Thai Green Mango Salad Recipe

Toast cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and aromatic, 4–6 minutes. Remove to a plate to cool, then roughly chop. In the same skillet, toast peanuts 1–2 minutes just to warm and release aroma if not already roasted. Set aside. If using sesame seeds, toast 30–45 seconds until lightly golden.

Peel the green mangoes. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline/peeler, slice mango flesh into thin matchsticks (julienne) about 1/8–1/4 inch wide. Alternatively, cut around the large seed and slice flesh into thin strips. Place mango strips in a large mixing bowl.

Core and seed the red bell pepper, then cut into thin strips similar in size to the mango. Add to the bowl.

Peel and thinly slice the red onion (or shallot) into half-moons. If raw onion is very sharp, soak slices in cold water for 5 minutes and drain to mellow. Add to the bowl.

If using carrot, peel and julienne to match the mango strips and add to the bowl.

Roughly chop fresh cilantro and basil/mint; reserve about 1 tablespoon of herbs for garnish and add the rest to the bowl.

In a small bowl, combine fish sauce, fresh lime juice, and brown/palm sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.

Add minced garlic and minced chili. Taste and adjust balance: you want a salty-sour-sweet-hot harmony. Add an extra teaspoon of sugar if too tart, or 1 tsp more fish sauce if too sour. Stir in 1 teaspoon oil if desired for a silkier mouthfeel.

Pour the dressing over the mango, pepper, onion, carrot and herbs. Toss gently but thoroughly with two spoons or salad tongs so the dressing coats all pieces.

Add roughly chopped toasted cashews and roasted peanuts to the salad, reserving a small handful for garnish. Toss lightly to distribute.

Taste and adjust seasoning: add a splash more lime or fish sauce as needed, or a pinch of sugar to balance. Let the salad sit 5–10 minutes to marry flavors, but serve within 30 minutes so mango stays crisp.

Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with reserved herbs, remaining chopped nuts, and toasted sesame seeds if using.