Mango Caprese Salad Recipe
Mango Caprese Salad is a vibrant, refreshing twist on a classic favourite, combining juicy ripe mango, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, extra-virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt. This easy no-cook salad recipe favourite is colourful, delicious and perfect for lunches, BBQs, appetisers or entertaining.
Equipment
- 1 Sharp Serrated Or Chef's Knife
- 1 Small Paring Knife –
- 1 Chopping Board
- 1 Large Serving Platter –
- 1 Kitchen Paper:
- 1 Small Spoon
- 1 Small Bowl –
Ingredients
- 2 Large Ripe Mangoes
- 450 g Fresh Mozzarella
- 30 g Fresh Basil Leaves
- 3 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- ½ Teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt - Or To Taste
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice
- ¼ Teaspoon Chilli Flakes
- A Few Extra Basil Leaves For Garnishing
Instructions
Step 1: Choose And Prepare The Mango
- Select ripe but firm mangoes.
- Wash and peel the mangoes.
- Slice the flesh away from the stones.
- Cut the mango into slices approximately 5–10mm thick.
Step 2: Prepare The Mozzarella
- Drain the mozzarella and remove excess liquid.
- Pat it gently dry with kitchen paper.
- Slice larger mozzarella balls into rounds similar in thickness to the mango.
- Drain and pat mozzarella pearls dry if using.
Step 3: Prepare The Basil
- Rinse the basil leaves gently under cool water.
- Pat them dry.
- Keep the leaves whole where possible.
- Tear particularly large leaves gently by hand if needed.
Step 4: Make The Optional Lime Dressing
- Combine the olive oil and fresh lime juice in a small bowl.
- Add the chilli flakes if using.
- Whisk briefly until combined.
Step 5: Start The Assembly
- Place a mango slice on the serving platter.
- Add a basil leaf followed by a slice of mozzarella.
- Continue alternating mango, basil and mozzarella until the platter is filled.
Step 6: Season Carefully
- Sprinkle the flaky sea salt lightly over the salad.
- Drizzle with fresh lime juice if using.
- Avoid adding too much salt at once.
Step 7: Add The Olive Oil
- Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the mango, mozzarella and basil.
- If using the lime dressing, distribute it gently across the platter.
- Avoid flooding the salad with oil.
Step 8: Garnish And Serve
- Garnish with a few extra basil leaves.
- Add another small pinch of flaky sea salt if needed.
- Serve the Mango Caprese Salad immediately.
Notes
- 🥭 Ripe Mangoes: Choose fragrant, juicy mangoes that are ripe but still firm enough to slice neatly.
- 🧀 Fresh Mozzarella: Use good-quality fresh mozzarella for a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the mango.
- 🌿 Fresh Basil: Add plenty of fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, herbaceous flavour and beautiful colour.
- 🫒 Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzle lightly over the salad to bring the mango and mozzarella together.
- 🧂 Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkle sparingly to enhance the natural sweetness of the mango and richness of the mozzarella.
- 🍋 Fresh Lime Juice: Add a small amount for a bright, zesty finish that keeps the flavours fresh.
- 🌶️ Chilli Flakes: Add optionally for a gentle spicy contrast to the sweet mango.
- 🍽️ Serving Tip: Assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest texture and most vibrant presentation.
- ❄️ Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 24 hours for the best quality.
- 🌈 Serving Idea: Serve this colourful Mango Caprese Salad as a starter, side dish, light lunch, or refreshing accompaniment to grilled foods.