Sweet Spicy Mango Dressing

This sweet and spicy mango salad dressing turns any ordinary salad into something vibrant and refreshing. It also shines as a zesty topping for pan-seared or grilled salmon, shrimp, or chicken, adding a bright tropical twist to your meals.

I first whipped this up on a warm summer evening when I wanted something light but satisfying for dinner. Since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen and always gets compliments when I serve it.

Gather Your Ingredients

• One large ripe mango: peeled pitted and roughly chopped for natural sweetness and creamy texture. Choose mangoes that give slightly to pressure but are not too mushy
• Quarter cup fresh lime juice: from about two medium limes to add tang and brighten flavors. Use ripe juicy limes if possible
• Quarter cup fresh orange juice: to bring a gentle citrus sweetness that complements the mango
• Two tablespoons honey: for subtle floral sweetness and to balance the tangy and spicy elements
• Half teaspoon cumin: which adds earthiness and a warm depth. Opt for freshly ground if you can for the best aroma
• One garlic clove: for a mild pungent kick that rounds out the dressing
• Half teaspoon salt: to enhance all the flavors without overpowering
• One third cup extra virgin olive oil: for richness and smooth texture. Use good quality oil that is fruity and not overly bitter
• One tablespoon finely chopped medium heat chili pepper: like Fresno or jalapeño for a gentle spicy warmth. Fresh chili peppers work best for texture and flavor
• Two tablespoons finely chopped cilantro: to add freshness and a slight herbal note
• Quarter teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: for subtle heat and complexity

How to Make It

Scoop and Blend:

Combine the chopped mango lime juice orange juice honey cumin garlic and salt in a blender. Puree on medium speed until you have a smooth uniform mixture without lumps. This step builds the creamy base of your dressing

Slowly Incorporate Oil:

Transfer the mango mixture to a medium jar. While stirring continuously with a fork or small whisk add the extra virgin olive oil in a slow steady stream. This technique emulsifies the oil into the acidic base resulting in a silky texture that clings beautifully to salads and proteins

Add Fresh Herbs and Spice:

Stir in the finely chopped chili pepper cilantro and black pepper. Taste carefully at this point and adjust salt as needed to balance the sweetness acidity and heat. The chili adds a pleasant kick without overwhelming the fruitiness

Chill and Shake:

Store your dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week. Remember to shake well before each use because the ingredients will naturally separate when cold. It tastes best served chilled but not icy

My favorite part of this dressing is how the natural sweetness of mango blends with the lime and chili to create a lively flavor journey in every bite. I still remember the first time I served it at a family barbecue and how surprised everyone was at how something so simple could taste so exhilarating.

Flavor Boosters

Storage Tips Keep the dressing tightly sealed in a glass jar or airtight container to maintain freshness Shake or stir well before each use to reincorporate the oil and spices evenly Use within seven days to enjoy mango and herbs at their peak flavor and avoid degradation Ingredient Substitutions You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different but still natural sweetness Try lemon juice instead of lime for a slightly sharper citrus note Mild chili flakes can replace fresh chili if you prefer less heat or when fresh peppers are unavailable

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle over mixed greens with toasted nuts and seeds for an easy flavorful salad Serve as a marinade for grilled shrimp or chicken before cooking for added zest Use as a topping for roasted vegetables to brighten and add complexity to savory dishes

Creative Twists

Cultural and Seasonal Context This dressing draws inspiration from tropical fruit flavors common in South Asian and Latin American cuisines where mango and chili pair beautifully It is especially refreshing in spring and summer when mangoes and fresh herbs are in season and salads are a go-to meal Serving this dressing can instantly bring a sunny tropical vibe to your table even on cooler days Success Stories Friends have told me they use this dressing as a dip for grilled corn or as a topping for tacos with avocado and fresh cabbage One friend from a colder climate said this dressing helped her feel like summer was never far away during the long winters It has become a go-to for quick healthy meals among busy parents who want flavor without fuss Freezer Meal Conversion Due to the fresh citrus and herbs this dressing does not freeze well and can lose its bright flavors and creamy texture when thawed For long-term storage prepare the base without herbs and chili and freeze only the mango puree mix. Add fresh ingredients upon thawing

This dressing is a wonderful way to brighten summer meals and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy the tropical flavors year-round by storing the base properly and adding fresh ingredients when ready to serve.

Recipe FAQs

→ What fruits are used in this dressing?

Ripe mango along with fresh lime and orange juices provide a vibrant and balanced fruity base.

→ How spicy is the dressing?

The chili pepper adds a moderate heat that can be adjusted to taste depending on the pepper variety used.

→ Can this dressing be used beyond salads?

Yes, it pairs wonderfully with grilled or pan-seared salmon, shrimp, and chicken for a flavorful finish.

→ What is the main oil in the dressing?

Extra virgin olive oil is slowly incorporated to create a smooth, rich texture and enhance flavors.

→ How long can the dressing be stored?

Store refrigerated up to one week. Shake or whisk before each use to recombine ingredients.