Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad

Name: Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Inspiration

I absolutely love the combination of flavors in this Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad! The sweet, juicy mango pairs perfectly with the hearty chickpeas, creating a vibrant dish that's both nutritious and delicious. I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with tropical ingredients and quickly became hooked. The fresh lime juice adds a zesty brightness that really elevates the flavors. Whether as a refreshing side or a light main, this salad is perfect for warm days or anytime I need a burst of sunshine on my plate.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:49:35.327Z

This Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad was inspired by my travels to the Caribbean, where I fell in love with the vibrant flavors of fresh produce. I decided to recreate that experience at home, using ingredients that are just as colorful and packed with nutrients. The combination of chickpeas provides a great source of protein, while the mango adds a delightful sweetness.

During my recipe testing, I found that letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I always recommend garnishing with fresh cilantro to enhance that tropical vibe. Trust me, this dish is a real crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Refreshing and light, perfect for any season
Rich in protein and fiber, making it filling
Bright colors and flavors make it a beautiful dish for gatherings

      

Texture and Flavor Harmony

The texture of this Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad is one of its most appealing aspects. The creaminess of the ripe mango contrasts delightfully with the firm chickpeas, creating a satisfying mouthfeel. As you bite into the salad, the crunch from the diced red bell pepper and corn adds a refreshing crispness that enhances each forkful. Aim to use perfectly ripe mangoes; they should yield slightly under gentle pressure to ensure the best texture and flavor balance.

In terms of flavor, this salad is a symphony of sweet, savory, and zesty notes. The sweetness of the mango naturally complements the earthiness of chickpeas, while the lime juice injects a bright acidity that livens up all the ingredients. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño to elevate the heat level. This combination makes each bite a delightful exploration of tastes.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this salad plays a critical role in achieving the dish's overall profile. Chickpeas provide not only a hearty base but also a good source of protein and fiber, promoting satiety. Fresh mango is key for sweetness, so choose one that's vibrant and fragrant; a smaller, slightly under-ripe mango can work in a pinch, although it may lack some sweetness. If you’re vegan, the olive oil serves to coat the salad while offering healthy fats, which can be replaced with avocado oil if desired.

For those looking to customize the flavors, there are numerous substitutions you can make. Swap out cilantro for parsley if you're not a fan of cilantro’s unique flavor. You can also replace the corn with diced cucumber for a lighter, crunchier texture or include black beans instead of chickpeas for a different bean flavor. Don't hesitate to get creative based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 ripe mango, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will come together to create a gorgeous dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the salad:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, corn, and cilantro.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the lime juice and olive oil over the salad. Season with salt and pepper, and gently toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Now enjoy your vibrant and tasty salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This salad also pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is great for meal prep, as the ingredients meld beautifully if prepared in advance. You can make this salad up to a day ahead of time; just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The lime juice helps to preserve the freshness of the ingredients, but I recommend holding back on adding the olive oil until just before serving to maintain that enticing texture.

If you plan to enjoy the salad over several days, consider portioning it out into individual containers. This will make grabbing a quick, nutritious snack or lunch much easier. Just bear in mind that the salad can get soggy over time, so try to consume it within three days for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad can shine in a variety of serving contexts. It works beautifully as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks, where its vibrant colors can brighten up any spread. Pair it with grilled shrimp or chicken for a delightful light main course that's both filling and nutritious. For a vegetarian twist, serve it with roasted vegetables on quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome bowl meal.

For a more casual approach, use it as a topping for tacos or burritos, adding a punch of flavor and freshness. The delightful sweetness and zestiness of the salad balance perfectly with rich or spicy dishes. I often enjoy it on its own, making it a perfect option for those warm, sunny days when you crave something light yet satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together.

→ What can I substitute for mango?

You can use pineapple or peaches if mango is not available; just choose a fruit that is ripe and sweet.

→ How long will leftovers last?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan and gluten-free!