Sweet Spicy Mango Dressing

This sweet and spicy mango salad dressing transforms any salad from ordinary to extraordinary with minimal effort. It balances tropical fruitiness with a bright citrus kick and a subtle heat that brightens up not only greens but also grilled meats and seafood. It’s a vibrant and refreshing dressing that livens up weeknight meals or adds a special touch for entertaining.

I first made this dressing when I wanted to brighten a simple green salad, and now I toss it on everything from shrimp bowls to grilled chicken. It’s become a staple that I reach for every spring and summer.

Gather Your Ingredients

• One large ripe mango: peeled pitted and roughly chopped — the star ingredient for sweetness and smooth texture; choose mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure
• Quarter cup fresh lime juice: about two medium limes — adds acidity and zing; fresh juice is key for brightness
• Quarter cup fresh orange juice: for sweetness and a subtle fruity layer; use freshly squeezed when possible
• Two tablespoons honey: to enhance natural fruit sugars and balance the heat
• Half teaspoon cumin: that lends warmth and earthiness to complement the sweetness
• One clove garlic: for a touch of pungency and depth of flavor; fresh and finely minced works best
• Half teaspoon salt: to enhance all the flavors and keep the dressing balanced
• One third cup extra virgin olive oil: to add silkiness and a rich mouthfeel; choose a mild, fruity oil for best results
• One tablespoon finely chopped medium-heat chili pepper like Fresno or jalapeño: for heat and freshness
• Two tablespoons finely chopped cilantro: for brightness and herbal fragrance
• Quarter teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: for gentle spice and complexity

How to Make It

Combine:

Combine mango lime juice orange juice honey cumin garlic and salt in a blender container. Puree on medium speed until smooth. Transfer to a medium size jar

Add oil:

Add oil to the mixture in the jar in a slow steady stream while stirring continuously with a fork or small whisk to emulsify

Add seasonings:

Add finely chopped chili pepper cilantro and black pepper. Taste and add a bit more salt if needed

Store:

Store in refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using

My favorite ingredient here is fresh mango because it brings such a bright natural sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm and pairs beautifully with chili heat. I remember drizzling this over grilled salmon one summer at a family cookout and everyone kept going back for seconds and thirds it was a true crowd-pleaser.

Flavor Boosters

Store the dressing in a tightly sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to one week. Shake or stir well before each use as the oil and citrus tend to separate naturally. Avoid keeping it at room temperature as the fresh ingredients are best enjoyed chilled.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing goes beyond salads. Drizzle it over grilled shrimp or chicken for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with avocado slices or roasted vegetables. You can even use it as a dipping sauce for crispy spring rolls or fresh fruit.

Creative Twists

Mangoes are a staple fruit in tropical climates and their peak season often coincides with warmer months, making this dressing a perfect fresh complement to summer meals. The combination of chili and citrus is common in Latin American and Southeast Asian cuisine where bold flavors unite sweetness and heat effortlessly.

This dressing is a quick and vibrant way to elevate simple salads and grilled dishes. Keep adjusting the chili and salt to find your perfect balance every time.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of chili pepper works best?

Medium heat peppers like Fresno or jalapeño complement the sweetness without overpowering the dressing.

→ Can this dressing be stored?

Yes, keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to one week. Shake before use to recombine ingredients.

→ What dishes pair well with this dressing?

It's excellent on salads, and also delicious drizzled over grilled salmon, shrimp, or chicken.

→ Is fresh mango necessary?

Fresh ripe mango provides the best natural sweetness and texture, enhancing the dressing's bright flavor.

→ How is the dressing emulsified?

Olive oil is slowly added while whisking to create a smooth, well-blended dressing.