A juicy, colorful, no-fuss fruit salad that’s bursting with tropical flavor
There’s something about mango and papaya together that just feels like a sunset dream or beach vacation in a bowl. This Caribbean Inspired Papaya and Mango Salad is sweet, citrusy, a little herbaceous, and beautifully simple. It’s one of those side dishes that brightens up any plate—grilled mains, plant-based BBQs, or even just a big fork and your favorite sun-soaked corner of the backyard.
With fresh lime, a touch of red onion, and crisp bell pepper, this salad isn’t just fruit—it’s flavor-forward and satisfying. Whether you’re prepping it for a summer cookout, a Sunday reset lunch, or your weekly meal prep lineup, this one’s guaranteed to feel like a little getaway.
Caribbean Inspired Papaya & Mango Salad
Equipment
- Knife and cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or spoon (for dressing)
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 ripe mango peeled and diced
- 1 cup ripe papaya peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 small red bell pepper finely diced
- 1/4 small red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped for both cilantro AND mint
- 1 –2 tablespoons fresh lime juice to taste
- 1 tablespoon orange juice optional, for added sweetness
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
- Pinch of chili flakes or 1/4 tsp finely diced Scotch bonnet pepper optional for heat
Instructions
- Dice the mango, papaya, and bell pepper. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the cilantro and mint.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the mango, papaya, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl or directly in the salad bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice (if using), olive oil, sea salt, and chili flakes or Scotch bonnet (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss to combine until everything is lightly coated.
- Taste and adjust lime juice or salt as needed. Let it chill in the fridge for 10 minutes for maximum flavor meld, or serve immediately.
Video
@herbyeater If there is one thing I love about summer, it’s a picnic. And to celebrate international picnic day this week, I’m showcasing a few al fresco, outdoorsy, picnic friendly recipes that are sure to delight. A perfect beginning, this Caribbean-inspired Papaya & Mango Salad looks gorgeous and brings a seasonal freshness that only comes this time of year. I am team tropical fruit all the way, so I made extra to enjoy as a sweet snack at home after. 🥰 #papayasalad #tropicalfruits #herbyeats #alfrescodining #picnicinthepark Now my question to you is: Do you say “Care-Ah-Bee-An“ or “Kuh-Rib-Be-An”? 🤪🏝️
♬ This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole