Avocado Mango Salad with Arugula, Pine Nuts, and Honey-Lime Dressing

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Introduction:
Avocado Mango Salad with Arugula, Pine Nuts, and Honey-Lime Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines creamy avocados, sweet mangoes, and peppery arugula in a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Drizzled with a zesty honey-lime dressing and sprinkled with toasted pine nuts, this salad is a perfect choice for a light lunch or as an exotic side that complements any meal, especially during the warmer months.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 4 cups arugula, washed and dried
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • Optional addition: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • Optional addition: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Honey-Lime Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dressing:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, and minced garlic until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  1. Toast the Pine Nuts:
  • In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  1. Assemble the Salad:
  • In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, sliced avocados, and sliced mangoes. If using, add the thinly sliced red onion.
  • Drizzle the prepared honey-lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat the ingredients evenly.
  1. Garnish and Serve:
  • Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the salad. If desired, add crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
  • Serve immediately to ensure the salad remains fresh and vibrant.

Tips for Success:

  • Choose ripe but firm avocados and mangoes to prevent them from becoming mushy in the salad.
  • If preparing in advance, add the avocado slices and dressing just before serving to prevent the avocados from browning.
  • The lime juice in the dressing will help keep the avocados green, but it’s best enjoyed shortly after assembling.

Recommendation:
This Avocado Mango Salad is a fantastic addition to any summer barbecue or as a vibrant starter for a dinner party. Its fresh, tropical flavors pair beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled salmon or shrimp skewers. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad is sure to impress guests and provide a refreshing contrast to more savory dishes.

Enjoy the fresh, tropical taste of Avocado Mango Salad with Arugula, Pine Nuts, and Honey-Lime Dressing, a perfect dish to brighten your table and palate!

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