Imagine biting into a vibrant bowl of Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad (Goi Xoai), where the sweet, tangy mango slices dance with the crunch of fresh vegetables. Each bite bursts with flavor, from the fragrant mint to the zesty lime dressing, creating a refreshing harmony that instantly transports you to a lively Vietnamese market.
This salad is not just a delight for your taste buds; it’s a feast for your eyes. The bold colors and appealing textures make it the perfect dish for any gathering, whether you are hosting friends or simply treating yourself to something special.
Picture a sunny afternoon—this salad comes together in a flash, allowing more time to savor every moment. In this article, you will discover how to whip up this delicious dish in no time, along with tips to elevate your vegan cooking game. Get ready to enjoy the tastes of Vietnam right in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad (Goi Xoai)
This vibrant and refreshing salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Here’s why it should be on your table:
- Quick to prepare — Whip up this delicious salad in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
- Budget-friendly — Made with simple, affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Healthy and nutritious — Packed with vitamins from fresh mangoes and crisp vegetables, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Vegan and gluten-free — Suitable for a variety of diets, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it.
- Kid-approved — The sweet and tangy flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Perfect for meal prep — This salad stays fresh for days, making it an excellent choice for weekly meal planning.
- Impressive presentation — Bright colors and vibrant textures make it a standout dish for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups green mango (peeled and julienned)
- 1 cup carrot (peeled and shredded)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely sliced)
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (such as cilantro and mint, chopped)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (crushed)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or agave syrup)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 small red chili (sliced, optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife (for cutting mango and vegetables)
- Cutting board
- Grater or zester (for lime or carrot if desired)
- Salad tongs or serving utensils
- Mandoline slicer (optional but helpful for uniform carrot slices)
- Small bowl (for making the dressing)
How to Make Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad (Goi Xoai)
Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and peel the mango. Use a sharp knife to carefully peel the mango, then slice it thinly into strips, about 1/4-inch wide.
- Chop the vegetables. Thinly slice the red bell pepper, green onion, and cucumber. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
- Julienne the carrots. Use a grater or a mandoline to create thin carrot matchsticks and add them to the bowl with the other vegetables.
- Add fresh herbs. Roughly chop the cilantro and mint, then toss them into the bowl with the vegetables for an aromatic touch.
Make the Dressing
- Combine dressing ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, agave syrup, and chili flakes until well blended.
- Taste and adjust. Try the dressing and add more lime juice or agave if needed for extra zing or sweetness.
Assemble the Salad
- Add the dressing to the salad. Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and herbs in the large bowl.
- Toss gently. Use tongs or a large spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the dressing evenly coats the vegetables.
- Let it marinate. Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to blend the flavors. The salad should feel vibrant and fresh.
Serve the Salad
- Plate the salad. Transfer the salad to individual serving bowls or a large platter for sharing.
- Garnish and enjoy! Top with additional cilantro or crushed peanuts if desired, then enjoy your Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad immediately for the best flavor and crunch.
Tips for the Best Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad (Goi Xoai)
- Choose perfectly ripe mangoes — For the best flavor and sweetness, select mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. Avoid overly ripe or unripe fruit.
- Balance the flavors — Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the acidity and sweetness by adding more lime juice or sweetener as needed to achieve a harmonious flavor profile.
- Customize the crunch — For varied texture, incorporate toasted peanuts or sesame seeds for crunch. You can also add shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Spice it up — If you enjoy heat, consider adding sliced Thai bird chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Make-ahead convenience — Prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Variations to Try
- Herbal twist — Add freshly chopped mint or Thai basil for an aromatic twist that complements the salad beautifully.
- Fruit medley — Mix in other tropical fruits like diced pineapple, papaya, or kiwi for added sweetness and variety.
- Cucumber addition — Add thinly sliced cucumber for an extra refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness of the mango.
How to Store Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad (Goi Xoai)
Room Temperature: For best quality, serve immediately. However, if left at room temperature, consume within 2 hours to ensure freshness and safety.
Refrigerator: Store uneaten salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.
Freezer: This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content in the mango and vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
How to Reheat
Reheating is not recommended for this salad since it is intended to be served cold. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring back the flavors.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep ingredients such as sliced mango, shredded carrots, and herbs in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Mix them together with the dressing just before serving for optimal texture and taste.
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
| Serving Size | 1 cup |
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute ripe mango with another fruit?
Yes, you can use other fruits such as papaya or pineapple for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may vary depending on your choice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any sauces or additional ingredients you use are labeled as gluten-free.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables may become wilted over time.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve more people. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as the flavors may need balancing in a larger quantity.
Why did my salad turn out soggy?
Sogginess can occur if the salad is dressed too early before serving. To prevent this, dress the salad just before serving to maintain crunchy textures.
What can I serve with this salad as a main dish?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled tofu, rice paper rolls, or a side of steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal. Its fresh flavors complement many Asian-inspired dishes.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately, but it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
Your journey into the vibrant flavors of Vegan Vietnamese Mango Salad (Goi Xoai) is sure to delight your taste buds! This refreshing dish, with its delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion — from casual gatherings to a light lunch or dinner.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the explosion of flavors for yourself! After whipping it up, feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts or rating. And don’t forget to share this recipe with friends or on social media; it’s a dish worth spreading the joy over. Happy cooking!