Thai Mango Cucumber Salad – Fresh, Zesty & Irresistibly Crunchy

When it comes to vibrant and refreshing dishes, Thai Mango Cucumber Salad takes the crown. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory—everything Thai cuisine is loved for. Juicy mango chunks pair beautifully with crisp cucumber slices, fresh herbs, and a zingy dressing, making this salad an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether served as a light side dish, a refreshing starter, or a colorful addition to a summer spread, this salad is as delicious as it is beautiful.

What Is Thai Mango Cucumber Salad

Thai Mango Cucumber Salad is a refreshing salad that combines ripe mangoes, crunchy cucumbers, and fragrant herbs, all tossed in a flavorful Thai-inspired dressing made with lime juice, soy sauce or fish sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of chili for heat. It’s the perfect balance of flavors: sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

• Fresh & vibrant – A true flavor explosion that wakes up the palate.
• Quick & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes.
• Versatile – Works as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main.
• Healthy – Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add proteins for variety.

this Recipe

How Does It Taste?

This salad is refreshing and zesty, with the natural sweetness of mango balancing the cool crunch of cucumber. The dressing adds tanginess from lime juice, umami from soy or fish sauce, nuttiness from sesame oil, and a touch of heat from red chili. Every bite bursts with bright flavors and refreshing textures.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

• Mangoes – Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
• Cucumbers – Hydrating and low-calorie, great for digestion.
• Chili peppers – Boost metabolism and add a spicy kick.
• Cilantro – Detoxifying and full of fresh flavor.
• Sesame seeds – Provide healthy fats and minerals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Small whisk (for dressing)
• Serving bowl

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Protein boost: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
• Extra crunch: Add crushed peanuts or cashews.
• Different herbs: Use fresh mint or Thai basil instead of cilantro.
• Fruit twist: Add pineapple or papaya for extra sweetness.

How to Make

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy or fish sauce, sesame oil, honey, and garlic.
2. Add mango cubes, cucumber slices, chili, and cilantro. Toss gently to coat.
3. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
4. Chill for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

What to Serve With

• Grilled fish, shrimp, or chicken
• Thai curries or noodle dishes
• Jasmine rice or coconut rice
• As a light starter before a heavier main

Tips for Success

• Use ripe but firm mangoes for the best balance of sweetness and texture.
• Toast sesame seeds for extra flavor.
• Slice cucumbers thin for maximum crunch.
• Taste and adjust the dressing to your liking—more lime for tang, more honey for sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overripe mangoes – Too soft and mushy for salad.
• Watery cucumbers – Pat dry after slicing to avoid diluting the dressing.
• Overdressing – Add dressing gradually to keep salad crisp.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Best eaten fresh.
• Do not freeze: Mangoes and cucumbers lose texture when frozen.
• Reheat: Not applicable—this salad is served chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, chop ingredients ahead but toss with dressing just before serving.

Can I use green mango instead of ripe?
Yes! Green mango adds tang and crunch, giving it a Thai street-food vibe.

Is it spicy?
It can be mild or hot depending on how much chili you add.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 20g

Conclusion

Thai Mango Cucumber Salad is a bright, refreshing dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine sweet, sour, salty, and spicy all in one bowl. With juicy mangoes, crunchy cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing, it’s the perfect salad for summer meals, barbecues, or as a fresh side to bold main courses. Light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, this salad is one you’ll come back to again and again.

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October 3, 2025 by Melissa