Sweet Spicy Mango Dressing

This vibrant sweet and spicy mango salad dressing brings tropical flavors to your table with minimal effort. The combination of juicy mango, citrus, and just the right hint of heat transforms ordinary salads into memorable meals.

I created this dressing when mangoes were overflowing at my local market last summer. What started as a way to use up extra fruit quickly became the most requested recipe among my friends who tasted it at our backyard gatherings.

• Ripe mango provides natural sweetness and creamy texture choose one that yields slightly to pressure for optimal flavor
• Fresh lime juice adds brightness and helps preserve the dressing longer
• Orange juice balances the lime with sweeter citrus notes
• Honey enhances the mango sweetness while helping emulsify the dressing
• Ground cumin brings earthy depth that complements the tropical fruit
• Garlic adds subtle savory notes that balance the sweetness
• Fresh chili pepper contributes essential heat use more or less based on your preference
• Cilantro provides herbaceous freshness and traditional pairing with mango
• Extra virgin olive oil creates richness and body choose a fruity variety rather than peppery

How To Make Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing

Blend the base

Combine mango chunks lime juice orange juice honey cumin garlic and salt in your blender. Puree until completely smooth with no remaining fruit pieces about 60 seconds. The mixture should be vibrant yellow and have a thick pourable consistency.

Emulsify with oil

Transfer the mango puree to a jar then slowly stream in the olive oil while continuously whisking. This gradual addition creates a stable emulsion that prevents separation and ensures a silky texture. The dressing will lighten in color and thicken slightly.

Finish with fresh elements

Stir in the chopped chili pepper cilantro and black pepper by hand. This preserves their texture and allows the fresh flavors to stand out rather than becoming lost in the blender. Taste and adjust salt if needed for perfect balance.

Chill before serving

Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before using to allow flavors to meld together. The natural sweetness of the mango will become more pronounced and the spices will integrate fully throughout the mixture.

The chili pepper is my secret ingredient in this dressing. While many fruit-based dressings become overly sweet the heat from the pepper creates a wonderful counterpoint that keeps you coming back for more. My husband who typically avoids fruit in savory dishes asks for this dressing specifically on his lunch salads.

Perfect Pairings

This dressing shines brightest when paired with ingredients that complement its tropical profile. Try it drizzled over a salad of peppery arugula avocado and grilled shrimp. The sweetness balances bitter greens while the acidity cuts through rich elements like cheese or nuts. For a simple dinner toss with mixed greens toasted cashews and grilled chicken for a complete meal with minimal effort.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of homemade dressings is how easily they can be customized. For a creamier version add half an avocado during blending. Need something less sweet? Reduce the honey and add a splash of rice vinegar instead. In winter when fresh mangoes are less available substitute frozen mango chunks thawed before blending. For a stunning presentation drizzle over a plate and top with microgreens and edible flowers.

Storage Tips

Keep this dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Natural separation may occur over time simply shake vigorously before each use to recombine. The citrus acts as a natural preservative but freshness diminishes after about seven days. The dressing will thicken slightly when cold so you may want to let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before using on delicate greens.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?

Yes, thawed frozen mango works well as a substitute. Allow it to fully defrost and drain any excess liquid before blending to maintain the proper consistency.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To increase spiciness, add more chili pepper or include some of the seeds. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili or substitute with a dash of mild chili powder instead.

→ Is there a substitute for cilantro?

For those who don't enjoy cilantro, fresh mint or basil make excellent alternatives that complement the mango and citrus flavors beautifully.

→ Can I make this dressing oil-free?

For an oil-free version, substitute the olive oil with additional orange juice or coconut water. The texture will be thinner but still flavorful.

→ What salads pair best with this dressing?

This dressing shines with salads containing avocado, grilled corn, black beans, or tropical fruits. It's especially delicious on grain bowls with quinoa or farro, topped with fresh vegetables.

→ How can I thicken the dressing if it's too runny?

Blend in half an avocado or a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to create a creamier, thicker consistency while adding complementary flavor.