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Mango and Cucumber Chow

This vibrant mango and cucumber chow is a refreshing vegan side dish inspired by the bold, sunny flavours of the Caribbean. By macerating firm mango and crisp cucumber in a zingy dressing of lime juice, garlic and fiery Scotch bonnet chilli, the ingredients soften to create a beautifully balanced sweet and savoury relish. It is an ideal accompaniment for summer barbecues or as a bright contrast to rich, grilled proteins.

Preparing this dish is incredibly simple, making it a reliable addition to your plant-based repertoire. Allowing the flavours to meld at room temperature is the secret to achieving that authentic, juicy consistency. Packed with fresh coriander and plenty of black pepper, it offers a healthy, low-fat burst of tropical flavour that is sure to become a seasonal favourite for outdoor entertaining.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Mango and Cucumber Chow

  • 1 large shallot, thinly sliced into rings

  • 3 garlic cloves, finely grated

  • 1/2–1 Scotch bonnet chilli or habanero chilli, thinly sliced crosswise, seeds removed if less heat is desired

  • 60ml fresh lime juice

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 2 ripe but firm mangoes, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch-thick spears

  • 1 English hothouse cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeds removed, thinly sliced crosswise

  • 1/2 cup chopped coriander

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Toss shallot, garlic, chilli, lime juice, and salt in a medium bowl. Add mangoes and cucumber and toss again. Cover; let sit at room temperature until shallot and cucumber are softened and juicy and flavours come together, 45–60 minutes.

To serve, add coriander to chow and toss well; season generously with pepper.

Chow (without coriander) can be made 3 hours ahead. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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