| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 300 | 14g | 2g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 26g | 5g | 6g | 0.03g |
Why I Love Spanish Mixed Salad with Mango and Nuts
Hello to all my fellow food lovers! As we all know, I am passionate about bringing my Italian-American culinary history to the digital world, but today, I’ve ventured a little further from my roots with a delightful creation. I am thrilled to introduce a taste of Spain with the vibrant and fresh Mixed Salad with Mango and Nuts.
The Inspiration Behind The Spanish Mix
Though my usual dishes are a nostalgic homage to my Italian heritage, I have always been enamored by the simplicity and bold flavors of traditional Spanish cuisine. This recipe’s inspiration came from none other than the legendary Spanish chef, José Andrés, whose love for vibrant salads moved me to try my hand at this wonderful recipe.
Much like my traditional spaghetti and meatballs dish, this salad also lays emphasis on fresh ingredients and heartfelt preparation. It doesn’t shy away from mixing flavors that on the surface might seem disparate, but in combination create a harmony of taste that is irresistible. Rich mangoes, crunchy nuts, and an array of fresh greens provide the perfect blend of textures, while a tangy dressing adds the final note to the symphony of flavors.
Perfect Combinations
The Mixed Salad with Mango and Nuts isn’t just a standalone wonder; it plays well with others too. I find that this salad pairs brilliantly with grilled chicken or seared fish, making it versatile for any meal.
It is similar in concept to the traditional Italian insalata, but the Spanish influence brings a unique twist. As a side note, you could also replace mangoes with peaches or watermelon, especially when mangoes are not in season.
In conclusion, the Mixed Salad with Mango and Nuts embodies the essence of Mediterranean culinary ethos – fresh, flavorful, and vibrant. It is a dish that will take you on a culinary journey to Spain, a pleasurable escape amid our busy lives. I hope you all enjoy it as much as my family and I do!
What You’ll Need
- 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and cubed
- 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), toasted
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
Method
Step One
To start, prepare all your fresh ingredients. Peel and cube the ripe mangoes, peel and cube the cucumber, chop the tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, finely chop the fresh basil leaves.
Step Two
Spread the nuts evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for a few minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Keep an eye on them as they roast to ensure they don’t get burnt. Once done, set them aside to cool.
Step Three
Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, juice of one large lemon, honey, salt and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Step Four
In a large bowl, put together the mixed salad greens, cubed mangoes, cubed cucumber, chopped tomatoes, toasted nuts and sliced red onions. Mix them well.
Step Five
Drizzle your salad with the dressing and toss until the salad is evenly coated. Sprinkle over the chopped fresh basil leaves and give it a final toss.
Step Six
Your Mixed Salad with Mango and Nuts is ready to be serving. For best flavor, serve immediately. Enjoy!
