Harlingen-Inspired Mango and Avocado Salad with Chili Lime Dressing
A refreshing salad combining sweet ripe mango, creamy avocado, and crisp greens, tossed in a tangy chili lime dressing for a perfect light meal or side. This mexican-inspired salads (gluten free) ready in about 15 minutes blends large, peeled and diced ripe mango, medium, diced ripe avocado, mixed salad greens into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 large, peeled and diced ripe mango
- 1 medium, diced ripe avocado
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 small, diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
- Step 2: In a large salad bowl, combine 4 cups mixed salad greens, 1 large diced mango, 1 medium diced avocado, 1 small diced red bell pepper, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
- Step 3: Pour the chili lime dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly without mashing the avocado.
- Step 4: Serve immediately as a refreshing side or light lunch.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Harlingen-Inspired Mango and Avocado Salad with Chili Lime Dressing take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Harlingen-Inspired Mango and Avocado Salad with Chili Lime Dressing?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Harlingen-Inspired Mango and Avocado Salad with Chili Lime Dressing?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Harlingen-Inspired Mango and Avocado Salad with Chili Lime Dressing for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Harlingen-Inspired Mango and Avocado Salad with Chili Lime Dressing gluten free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.