| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 8g | 1g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 28g | 5g | 6g | 0.01g |
There’s an undeniable magic in diving into a bowl of fruit simply bathed in color, one that bursts with unadulterated flavor and the wholesomeness of the earth’s yield. This is exactly how I feel about the Gac fruit and mango salad. It isn’t merely a dish; it’s a symphony of nature’s best and a testament to their transformative power in our bodies and our kitchens.
The Homely Appeal
My Midwestern roots and the heartland’s abundance have shaped me into a cook who revels in farm-fresh fare. And while corn casserole and beef stew might fill the hearth and home with warmth, this salad transcends comfort to infuse the palate with vibrant, tropical notes.
As an added touch, the crispness of romaine lettuce serves as the perfect canvas for these fruits, lending a cool crunchiness to contrast the creamy textures of the Gac fruit and mango. The choice to garnish with crushed peanuts lends an additional depth, creating a balance between the sweet, tart fruits and the slightly earthy undertone of the nuts. It’s akin to the perfect harmony in a classic fruit salad, but with an unconventional twist.
Elevating Health & Happiness
Sure, this salad is delicious, but what truly draws me to it is its nutritional prowess. The Gac fruit, dubbed the “fruit from heaven”, is packed with befriending carotenoids and antioxidants that proactively serve our health. Combined with mango – a true powerhouse of Vitamins C and A – and lime, renowned for its digestive benefits, this salad becomes likened to a elixir of health, dressed in a delightful medley of colors and tastes.
But remember, it’s not just about what’s in the salad, but also what accompanies it. This salad would make an excellent companion to grilled chicken or a decadent Greek-style fish, or even stand out perfectly well on its own for a light, revivifying lunch. Its sweet and tangy notes, topped with a hint of mint, provide a refreshing balance to a range of dishes.
In the end, the Gac fruit and mango salad captures what my culinary journey is all about: bringing forth the beauty and bountiful benefits of simple, fresh ingredients, and allowing their flavors to dance together in healthful, tasty harmony. I hope you get as much joy out of eating it as I have developing and refining this recipe. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 2 ripe Gac fruits (about 1 pound each)
- 3 ripe mangos
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 6 leaves of Romaine lettuce, optional for presentation
- Pinch of salt
Method
Step One
Start by preparing your fruits. Cut the gac fruits and mangos into small, bite-sized pieces. For the gac fruit, only the flesh inside is edible so discard the rind. Carefully cut the mangos to avoid the pit in the centre.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the cut gac fruit and mango chunks. Pour the fresh lime juice over the fruits. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated in the lime juice, this will bring out the flavors of the fruits and prevent them from browning.
Step Three
Add the honey to the fruit mixture. A tablespoon of honey will add a gentle sweetness to the salad but you can adjust this to your own taste.
Step Four
Add in the freshly chopped mint leaves and a pinch of salt. Give your salad another gentle mix to distribute the mint and salt evenly.
Step Five
Prepare the Romaine lettuce leaves by washing them thoroughly, pat dry with a kitchen towel. Arrange the leaves on a serving plate, creating a bed for your fruit salad.
Step Six
Transfer the fruit salad to the bed of Romaine lettuce leaves you just prepared. Spread it out evenly over the leaves.
Step Seven
Garnish with the crushed, roasted peanuts. This will give some crunch to your salad, offering a nice contrast against the soft fruits.
Step Eight
The Gac fruit and mango salad is now ready to be served. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste. Remember you can chill it for a while in the refrigerator if you prefer a colder salad.
