Mangos: The Holiday Superfood You Never Knew You Needed

Whether you’re in charge of drinks, sides, or dessert this holiday season, mango’s sumptuous tropical flavor makes it the perfect antidote to heavier dishes. They’re always in season and full of health-promoting nutrients—they’re a holiday superfood!

Mango is succulent and aromatic, and can teeter between sweet, creamy and spicy depending on the mango varietal. When choosing yours, don’t focus on color. Instead, give it a soft squeeze; a ripe mango will give slightly. If you've got a mango on your hands that isn't as ripe as you'd like it, keep it at room temperature for a day or two, or place it in a paper bag. For easy cutting, slice it lengthwise around the seed (sort of like halving an avocado). Use a paring knife to cut the flesh in a grid-like pattern, then scoop it out.

You could eat it straight with a squeeze of lime, or peruse the holiday-ready recipes below. Fun fact that we learned from the Mango Board: A basket of mangos is considered a gesture of friendship in India—which surely applies to mango-laden dishes, too. Think of it as a bright, new way to bring the holiday spirit to your next gathering.

Want to learn more about this versatile fruit? Head on over to the Mango Board's website right here.

Fruity Black Rice Salad With Cilantro, Avocado, and Pepitas in Chili-Orange Vinaigrette

Black rice isn’t the most popular grain on the shelf, but it deliciously takes center stage in this refreshing salad. Mangos add delicious texture and brightness of flavor, while finely chopped onion adds some sweet flavor, and earthy pepitas offer a light bit of crunch. The quick chili- and cumin-spiked vinaigrette can be made an hour in advance.

Get the recipe for Fruity Black Rice Salad With Cilantro, Avocado, and Pepitas in Chili-Orange Vinaigrette here

Avocado Toast With Mango, Chili Powder, and Mint Recipe

A few delicious ingredients can really up your avocado toast game. Plus, it’s quick and easy fuel for a day of holiday errands. Fresh, ripe mangos play particularly nicely with rich, creamy avocado, and a shake of chili powder brings the heat. Chopped mint (or basil!) ties everything together with an aromatic flourish.

Get the recipe for Avocado Toast With Mango, Chili Powder, and Mint here

Jewel of Oaxaca Recipe

If the relatives don’t do it, this sweet-and-smoky mezcal and mango libation might be your excuse to start cocktail hour early. A grill or a grill pan caramelizes the mango and boosts its natural sweetness, complementing the smokiness of ancho chili peppers (called poblanos when fresh), which add more flavor than heat. Fresh lime is the finishing touch.

Get the recipe for the Jewel of Oaxaca here

Ceviche de Mango

The next time you make ceviche for a crowd, don't let fish have all the fun. This bright dish puts delicious mangos front and center with wispy slices of red onion and lots of lime. Feel free to serve it in a big bowl or in individual servings for an elegant little starter.

Get the recipe for Mango Ceviche here

Lemon & Vanilla Crème Brûlée with Fresh Mango Topping

If you love treating your guests to crème brûlée, try this new and refreshing spin with a bit of lemon in the filling and mango on top. The lemon's brightness pairs extra well with delicate chunks of fresh mango sprinkled over the final product. Sweet and vibrant, this dessert will be a bite of sunshine during the coldest winter evenings.

Get the recipe for Lemon & Vanilla Crème Brûlée with Fresh Mango Topping