Spicy Cucumber Mango Salad

Discover the vibrant and delicious Spicy Cucumber Mango Salad, a perfect combination of refreshing flavors and benefits. This colorful dish blends crisp cucumbers, sweet mangoes, crunchy red bell pepper, and a zesty kick from jalapeños, all tied together with a tangy lime dressing. Packed with vitamins and low in calories, it’s an ideal choice for a light meal or a side dish at any gathering. Enjoy this salad anytime for a burst of flavor and nutrition!

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Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

1 ripe mango, diced

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

1/4 red onion, finely sliced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust according to your spice preference)

Juice of 2 limes

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for an extra kick)

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers and mango. For the cucumbers, slice them into thin rounds or half-moons for added texture. Dice the mango into bite-sized pieces. Place both ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Add the Crunch: Finely chop the red bell pepper and slice the red onion. Add these crunchy components to the bowl containing the cucumbers and mango to create a vibrant mix of flavors and colors.

Make it Spicy: Carefully mince the jalapeño pepper, avoiding contact with your face (wear gloves if necessary). Incorporate the minced jalapeño into the vegetable mixture. If you're a spice enthusiast, feel free to add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper for a greater heat level.

Dress the Salad: In a separate small bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, honey (if you're opting for it), and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is well-blended. Taste your dressing and feel free to adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Combine: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl and gently toss everything together. Ensure that all vegetables are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.

Garnish: Sprinkle the freshly chopped cilantro over the top of the salad. Give it one final gentle toss to incorporate the cilantro without bruising it.

Chill: For optimal flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to become refreshing.

Serve: Before serving, give the salad another gentle stir. Taste and tweak any seasoning as needed. Enjoy the vibrant and spicy flavors of this refreshing dish!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes (including chill time) | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a chilled glass bowl for a stunning presentation. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges on the side for an inviting touch.