Thai Mango Cucumber Salad: Discover the Perfect Recipe!

Name: Thai Mango Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 ripe mangoes, diced; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

Delicious Thai Mango Cucumber Salad served in a bowl with bright ingredients.

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A Vibrant Taste of Thailand in Your Bowl

There’s something special about a crisp, refreshing salad on a hot day, and this Thai Mango Cucumber Salad is the epitome of that experience. Bursting with sweet mango, crunchy cucumber, and zesty lime, it’s the perfect dish to brighten up your table any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, looking for a quick weeknight side dish, or simply wanting a healthy snack that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this salad hits all the right notes. I discovered this recipe during a trip to Thailand where the balance of flavors amazed me, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Wondering why you should whip up this Thai Mango Cucumber Salad in your kitchen? For starters, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy evenings or unexpected guests. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors create an appealing dish that’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, utilizing seasonal produce that won’t break the bank.

"This salad quickly became a family favorite! It’s not only nutritious but refreshingly delicious. Can’t believe how easy it was to make!" — Happy Reviewer

With its exotic flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s truly fantastic for summer barbecues, pool parties, or light lunches. Every bite is a celebration of freshness that transports you straight to the streets of Thailand.

Preparing Thai Mango Cucumber Salad: An Overview

When it comes to making this salad, it’s all about layering flavors and textures to achieve that perfect balance. The process is straightforward, making it enjoyable for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. Here’s how it comes together in a snap:

Combine chopped ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced mangoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
Create the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, honey, and optional chili flakes.
Bring it all together: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Let it sit: Allow the salad to meld for about 10 minutes for improved flavor before serving.

Now that you know the basics, let’s gather our ingredients!

Gather These Items

For this delightful Thai Mango Cucumber Salad, you’ll need:

2 ripe mangoes, diced
1 large cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Feel free to customize the salad by swapping out the vegetables or vinegars depending on the season or what you have available!

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the diced mangoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, honey, and chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all the flavors.
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

How you serve this Thai Mango Cucumber Salad can elevate the dish even further. Consider serving it in a large, beautiful bowl to showcase the vibrant colors. You could also plate it individually, garnished with a sprig of cilantro or a wedge of lime for added flair.

Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, or serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside spicy Thai curry. It also complements tortilla chips wonderfully if you’re looking for a unique appetizer!

How to Keep Leftovers Fresh

If you happen to have any leftovers, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within a day or two, as the ingredients may start to lose their crunch and the dressing can make the salad watery.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To enhance the flavor of your salad, choose ripe mangoes that yield slightly to pressure and have a sweet aroma. Also, feel free to adjust the lime juice and honey to suit your taste — balancing tanginess and sweetness is key to a great salad. And don’t skip the resting time after mixing; it’s crucial for allowing the flavors to develop.

Creative Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are some tasty twists for your Thai Mango Cucumber Salad:

Add nuts: For a protein boost, try adding roasted peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch.
Go vegan: Substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos for a plant-based option.
Try different fruits: Incorporate other tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya for more variety.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to prepare this Thai Mango Cucumber Salad?
Preparation is quick! It generally takes about 15-20 minutes to gather the ingredients and combine everything.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead. Just store the components separately and assemble them on the day you intend to serve.

3. What can I substitute for fish sauce in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a substitute, soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and lime juice can work well for a similar umami taste.

4. Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, ensure you use a gluten-free fish sauce or soy sauce. To lower calories, you can reduce or omit honey.

5. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of fresh vegetables won’t hold up well once thawed. Try to consume it fresh for the best taste.

6. What types of mangoes work best?
Choose ripe, sweet varieties such as Haden or Ataulfo mangoes for the best flavor. They should be slightly soft to touch when ripe.

7. How do I know if my mango is ripe?
Ripe mangoes typically will give slightly to a gentle squeeze and have a sweet fragrance when near the stem.

8. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat to keep everything crisp and fresh!