summer barbecue, my neighbor started making a double batch every week for her lunches.

Essential Ingredients

• Ripe mango: Choose fruit that is fragrant and has a gentle yield to touch Ataulfo mangoes are especially creamy and sweet
• Fresh lime juice: Vital for a tangy kick that makes the flavors pop Always squeeze juice fresh for best results
• Hot chili pepper: Fresno chilies bring a great balance but jalapeño works if you want something milder Test before using as some can be extra spicy
• Olive oil: Pick a smooth and fruity extra-virgin oil Raw dressings really show off the oil’s flavor so quality matters
• Fresh cilantro: Vibrant green leaves mean the herb is fresh and flavorful Avoid bunches with limp or yellowing stems
• Local honey: A hint of raw honey not only sweetens but helps unify the dressing Always check for a fragrant aroma and thick consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mango Preparation:

Select a ripe mango with a sweet scent Stand upright and carefully slice on both sides of the pit Score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern without cutting through the skin Invert the halves and cut cubes away from the peel Scrape off any fruit around the pit for extra flavor

Creating the Base:

Drop the mango cubes into a blender Add fresh lime juice a little orange juice honey minced garlic and ground cumin Blend until the mixture is silky smooth Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness as you like

Emulsification Process:

While blending on low speed very slowly pour in the olive oil Watch for the mix to turn creamy It should look a bit glossy and slightly thick when ready

Final Touches:

Pour the dressing into a bowl Gently fold in finely chopped cilantro and as much minced chili as you desire Let it rest for ten minutes to allow the flavors to come together

Pin

My favorite part of this recipe is the way ripe mango combines with chili for a sweet heat that always reminds me of tropical vacations and glowing sunsets My kids beg for this on tacos and even use it as a dip for raw veggies

Beyond Salads

Do not overlook this dressing as a quick marinade for seafood The citrus helps tenderize and caramelize fish or shrimp on the grill For best texture limit marinating time to thirty minutes so the lime does not overcook the protein

Storage Solutions

Keep extra dressing in a glass jar with a tight lid to preserve the flavors Separation is natural so a good shake restores its smooth consistency each time If the dressing thickens after refrigeration let it sit out for a few minutes before serving

Ingredient Swaps

If mangoes are out of season frozen mango chunks work well after thawing and draining For those who avoid cilantro use flat-leaf parsley for a fresh twist Maple syrup is a fine substitute for honey if you want a vegan option

Pin

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle on leafy green salads with avocado and toasted pepitas Pour over grilled chicken fish or tofu for a tropical spin It is also fantastic on grain bowls or tossed with crunchy coleslaw

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does this dressing keep?

It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week when stored in a sealed jar.

→ Which chili peppers work best?

Fresno chilies offer a balanced mild heat, while jalapeños provide a sharper kick. Choose according to your preferred spice level.

→ Can this dressing be used beyond salads?

Definitely—it makes a flavorful marinade for grilled shrimp, chicken, or salmon, adding brightness and subtle heat.

→ What indicates a ripe mango for this dressing?

A ripe mango should give gently to pressure and emit a sweet, fruity aroma near the stem.

→ Should I shake the dressing before serving?

Yes, the natural separation of oils means shaking ensures even texture and flavor before each use.