Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp

Name: Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 ripe mangoes, julienned; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup cucumber, julienned; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Author: Lora

Published: June 6, 2025

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Introduction to Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp

Picture this: a light, refreshing dish that dances on your taste buds and takes you to a breezy beach in Thailand. That’s what you get with this Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp. It’s the perfect quick solution for those busy days when you want something healthy but absolutely delicious. As a mom juggling a million tasks, I know all too well the struggle of making meals that wow my family without taking hours in the kitchen. This recipe beautifully blends fresh flavors, making it a simple yet impressive dish for loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp

One of the best things about this Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp is its effortless appeal. You can whip it up in just 21 minutes, which fits perfectly into even the busiest schedules. The vibrant flavors uplift your spirits, while the crisp textures satisfy your hunger. Plus, it’s not just a feast for the palate; it’s a visual delight that’s sure to impress your family or guests!

Ingredients for Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp

This Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp bursts with freshness, thanks to its vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

Shrimp: The star of the dish! Use peeled and deveined shrimp for grilling to add a juicy, succulent touch to the salad.
Mango: Ripe mangoes bring a sweet, tropical flair. Choose mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a crunchy texture and a pop of color. Sweet and juicy, it’s a fantastic counterpart to the mango.
Cucumber: For a refreshing crunch! Julienne the cucumber to keep it light and zesty.
Cilantro: Fresh herbs brighten up any dish. Cilantro adds a hint of earthiness that balances the salad perfectly.
Lime Juice: A must for that zesty kick! Freshly squeezed lime juice adds zing and helps tie all flavors together.
Fish Sauce: Don’t be intimidated! This gives the salad its umami depth. Use sparingly, and feel free to adjust to taste.
Sugar: Just a hint of sweetness balances out the tanginess of the lime and fish sauce.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavors and keeps the salad fresh.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the dish. Adjust to your liking!

For exact measurements, be sure to check the bottom of the article, where you can find everything organized for printing. Feel free to get creative with ingredient substitutes or extras you love, such as avocado or peanuts to add that extra flair!

How to Make Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the exciting part—making this Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp! I promise, it’s easier than flipping a pancake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful dish ready to impress.

Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps lock in the flavors and gives the shrimp that amazing grilled taste.

In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple combination works wonders.

If you have a few minutes, let the shrimp marinate for 15-30 minutes. It’s like a mini-vacation for your ingredients, soaking up those delicious flavors before grilling!

Once your grill is ready, lay the shrimp down. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn a gorgeous pink color when cooked through. Trust me, the smell will make your mouth water!

Make the Salad Base

While your shrimp sizzles away, it’s time to make the salad base.

In a large bowl, combine the julienned mango, sliced red bell pepper, and cucumber. Don’t be shy; toss them gently to mix.

Add the chopped cilantro, bringing a fresh, herbal aroma. It’s like a mini garden party in your bowl!

Whisk the Dressing

No salad is complete without dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix until the sugar dissolves—this doesn’t take long!

Feel free to adjust the lime juice and fish sauce to your taste. If you’re unsure, start with less and add more until you hit that sweet spot.

Combine and Serve

Now for the grand finale! Pour the dressing over your vibrant salad. Use your hands or tongs to gently toss everything together.

Finally, top the salad with your perfectly grilled shrimp. Serve immediately for the freshest experience. Your Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp is ready to be devoured!

Enjoy the crunch, the sweetness, and all those zesty flavors coming together in one delightful dish. Now, wasn’t that easier than a Monday morning coffee run?

Tips for Success

Choose ripe mangoes for maximum sweetness. The best ones should yield slightly when squeezed.
Marinate the shrimp before grilling to enhance the flavors and juiciness.
Feel free to adjust the dressing to suit your taste. A little extra lime goes a long way!
Serve your salad right after tossing for that fresh crunch and colorful presentation.
Prepare extra shrimp for a delightful lunch the next day!

Equipment Needed

Grill: A traditional outdoor grill or a stovetop grill pan will work wonders.
Bowl: Use a large mixing bowl for the salad and a smaller one for the dressing.
Tongs: Essential for grilling shrimp and tossing the salad.
Whisk: Perfect for blending your dressing elements seamlessly.

Variations

Add Avocado: For a creamy twist, consider adding diced avocado. It complements the salad’s freshness beautifully.
Substitute the Protein: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu if you prefer different proteins. The salad will still shine!
Go Spicy: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Vegan Option: Leave out the fish sauce and use soy sauce or coconut aminos for a vegan-friendly dressing.
Change the Greens: Incorporate fresh greens like spinach or arugula for a salad that’s even more nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Jasmine Rice: A side of fluffy jasmine rice complements the salad beautifully.
Refresh with Coconut Water: Serve refreshing coconut water or a zesty lemonade for a delightful drink.
Garnish with Lime Wedges: Place lime wedges on the side for an extra splash of citrus when serving.
Beautiful Serving Dish: Use a large, colorful platter to showcase the vibrant salad and grilled shrimp.

FAQs about Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp

Can I make the Thai Mango Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad base a few hours in advance. Just keep the shrimp and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays fresh and crunchy!

What can I use instead of fish sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute, soy sauce or coconut aminos work great. They provide a similar depth of flavor without the fishiness, making it suitable for vegetarians, too!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp are a convenient option! Just be sure to thaw them properly before seasoning and grilling. They’ll taste just as delightful in your salad.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. However, keep the shrimp and salad separate if possible to maintain texture.

Is this Thai Mango Salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Pack individual servings in containers, and enjoy a healthy and colorful lunch throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

Making this Thai Mango Salad with Grilled Shrimp is like taking a mini vacation in your kitchen. The vibrant colors and flavors create a joyful experience that brings smiles at the dinner table. I love how quickly it comes together, making it a lifesaver for busy nights. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this dish is bound to impress! Each bite offers a burst of freshness that reminds us to savor life, one delicious salad at a time. So grab your ingredients, and let’s add a little Thai magic to your next meal!