Image: Depositphotos, Valentyn Volkov
Lately, it seems mangos are getting a lot of limelight. Even Pepsi has hopped on the mango bandwagon, creating a new flavor that infused the popular orange fruit into their cola. Mangos have a meaty texture, similar to that of cantaloupe, and, when ripe, the tropical fruit embodies the rich sweetness of honey and the juices trail from your lips like a waterfall. Arguably, mangos can be best enjoyed simply by peeling off the skin and taking a bite (just be mindful of the gigantic pit); but there are many creative and delicious ways to enjoy mangoes.
Mango Daiquiri
Why you should try it: Because if you can’t be on the beach, the next best thing is sipping on a paradise-inspired cocktail. With its bright yellow-orange hue, mango screams ‘summertime’.
How to do it: Place a peeled mango, lime juice, a teaspoon of simple syrup and ¾ cup of rum in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour the mixture over a glass full of crushed ice. You can also make a spicy mango margarita by substituting tequila for rum and a chopped jalapeno for simple syrup.
Mango Salsa
Why you should try it: Take a break from the super spicy salsas and try scooping your chips through this lighter mixture. The sweet contrast of the mango paired with the slight kick of the jalapeño complement each other handsomely.
How to do it: In a large bowl, combine (three) diced mangos, chopped bell pepper, onion, cilantro, and minced jalapeño. Drizzle with lime juice. Stir the ingredients together and season to taste with salt.
Mango-Walnut Chicken Salad
Why you should try it: Revamp your ordinary chicken salad. This chunky yet crunchy meal will soon be your new favorite lunch!
How to do it: Thoroughly mix together cooked (cubed) chicken breast, minced celery, a diced mango, lime juice, 3 tablespoons of mayo, a couple dashes of cayenne, and 1 cup of minced walnuts. Add salt and pepper to taste. Divide among toasted bread slices that have a light spread of extra mayo on each. Serve open-face or top with a second slice of bread.
Mango Chili Chicken Wings
Why you should try it: Smother your wings in a fresh take on a traditional marinade. You won’t be able to stop licking your fingers. Sticky, sweet, spicy: the BBQ sauce trifecta.
How to do it: Puree fresh mango to a pulp. Pour the pulp into a saucepan, along with 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, a couple grates of fresh ginger, minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Pour in 1 cup of water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Then drop in the cooked fried chicken wings so the sauce soaks through.
Thai Mango Salad Taco
Why you should try it: Okay, hear us out: We know that a bunch of stringy vegetables is probably no one’s idea of a taco, but this colorful salad is the right way to go if you want an appetizer before the “real food” comes off the grill. (Kidding…kind of.)
How to do it: Using a sharp knife, cut the mango, red pepper and zucchini into long thin strips. For the dressing, whisk 2-3 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and a teaspoon of sugar. Mix together the dry veggies with the dressing and place on a toasted tortilla. Add a handful of chopped cashews on top.