Mango Habanero Cucumber Salad

I like a great cucumber salad, however each on occasion it’s enjoyable to vary issues up and this one is for certain to show some heads. It’s bought all of the crisp, refreshing cucumbers you’d count on, however as an alternative of a primary French dressing, every thing will get tossed in a contemporary mango dressing with simply sufficient habanero to get up your mouth. It’s candy, tangy, a bit spicy, and surprisingly arduous to cease consuming.

Don’t let the habanero scare you off. You may make it as spicy or as gentle as you need, and the sweetness from the mango retains every thing actually contemporary. It’s certainly one of my favourite sides for something coming off the grill, however actually, I’ve been identified to eat a bowl of it for lunch too.

Ingredient Notes

• Cucumber: English cucumbers or common cucumbers each work. If utilizing backyard cucumbers with giant seeds, it’s possible you’ll wish to scoop them out earlier than slicing.
• Pink Onion: Slice it as thinly as attainable for one of the best texture. If you happen to desire a milder onion taste, soak the slices in chilly water for 10 minutes earlier than including them to the salad.
• Mango: Select ripe mangoes that give barely when gently squeezed. In the event that they’re too agency, they received’t mix as easily or style as candy.
• Habanero Pepper: Take away the seeds and membranes for much less warmth. Put on gloves whereas dealing with if in case you have delicate pores and skin, and keep away from touching your face.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed has the brightest taste, however bottled will work too.
• Lemon Juice: Contemporary lemon juice is most popular, although bottled will work too.
• Contemporary Cilantro: If you happen to’re serving cilantro skeptics, you may substitute contemporary parsley for a unique however nonetheless contemporary taste.
• Salt: Common desk salt is what I’m utilizing right here.

How Spicy Is It?

One habanero provides this salad a noticeable kick, however the sweetness of the mango helps steadiness the warmth.

If you happen to desire a milder salad, use solely half of the pepper or be additional cautious to take away the entire seeds and white membranes earlier than mixing.

If you happen to’re a warmth lover, depart a few of the seeds in or add a second habanero.

Make Forward Suggestions

You may make the mango dressing as much as 2 days forward and preserve it refrigerated till you’re able to serve.

As soon as the salad is tossed collectively, it’s greatest loved inside just a few hours whereas the cucumbers are nonetheless good and crisp.

If you happen to’re making it forward for a celebration, wait to mix every thing till simply earlier than serving.

Serving Strategies

This salad is correct at residence subsequent to something coming off the grill. Serve it with grilled rooster, shrimp, fish, pork, or steak.

It’s additionally nice with tacos, particularly fish or shrimp tacos, and makes a contemporary facet for burgers or pulled pork sandwiches.