Go Back

Spiced Mango & Avocado Tartare with Chili-Lime Dressing & Puffed Quinoa

Tropical, tangy, creamy, crunchy — like ceviche meets Thai salad, but fully plant-based and refreshingly bold
Course Starter / Light Meal / Gourmet Vegan Plate
Cuisine Southeast Asian–Modern Fusion
Prep Time 20 minutes
Assembly Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 2

Ingredients

  • Tartare Base:
  • 1 ripe mango diced small (semi-firm Ataulfo or Champagne mango preferred)
  • 1 ripe but firm avocado diced small
  • 1 small shallot finely minced
  • 1 Tbsp fresh mint or Thai basil finely chopped
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Chili-Lime Dressing:
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar or yuzu juice
  • 1 tsp maple syrup or agave
  • 1 Tbsp cold-pressed sesame oil or avocado oil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes or Thai chili finely minced
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Crunchy Topping:
  • 2 Tbsp puffed quinoa puffed rice, or toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 Tbsp crushed roasted peanuts or cashews optional
  • Microgreens or edible flowers for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dressing:
  • Whisk together all ingredients until emulsified. Adjust spice and acidity to your taste.
  • Mix the Tartare:
  • In a bowl, gently combine diced mango, avocado, shallot, herbs, ginger, and lime zest.
  • Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat without mashing the avocado.
  • Plating:
  • Use a ring mold to shape the tartare on a chilled plate for a fine-dining look, or simply spoon into a shallow bowl.
  • Top with puffed quinoa, nuts (if using), and a few microgreens or edible flowers.
  • Drizzle any leftover dressing around the plate for a dramatic finish.

Notes

🌿 Chef’s Notes & Variations
  • Make it ceviche-style: Add diced young coconut meat or tender hearts of palm.
  • Add umami: Sprinkle with a few drops of tamari or coconut aminos.
  • Serve with: Cassava chips, sesame crackers, or chilled cucumber ribbons.
  • For non-vegans: Pair with seared scallops or smoked fish for an elegant surf-and-tropics vibe.
🍸 Pairing Suggestion
Serve with:
  • Sparkling yuzu soda
  • Dry rosé
  • Lemongrass-ginger iced tea