Make Room for Fresh Mangoes on Your Plate

If you’re thinking about the tropics, look no further than your grocer’s produce section.  That’s right–fresh mangoes are in season right now and few fruits conjure up the feeling of sitting on an island beach quite like the flavor of a juicy mango.

It might surprise you to learn that mangoes are the most consumed fruit in the world and no wonder–they are incredibly sweet and juicy, not to mention their health benefits.  Mangoes are low fat, cholesterol free, sodium free, high in Vitamin A and a good source of Vitamin C.  Because of their natural sweetness, they are excellent to enjoy alone as a healthy snack.  If you’re new to using or serving fresh mango, don’t let that deter you.  Michael Marks, Your Produce Man, has some simple tips on how to slice and serve a fresh mango so you don’t waste any of the flavorful fruit.  You can always serve freshly sliced mango on top of your favorite low-fat frozen yogurt, sorbet or ice cream, but don’t stop there!  Mangoes can be used in some other interesting ways.

Much in the same way pineapple is used, mangoes make a great salsa.  Now that we’re into grilling season, a sweet/savory mango salsa is the perfect topping for grilled chicken or fish.  This version of Fresh Mango Salsa uses bell peppers, jalapeno pepper, onion and cilantro in the recipe to offset the mango’s sweetness.  Use it as a meat topping or as an appetizer with tortilla chips.



Another popular way to use fresh mangoes is in a smoothie.  This simple recipe for Creamy Mango Smoothies only has a few ingredients and is really simple to make.



Visit your supermarket and look for in-season mangoes now through May while they are at their most flavorful.  You’ll feel like you’ve taken a trip to paradise!

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