Mango Avocado Salad Cups

Name: Mango Avocado Salad Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted; 1 large mango, diced; 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

I love to prepare Mango Avocado Salad Cups during the warmer months when fresh ingredients are at their peak. The combination of creamy avocado and sweet mango creates a refreshing dish that is perfect as a light lunch or a party appetizer. Each time I make these cups, the vibrant colors and flavors always impress my guests. Plus, they're incredibly easy to assemble, making them a go-to recipe for gatherings or just a delightful treat for myself. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself craving them again and again!

Created by

Emmas

Last updated on 2026-02-08T16:46:28.027Z

When I first tried making Mango Avocado Salad Cups, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a delicious flavor profile. I love the way the sweetness of the mango balances with the creamy richness of avocado. To enhance the taste, a squeeze of lime juice adds a bright acidity that brings everything together beautifully.

Over the years, I've experimented with different seasonings, but I find that keeping it simple with just salt and pepper works best to highlight the natural flavors. Serve these in halved avocados or small cups for an elegant touch that elevates any meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors
Perfectly creamy texture paired with fresh ingredients
Ideal for summer gatherings or healthy snacks

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Mango Avocado Salad Cups, selecting ripe avocados and mangoes is crucial. When choosing avocados, look for those that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't overly soft, as they can quickly become mushy. For the mango, aim for a fruit that has a slight give and fragrant aroma. If your mango is too firm, you can ripen it at room temperature for a few days before using it in the salad.

The vibrant color contrasts of the red onion and red bell pepper not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the dish but also contribute to its layered flavors. Opt for sweet varieties of red bell peppers, which bring a natural sweetness that complements the citrusy lime and creamy avocado perfectly. Additionally, if you love spice, consider adding finely diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick.

Perfecting the Salad Technique

Gently mixing the ingredients ensures that the avocado remains creamy rather than turning to mush. When combining the diced mango, onion, and bell pepper, use a folding technique with a spatula. This approach helps maintain the integrity of the avocado while mixing in the lime juice, which not only prevents browning but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Aim for a mixture that is well-coated but still retains some chunkiness for texture.

While assembling your salad cups, consider the presentation. For a striking look, use a spoon to shape the avocado halves to create a deeper well for the salad. If you’re serving at a gathering, offering the salad in petite transparent cups allows guests to see the colorful layers, heightening their anticipation. This step can be done in advance; just cover tightly with plastic wrap until ready to serve.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad:

Ingredients for Mango Avocado Salad Cups

2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
1 large mango, diced
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all these ingredients ready, you're set to create a burst of flavor!

Instructions

Here’s how to quickly prepare your Mango Avocado Salad Cups:

Prepare the ingredients

In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, and cilantro. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and gently toss to combine.

Season the salad

Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well, ensuring everything is evenly combined.

Assemble the cups

Scoop the mango avocado salad into the halved avocado shells or served in small cups for a stylish presentation.

Serve and enjoy

Enjoy your refreshing Mango Avocado Salad Cups immediately as a healthy appetizer or light meal.

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful cups!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the salad before serving.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

The beauty of Mango Avocado Salad Cups lies in their freshness, but you can prep certain components ahead of time. Keep the avocado and salad mixture separate until you're ready to serve to prevent browning. You can store the salad mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours if you omit the lime juice initially; adding it just before serving boosts freshness.

If you find yourself with leftover salad, you can enjoy it on its own or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. However, be mindful that the avocado may darken after a day or two, changing the visual appeal but not the taste. An additional squeeze of lime juice can help revitalize its color and flavor before serving.

Serving Variations

You can customize the salad cups by introducing new ingredients. For a Mexican twist, add corn and black beans to the mix for an added crunch and protein boost. Alternatively, swapping cilantro for fresh parsley or basil can create a different flavor profile while still capturing that fresh essence. Another great addition is crumbled feta or goat cheese for an extra creamy dimension.

This salad also shines as a topping for tacos or as a vibrant side dish for grilled meats. For a more substantial meal, serve the mango avocado mixture over a bed of greens like spinach or arugula, drizzled with a light vinaigrette. This approach not only stretches the recipe but also allows you to enjoy it in multiple contexts, keeping your meals exciting and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and prevent browning.

→ What can I substitute for cilantro?

You can use parsley or green onions as a substitute for cilantro, depending on your taste preference.

→ How do I pick a ripe avocado?

Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a dark green skin. Avoid ones that feel mushy.

→ Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! This salad is completely plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.