If you are looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and absolutely delicious salad that dances on your taste buds, then this Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe is a must-try. Bursting with juicy mango, crisp cucumber, and the zing of cilantro lime dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and crunch. It’s not only a feast for the eyes with its bright colors but also a nourishing choice that’s quick to whip up any day of the week.

A vibrant flat lay of fresh ingredients arranged neatly on a clean white surface: bright golden diced champagne mango cubes, crisp pale green diced Persian cucumber, finely minced translucent red onion resting in a small bowl, a pile of deep green peppery arugula leaves, a halved creamy green avocado with smooth texture, a small cluster of glossy dark blue blueberries, a scattering of toasted golden-brown walnuts, and a small heap of fresh chopped bright green cilantro. Nearby, a clear glass bowl contains the light golden olive oil vinaigrette mixed with fresh lime juice, tiny bits of chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of garlic powder, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Natural soft lighting highlights the contrasting textures—the juicy mango’s sheen, the cucumber’s crispness, the walnuts’ crunch—styled with subtle shadows and space between each element for clarity and harmony. Overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it is adding a creamy texture, a pop of sweetness, or a nutty crunch.

Champagne mango: Choose a ripe mango that is fragrant and soft for the perfect juicy sweetness.
Persian cucumber: Its thin skin and mild flavor provide a hydrating crispness without overpowering the salad.
Red onion: Minced and left to mellow for 15 minutes to soften its sharp bite and bring subtle sweetness.
Arugula: Adds a peppery green note that balances the fruity elements.
Avocado: Provides creamy richness and smooth texture contrast.
Blueberries: Tiny bursts of sweet-tart flavor that brighten each bite.
Walnuts: Toasted for a toasty crunch and depth of flavor.
Cilantro: Freshly chopped for an herbaceous lift in both salad and vinaigrette.
Lime juice: Essential for the tangy zing in the vinaigrette.
Maple syrup: Adds a natural, gentle sweetness balancing the acidity.
Extra virgin olive oil: The base of the dressing, bringing smoothness and helping flavors meld.
Garlic powder: Gives just a whisper of savory warmth to the dressing.
Sea salt and black pepper: Season to taste and elevate all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Fresh Salad Ingredients

Start by gathering all your fresh produce — diced champagne mango, Persian cucumber, minced red onion that’s been resting to mellow, peppery arugula, creamy avocado chunks, bursts of juicy blueberries, toasted walnuts, and freshly chopped cilantro. Toss them all gently in a large bowl, letting these beautiful textures and colors come together as a lively, fragrant mix.

Step 2: Whisk the Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette

In a separate bowl, whisk together zesty lime juice, sweet maple syrup, extra virgin olive oil, fresh cilantro, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. This bright vinaigrette is where the salad truly comes alive, tying every ingredient with a tasty, tangy kick that’s both refreshing and full of character.

Step 3: Toss the Salad with Vinaigrette

Pour the prepared cilantro lime vinaigrette over your salad bowl and toss everything gently but thoroughly. The goal is to coat every piece of mango, avocado, and arugula with that luscious dressing so each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Serve Fresh or Chill Briefly

You can dive right in and enjoy the crisp freshness, or chill your salad for 10 to 15 minutes. This little resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. Either way, it’s a delight!

How to Serve Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

Garnishes

To amp up the visual appeal and flavor, consider garnishing your salad with a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro or chopped toasted walnuts. A few thin lime slices on top can make a beautiful, zesty finishing touch. These garnishes will thrill your guests and add an extra welcome crunch or burst of citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

This Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also complements any light grain bowl or can be served alongside tacos or sandwiches for a fresh, healthful contrast. Its bright, crisp nature makes it ideal for warm-weather meals or outdoor gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, try serving this salad in individual mason jars for picnics, or scooped into hollowed-out mango halves for a memorable presentation. Layer it over a bed of quinoa or wild rice for a nourishing one-bowl meal. You can even turn it into a wrap or taco filling, making it versatile beyond just being a salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because of the fresh avocado and vinaigrette, it’s best to store leftover salad in an airtight container and consume it within 1 to 2 days. Keep it refrigerated to maintain crispness and prevent the avocado from browning too quickly. You might want to add extra avocado fresh when serving leftovers.

Freezing

This Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe is not suitable for freezing. The high water content in mango and cucumber and the creamy avocado will lose their texture and become mushy after freezing and thawing.

Reheating

Since this salad is designed to be enjoyed fresh and cool, reheating is not recommended. The flavors and textures shine best when served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Absolutely! Just be sure to peel the cucumbers if their skin is thick or waxy. Regular cucumbers work well, though Persian cucumbers offer a more delicate flavor and texture.

Is the cilantro lime vinaigrette spicy?

No, the vinaigrette has a mild, fresh brightness without any heat. The garlic powder offers subtle warmth, but it’s not spicy at all.

Can I substitute the walnuts with other nuts?

Yes! Pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds can provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you prefer or have allergies.

How can I make this salad vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan, as all ingredients are plant-based. Just be sure your maple syrup and olive oil are pure and to your liking.

How long does the vinaigrette keep?

You can store leftover cilantro lime vinaigrette in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.

Final Thoughts

This Mango Cucumber Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels indulgent yet wholesome, simple yet bursting with complexity. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser and a refreshing way to enjoy fresh seasonal produce. I encourage you to try it soon—it’s a little bowl of sunshine that brightens even the busiest day!