Recipes to Bring to MangoMania
The fresh, sweet flavor of mango is the star of the show at MangoMania 2026 — Pine Island’s Tropical Fruit Fair on July 11, 2026. Whether you’re entering the Best of Mango Food Contest or just showing up hungry, these mango-inspired recipes will help you celebrate in style at the Winn Dixie Plaza in St. James City.
From smoky barbecue favorites to refreshing drinks and crowd-pleasing desserts, these recipes add color, flavor, and tropical flair to the table — ideal for a day spent among local growers, live music, and fellow mango lovers.
Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs With Ginger-Mango Barbecue Sauce
Slow-cooked until perfectly tender, these beef short ribs are coated in a rich ginger-mango barbecue sauce that delivers the ideal balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. They’re an effortless main course sure to impress your guests.
Chicken Wings With Mango Chile Sauce
Tangy mango chili sauce adds a layer of warmth and depth to these chicken wings, which will please most everyone. Whether you’re making them on the grill or in a grill pan, these wings come together quickly. You may find that you’ll need to double the recipe, as these go quickly.
Give the classic cowboy caviar a tropical twist by adding juicy cubes of fresh mango. The sweetness balances the jalapeño kick, creating a colorful appetizer perfect for serving with tortilla chips. It’s a fresh, flavorful dip that’s guaranteed to be one of the first dishes to disappear at the party.
Tropical Mango Strawberry Shortcake
Put a refreshing spin on a beloved summer dessert by pairing sweet strawberries with ripe mango. Top each serving with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for an easy dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious.
Cool off with this delightful mango citrus fruit punch. Bright citrus flavors blend with sweet mango to create a family-friendly beverage perfect for a hot summer day. Serve it over plenty of ice and garnish with slices of fresh fruit for a lively presentation.
Make It With Mango
Whether you’re firing up the grill, setting out appetizers, or looking for a refreshing drink or a cooling dessert, mango brings a bright tropical flair that fits right in at MangoMania. Try one or all of these recipes — and if you’re feeling bold, enter one in the Best of Mango Food Contest!
New to cooking with mango? Here’s everything you need to get started!
How to Pick a Mango
Choosing a ripe mango is easy once you know the signs. Look for fruit that gives slightly when gently squeezed and has a sweet fragrance near the stem — both indicate it’s ready to eat.
Once ripe, mangos are easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. Dice, slice, or cut them into cheeks to add to salads, smoothies, salsas, desserts, or savory dishes. Save this quick guide for easy reference.
With their vibrant color, juicy texture, and naturally sweet flavor, mangos add a fresh tropical touch to just about any dish. Watch the tutorial video here.
How to Cut a Mango
Because a mango has a large, flat pit in the center, you’ll need to slice around it rather than through it. Stand the mango upright and cut down each side of the pit to remove the two cheeks. Score the flesh in a grid pattern without piercing the skin, then invert each cheek and slice off the cubes.
Don’t overlook the fruit around the pit. Peel the skin, trim the remaining flesh, and use every last bite. Watch how to cut a mango here.
