Lemon, Ginger, and Coconut Gremolata Over Mango Salad: A Vibrant, Fresh Recipe
A refreshing mango salad brought to life with lemon, ginger, and coconut gremolata, combining bright flavors, health benefits, and culinary creativity.
Lemon, Ginger, and Coconut Gremolata Over Mango Salad
If you’re seeking a salad that delivers a burst of freshness, vibrant color, and bold flavor, look no further than this lemon, ginger, and coconut gremolata over mango salad. This dish highlights how the right blend of citrus, warming spices, crunchy coconut, and sweet ripe fruit creates a simple yet impressive side or light meal. Not only is it visually stunning on the table, but it is packed with nutrients that offer benefits beyond great taste.
Why This Salad Stands Out
- Flavorful Balance: The combination of ripe mango, crisp Persian cucumber, and peppery daikon roots creates layers of sweetness, crunch, and spice.
- Gremolata Reinvented: Traditionally an Italian garnish of herbs, garlic, and lemon, this version incorporates coconut, mint, ginger, and spices for tropical flair.
- Health-Enriching Ingredients: Each component brings unique health-supportive properties, from vitamin C-rich lemons to anti-inflammatory ginger and fiber-packed daikon.
Perfect for a light lunch, as a side at your next gathering, or whenever you need to brighten up your plate, this recipe is a celebration of wholesome, seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below is a list of the ingredients required for the salad and the gremolata topping. Quality and freshness are key to highlighting each ingredient’s flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons safflower oil
- 2 teaspoons honey
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 3 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces daikon, peeled and sliced into half-moons
- 2 champagne mangoes, peeled, pitted, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup toasted, shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 serrano chile, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped, peeled fresh ginger
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
Step-by-Step Directions
- Make the Base Salad
In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, safflower oil, honey, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the sliced cucumbers, daikon, and mangoes. Toss gently to coat, being careful not to mash the delicate mango slices.
- Prepare the Coconut Gremolata
In a medium bowl, combine the toasted coconut, chopped mint, serrano chile, ginger, lemon zest, chives, mustard seeds, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss until well mixed, ensuring the aromatic oils from the herbs and citrus are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Salad
Arrange the tossed salad on a serving platter or in individual bowls. Top generously with the coconut gremolata. For extra freshness, sprinkle with additional mint leaves just before serving.
The Nutritional Advantages
This salad is more than a medley of fresh produce—it’s designed for taste and well-being. Here’s a look at the nutrition per serving:
| Calories | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Cholesterol (mg) | Sodium (mg) | Carbohydrate (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugar (g) | Added Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~175 | 9 | 5.5 | 0 | 254 | 24 | 5 | 18 | 3 | 2 |
Note: These values are approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredients and portions used.
Ingredient Spotlights: Benefits & Culinary Notes
- Mango: Rich in vitamin C and A, mangoes are hydrating, promote healthy skin, and lend a juicy sweetness to salads.
- Lemon: Besides flavor, lemons supply antioxidants like vitamin C that help reduce bacteria and support immunity.
- Ginger: Traditionally prized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger brings warmth and depth.
- Toasted Coconut: Adds toasty flavor, healthy fats, and a chewy crunch without added sugars.
- Daikon: Mild yet peppery, daikon adds crunch, fiber, and aids digestion.
- Serrano Chile: Offers a gentle heat and compounds that may boost metabolism.
- Mustard Seeds: Tiny, peppery seeds that add both flavor complexity and a small antioxidant boost.
- Mint & Chives: Fresh, aromatic herbs that brighten the entire dish and aid digestion.
What others are reading
Creative Twists & Serving Suggestions
- Versatile Base: Serve the salad as a starter, side dish, or top with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken for a complete meal.
- Swap the Greens: Add greens like baby spinach or arugula as a base for extra color and nutrients.
- Fruit Variations: Substitute or supplement mango with ripe peaches, papaya, or pineapple during different seasons.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with roasted cashews or slivered almonds for added texture and protein.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the gremolata a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld; add to the salad just before serving to keep textures crisp.
