Mango Salad
A vibrant and refreshing mango salad with a tangy lemon jello twist, perfect for warm days or as a cool dessert. The creamy mango mixture combined with the citrusy jello creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, appealing to fruit lovers and those seeking a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use mango juice and water to make 3 cups of liquid.
- Dissolve lemon jello in the heated liquid.
- Blend the canned mangos and softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the dissolved jello to the mango and cream cheese mixture and blend well.
- Pour into a dish and chill until set.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of fresh lime juice to the mango and cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Alternatively, you can use fresh mangoes if they're in season for a fresher taste. Make sure the jello is fully dissolved before blending to avoid clumps.
Serving Suggestions
This mango salad is a delightful dessert on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a refreshing meal. Consider serving it alongside a light green salad or as part of a buffet with other American recipes for a summer gathering. Garnish with mint leaves for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover mango salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad begins to separate, simply give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese and mango may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mango Salad contains roughly 99 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh mangoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh mangoes! Just ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor. You'll need about 2-3 medium fresh mangoes to equal the amount in a 29 oz. can. Peel, chop, and blend them until smooth, just like you would with the canned version.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes about 4-6 hours to chill and set properly in the refrigerator. For quicker results, you can make it the night before serving. Just make sure it's covered tightly to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this mango salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients apart from the cream cheese. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese substitute and make sure your jello is vegetarian-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).