Mango vinaigrette is a vibrant and tangy dressing that adds a burst of tropical flavor to any salad. This sweet, sour, and slightly spicy vinaigrette is incredibly easy to make and will elevate your salad game to a whole new level. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is for you.
The Story of Vinaigrette: A Brief History
Did you know that vinaigrette, in its most basic form, has been around for centuries? It’s believed to have originated in France as a simple mixture of oil and vinegar. The word “vinaigrette” itself comes from the French word for vinegar, “vinaigre.” Over time, this simple dressing evolved, incorporating new ingredients and flavors from around the world. The addition of mango, a fruit native to South Asia, is a testament to this culinary evolution, bringing a touch of exotic sweetness to a classic dressing.
Your Shopping List: Ingredients for Mango Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Toasted sesame seeds
Ingredient Notes:
- Mango: Choose a ripe but firm mango for the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh mangoes, you can use frozen mango chunks, thawed.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar adds a pleasant tanginess. You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a milder flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Honey: Adjust the amount of honey to your liking, depending on the sweetness of the mango.
Tools of the Trade: What You’ll Need
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Mason jar or airtight container for storage
Let’s Get Started: Making Your Mango Vinaigrette
- Prepare the mango: Peel and dice the mango into small pieces.
- Combine ingredients: In your mixing bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, red onion, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the mango: Gently fold in the diced mango.
- Taste and adjust: Give your vinaigrette a taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or honey depending on your taste buds.
Tips for Mango Vinaigrette Perfection
- For a smoother vinaigrette: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend all the ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Don’t over-whisk: Over-whisking the vinaigrette can cause it to separate.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and intensify over time.
