Cucumber and Mango Salad

When it’s hot out, I want everything cold, crisp, and eaten straight from a bowl. This Cucumber and Mango Salad is exactly that kind of situation. It’s juicy, sweet, and a little spicy, and somehow manages to feel exciting with very little effort.

What I love most is how everything plays together. Crisp cucumber and soft, ripe mango do most of the work, while fresh mint and basil keep it bright and a little unexpected. The honey, lemon, and Aleppo pepper pull it all into balance so it never leans too sweet, just really fresh and very easy to keep eating.

It comes together in about 15 minutes, which feels right for something you’ll want to make on repeat all summer. Simple enough for a weekday lunch, but still special enough to put out when people come over.

Why this salad is worth making this summer

• It’s incredibly refreshing and hydrating, making it perfect for hot summer days!
• Sweet mango, crisp cucumber, and plenty of fresh mint and basil make this feel bright with just enough richness from the honey and olive oil to keep everything balanced.
• It works equally well as a light lunch as it does alongside anything grilled or set out at a summer table.

Ingredients you’ll need for this cucumber and mango salad

• 2 large (1 1/2 lbs) seedless cucumbers
• 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1 lemon, for juicing
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large mango
• 1/2 large red onion
• 1 cup fresh mint
• 1 cup fresh basil

Ingredient substitutions

• Cucumber: Can be swapped for other crunchy vegetables like celery, peppers, etc.
• Lemon: Swap for lime juice or a splash of rice vinegar for a softer acidity
• Aleppo pepper: Can be swapped for red pepper flakes
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave would work perfectly
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Swap for avocado oil, grapeseed oil, really any oil you like!
• Mango: Can be swapped for peaches, nectarines, or pineapple
• Red onion: Swap for shallot, yellow onion, or sweet white onion

How to bring the salad together

This salad is simple and quick. The most work is the chopping, but after that, it’s really just assembly. Here’s how to pull it all together:

1. Halve the cucumbers lengthwise, then use the flat side of your knife to smash them, cut-side down. Slice into pieces lengthwise.
2. Transfer the cucumbers to a large bowl and season generously with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Toss to coat and set aside to draw out excess liquid.
3. In another large bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of Aleppo pepper, 3 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Chop up the red onion, mango, mint, and basil and add them to the dressing.
4. Use a slotted spoon to scoop the cucumbers out of their bowl, leaving behind any excess water. Add them to the bowl and toss everything together.
5. Taste and season with more salt, honey, or olive oil as preferred.

Storage tips and how to prep ahead of time

This salad is definitely best enjoyed immediately, however, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days. The mango and cucumber will release liquid over time, and the herbs may soften.

If you’d like to prep it ahead of time, you can prep the cucumber, mango, and dressing and keep them all in separate airtight containers. Toss everything together just before serving, and add the herbs at the last minute so they stay fresh and vibrant.

Unfortunately, I do not recommend freezing this salad.

Watch the recipe here

The video may not fully represent the recipe. For best results, follow the instructions as written.

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And that’s it for this Cucumber and Mango Salad!

If you make it, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you all are making.

You can also shop this video if you’re looking for the exact pieces I use – I’ve linked everything on my ShopMy! *some links may contain affiliate commissions

And of course, feel free to leave any questions, comments, or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you <3