Troubleshooting & Tips for Best Results
- Toast your coconut properly: Shredded unsweetened coconut is best toasted gently until golden for richer flavor and crunch.
- Slicing matters: Cutting mango and daikon into even pieces ensures each bite is balanced and beautiful.
- Chopping herbs: Chop fresh herbs just before serving to maximize their aroma and color.
- Adjust heat: Control spiciness by using less or more serrano chile, or omitting for sensitive palates.
- Season to taste: Taste as you go and tweak the seasoning; the natural sweetness and tartness of the fruit can vary batch to batch.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Main Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lemon | High in vitamin C, supports immunity, helps inhibit bacterial growth |
| Ginger | Traditionally recognized for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects |
| Mango | Rich in antioxidants, boosts hydration, supports skin health |
| Mint | Promotes digestion, refreshes palate |
| Toasted Coconut | Provides (healthy) fats, natural sweetness, dietary fiber |
What Is Gremolata? A Modern Take
Originally from Italian cuisine, gremolata is a condiment or garnish made with chopped parsley, lemon zest, and garlic. Its purpose is to add a burst of freshness to rich dishes. Here, the concept is expanded—mint, ginger, coconut, and mustard seeds create a gremolata that feels both familiar and new. The additional flavors make this topping a standout for salads, veggies, and even grilled proteins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the freshest texture, keep the salad base and gremolata separate until just before serving. Prepare the vegetables and greens, toast the coconut, and chop herbs in advance, but combine only at the last minute for best results.
Q: What can I use if I can’t find Persian cucumbers or daikon?
English cucumbers or small garden cucumbers work well as substitutes. For daikon, try jicama, watermelon radish, or even thinly sliced regular radishes for a slightly spicier bite.
Q: How spicy is this recipe?
The serrano chile contributes a gentle but noticeable heat. Adjust by adding less, omitting seeds, or leaving out entirely if preferred. For an extra kick, add more or use a hotter chile variety.
Q: Should I use sweetened or unsweetened coconut?
Always use unsweetened shredded coconut for this recipe. Sweetened coconut will overpower the fresh, bright flavors and add unnecessary sugar.
Q: What oil can replace safflower oil?
Any neutral-tasting oil, such as grapeseed or avocado oil, can be used instead. Olive oil offers a fruitier note but may slightly change the character of the vinaigrette.
Cooking Tips From the Test Kitchen
- Use ripe but firm mangoes: Overripe mangoes will become mushy; underripe will lack sweetness. Champagne mangoes offer superior flavor and texture for this salad.
- Don’t skip the salt: Proper seasoning is the difference between a bland and a vibrant salad. Salt enhances every component, especially fruits and herbs.
- Toss gently: Mango and daikon can bruise; handle with care to preserve the salad’s structure and bite.
More Ways to Enjoy Lemon, Ginger, and Coconut Gremolata
This gremolata recipe isn’t just for mango salad:
- Sprinkle over roasted vegetables for extra brightness and crunch.
- Use as a topping for grilled fish or shrimp for a tropical citrus-herb finish.
- Mix into grain bowls or spoon on top of soups for an aromatic garnish.
Conclusion: Celebrate Freshness Every Season
Combining seasonal produce, bright citrus, and warm spices, this salad is a testament to how thoughtful ingredient pairings can elevate healthful eating to crave-worthy status. Let this lemon, ginger, and coconut gremolata over mango salad inspire your next gathering or personal meal—after all, food that looks this vibrant is always an invitation to enjoy every bite.
References
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/a60117012/lemon-ginger-and-coconut-gremolata-over-mango-salad-recipe/
- https://www.foodandluv.com/dinner/carmelized-winter-squash-with-toasted-coconut-gremolata
- https://kitchenfeasts.com/2021/06/26/mixed-herb-and-zesty-lemon-gremolata/
- https://food52.com/recipes/75805-roasted-carrots-toasted-coconut-gremolata
- https://www.walderwellness.com/lemon-ginger-coconut-granola/
- https://www.annievarberg.com/annie-and-alison-food-blog/caramelized-winter-squash
- https://thekitchenprepblog.com/citrusy-supper/
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