Mango Strawberry Avocado Edamame Salsa

Brighten up any meal with this unbelievably vibrant Mango Strawberry Avocado Edamame Salsa! This refreshing medley bursts with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it the perfect companion for a variety of dishes or simply enjoyed on its own. It’s an explosion of color and fresh taste that will undoubtedly become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Fresh: Packed with seasonal fruits and crisp vegetables for a lively taste.
• Quick & Easy: Whipped up in mere minutes with minimal prep time.
• Versatile: Fantastic as a dip, side dish, or topping for proteins.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and ingredients to your preference.
• Visually Stunning: Its gorgeous colors make it a showstopper at any gathering.

Ingredients

Gathering these fresh ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful salsa.

For the Salsa:

• 2 medium mangoes, diced (about 2 cups / 330 g)
• 1 cup (155 g) shelled edamame, thawed
• 1 cup (255 g) strawberries, diced
• 1 medium avocado, diced (about 175 g)
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) finely diced red onion
• 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
• ¼ cup (60 ml) thinly sliced fresh basil (chiffonade)
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) sesame oil (or a neutral oil like avocado)
• Zest of 1 lime
• ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lime juice (from about 1 large lime)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) maple syrup (or agave nectar)
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 g) sea salt, or to taste

For Serving (Optional):

• Tortilla chips

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Mangoes: Choose ripe but firm mangoes. If they’re too soft, they’ll become mushy when diced. Any variety will work, just ensure they have that tropical sweetness.

Edamame: Frozen shelled edamame is convenient; simply thaw it before adding. It adds a lovely texture and a boost of protein.

Jalapeño: Remove the seeds and white membrane for less heat. For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Fresh Herbs: Basil and cilantro bring incredible freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, increase the basil or try fresh mint.

Lime Zest & Juice: Don’t skip the zest! It contains essential oils that amplify the citrusy brightness in the dressing. Freshly squeezed juice is a must.

Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity from the lime and the savory notes. Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Citrus zester or microplane
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious mango strawberry avocado edamame salsa.

Step 1: Prepare the Salsa Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mangoes, thawed edamame, diced strawberries, diced avocado, finely diced red onion, finely diced jalapeño, sliced basil, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss to mix.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime zest, fresh lime juice, maple syrup, and salt until well combined. Taste and adjust salt or sweetness as needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Pour the prepared dressing over the fruit and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are lightly coated. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or as desired.

Pro Tips

• Dice Evenly: For the best texture and visual appeal, try to dice all your solid ingredients into roughly similar-sized pieces.
• Gentle Hand: Avocado can bruise easily. Mix the salsa gently to keep the avocado pieces intact.
• Chill for Flavor: While delicious immediately, letting the salsa chill for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salsa. Adjust salt, sweetness, or lime juice to suit your preference.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salsa pairs wonderfully with so many dishes!

• Serve as a fresh appetizer with crispy tortilla chips or pita bread.
• Spoon over grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a burst of flavor.
• Use as a topping for tacos or burrito bowls.
• Enjoy as a vibrant side salad alongside any main course.
• Add a dollop to scrambled eggs or omelets for a tropical breakfast twist.

Storage & Reheating

This salsa is best enjoyed fresh due to the avocado, which can brown over time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. To minimize browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa before sealing the container. This salsa is not suitable for freezing.

Variations & Substitutions

• Add More Spice: For extra heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Tropical Twist: Incorporate other tropical fruits like pineapple or kiwi for an even more exotic flavor profile.
• Crunch Factor: Toasted pepitas or chopped cashews can add a delightful crunch.
• Different Veggies: Consider adding finely diced bell peppers (red or yellow) for additional color and sweetness.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked, cooled quinoa or black beans for a heartier side dish.

Nutrition Information

A single serving of this refreshing salsa provides approximately 342 calories, offering a good balance of macronutrients with around 43 grams of carbohydrates, 10 grams of protein, and 18 grams of healthy fats, including 3 grams of saturated fat. It’s also an excellent source of dietary fiber, contributing about 12 grams, and contains 12 grams of sugar with a modest 45 mg of sodium.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

A: You can chop all the ingredients for the salsa and whisk the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and prevent it from browning.

Q: What if I don’t like cilantro?

A: Feel free to omit the cilantro entirely or substitute it with more fresh basil or even fresh mint for a different, refreshing twist.

Q: How do I choose a ripe mango?

A: A ripe mango will yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. It should also have a fragrant, sweet aroma near the stem. The color isn’t always an indicator of ripeness, as it varies by type.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?

A: While fresh strawberries are ideal for texture, you could use frozen ones if thawed and drained very well to avoid excess moisture, though the texture might be softer.

Q: What kind of oil can I use if I don’t have sesame oil?

A: A neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or light olive oil would work perfectly as a substitute for sesame oil in the dressing.

Indulge in this bright and beautiful salsa that brings together the best of sweet fruits and savory garden delights. It’s a simple, healthy dish that delivers big on flavor and visual appeal, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious.

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