Name: Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad: Your Summer Flavor Fix
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups diced ripe mango (Choose ripe, slightly soft mangoes); 1 cup julienned jicama (A crunchy and refreshing element, cucumber can be substituted); 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (Swap for yellow or orange bell peppers if desired); 1/2 cup finely diced red onion (Soak in cold water if too strong); 1 tablespoon lime juice (Use fresh lime for the best flavor); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Adjust to personal taste); 1 tablespoon jalapeño (Adjust amount or remove seeds for less heat); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (Parsley can be used as a substitute)

What’s more refreshing than the first bite of a summer street salad? The Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad is a vibrant, no-cook delight that’s perfect for those balmy days when you crave something light yet satisfying. With just 15 minutes of prep, this salad combines the sweet juiciness of ripe mangoes with the satisfying crunch of jicama. It’s not just quick to whip up; it’s also vegan and a crowd-pleaser that will brighten any picnic or barbecue. As zesty lime and a touch of jalapeño dance on your palate, you’ll find this salad evokes sunshine and good vibes in every mouthful. Ready to dive into a bowl of joyful flavors? Let’s get started!

Why is this salad a must-try?

**Vibrant **colors: The combination of bright mango, crunchy jicama, and colorful bell pepper creates a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
**Quick **and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and no cooking required, you can enjoy this refreshing salad without any hassle.
**Versatile *ingredients: Feel free to customize it! Swap jicama for cucumber or add black beans for extra protein, making it your own.
Flavor explosion: The sweet, spicy, and tangy notes from mango, jalapeño, and lime come together in every bite, delivering a delightful experience.*
**Perfect for **gatherings: Impress your guests at barbecues or picnics with this crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even tortilla chips.

This Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad is not just delicious; it’s everything you want in a summer dish! Plus, if you’re looking to explore other refreshing options, don’t miss out on our Strawberry Spinach Salad or the zesty Mango Dragonfruit Refresher. Enjoy the flavors of summer!

Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad Ingredients

• For a vibrant summer delight!

For the Base

Mango – Choose ripe, slightly soft mangoes for optimal sweetness and flavor.
Jicama – A crunchy and refreshing element; other crunchy vegetables like cucumber can be substituted.
Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color; feel free to swap for yellow or orange bell peppers based on your preference.
Red Onion – Offers sharpness; if too strong, soak it in cold water to mellow the taste.

For the Dressing

Lime Juice – Use fresh lime for acidity that brightens flavors; lemon juice is a good substitute.
Salt – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to your personal taste.

For the Heat

Jalapeño – Adds spice; you can adjust the amount or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.

For Freshness

Cilantro – Provides a fresh, aromatic flavor; parsley can be used as a substitute if preferred.

This Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures perfect for summer. Enjoy the vibrant goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by selecting ripe mangoes; their slight softness indicates perfect sweetness. Dice the mango into small, bite-sized pieces, then peel and julienne the jicama until you have a crunchy texture. Next, chop the red bell pepper and finely dice the red onion. Don’t forget to chop the fresh cilantro and jalapeño, adjusting the heat level by removing seeds if desired. Set aside all the freshly prepared ingredients.

Step 2: Combine in a Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced mango, julienned jicama, chopped red bell pepper, and red onion. Add the cilantro and the jalapeño pieces for that spicy kick. Make sure to use a bowl large enough to allow for easy mixing, as the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad will expand as you combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Dress the Salad
Squeeze fresh lime juice generously over the mixture in the bowl, ensuring that all the ingredients get a touch of that zesty flavor. Add an appropriate amount of salt to enhance the overall taste of your salad. The acidity of the lime juice will brighten the salad, showcasing the fresh ingredients beautifully, so don’t skip this step.

Step 4: Toss with Care
Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to combine all the elements without mashing the mango pieces. Aim for a light and fluffy texture, allowing the vibrant colors and ingredients to meld together. The goal is to have a bright mix of crunch and sweetness evident at every turn in your Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad.

Step 5: Let it Marinate
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, with the lime juice soaking into the ingredients. If desired, cover the bowl to maintain freshness. After 10 minutes, the salad will reach a harmonious blend of tastes and textures, ready to make a delightful impression.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the flavors have mingled, serve the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad either chilled or at room temperature. This vibrant dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats, fish, or simply enjoyed on its own. The bright colors will make it a star at your summer gatherings, so grab your serving utensil and dig in when ready!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep jicama crunchy, add lime juice just before serving.
Room Temperature: If serving at a picnic or outdoor event, it can sit out for about an hour before the ingredients start to wilt and lose freshness.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing, as the texture of mango and jicama will degrade. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: This salad is to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it—just toss and enjoy!

Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this refreshing salad to make it truly yours!

Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the crunchiness of jicama.
Lemon Zest: Substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist and a slightly different citrus profile.
Serrano Heat: Use serrano peppers in place of jalapeños for a bolder kick, perfect for those who like it spicy.
Black Beans Boost: Incorporate black beans for added protein and a pleasing texture contrast; they also enhance the salad’s heartiness.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in a handful of chopped peanuts or almonds for a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully.
Herb Variations: Instead of cilantro, try fresh mint for a refreshing note or basil for a unique aromatic twist.
Fruit Mix: Add a handful of pineapple or diced cucumbers for additional sweetness and juiciness, transforming it into a fruit salad delight.

Imagine enjoying your Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad with a side of flavorful grilled chicken or fish, bringing a lovely symphony of flavors to any summer gathering. And if you love the vibrant fruitiness of this dish, don’t forget to check out our Strawberry Spinach Salad for more refreshing flavors!

Expert Tips for Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad

Choose Ripe Mangoes: Always select slightly soft, ripe mangoes for the sweetest flavor; it makes a world of difference in your Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad.
Keep Jicama Crunchy: To maintain jicama’s texture, add lime juice just before serving. This will prevent it from getting soggy.
Adjust Heat Level: For those who prefer a milder salad, remove the jalapeño seeds completely. You can also reduce the quantity to suit your taste.
Flavor Meld Time: Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to blend beautifully without losing the salad’s refreshing crunch.
Add Fresh Herbs: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great substitute that still brings freshness to the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad.

What to Serve with Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad

Creating a delightful meal is simple when you pair this vibrant salad with complementary dishes that enhance its refreshing flavors.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken adds protein and a savory contrast to the sweetness of the mangoes, making for a well-rounded meal. Serve the salad alongside to balance the flavors perfectly.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: The crunchy texture of chips provides an enjoyable contrast to the salad’s softness. They are great for munching and soaking up the fresh cilantro and lime goodness.
Zesty Black Bean Tacos: Packed with flavor, these tacos bring a satisfying element to your meal. The smoky taste of the black beans harmonizes beautifully with the salad’s sweet and spicy notes.
Avocado Toast: Creamy and rich, avocado toast is a fantastic way to indulge with healthy fats. Top it with a sprinkle of chili flakes to echo the jalapeño’s spice from the salad.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the fresh, zesty elements of the salad. It makes an elegant pairing that elevates any summer gathering.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing fruit sorbet complements the salad’s vibrant flavors without overwhelming your palate. Opt for mango or lime for a delightful finish.

Each of these pairings not only offers a tasty companion to the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad but also adds different textures and flavors to create an unforgettable summer meal!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy days! You can chop the mango, jicama, bell peppers, and onions up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store each ingredient in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. If you’re looking to prep even further, the salad can be mixed together without dressing and refrigerated for 1-2 days. However, it’s best to add the lime juice and salt just before serving to keep the jicama crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toss the salad together and serve; it will be just as delicious and refreshing!

Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe mangoes for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. A ripe mango should yield slightly when pressed, indicating juiciness and sweetness. Avoid mangoes with dark spots all over, as they may be overripe.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To retain the crunchiness of the jicama, I recommend keeping the lime juice separate and adding it just before serving. This will keep the salad fresh and delicious!

Can I freeze the salad for later?
It’s best to avoid freezing the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad, as both mango and jicama lose their delightful texture when frozen. Instead, enjoy it fresh for maximum flavor and crunch!

What if I don’t like cilantro?
No worries at all! If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with parsley for a different fresh herbal note. This way, you can still enjoy the vibrant flavors of the salad without the cilantro taste.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the salad?
To tailor the heat of the salad to your liking, simply remove the seeds from the jalapeño or reduce the amount of jalapeño used entirely. If you want more heat, you could also add serrano peppers instead!

Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Spicy Mango & Jicama Street Salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to keep the lime juice separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the jicama stays crisp. Enjoy the convenience of making it ahead while still delighting in its fresh flavor!