In 2023, summer was defined by food. Do you remember "tomato girl summer"? Defined by breezy white and red vintage-aesthetic clothes and fancy tomato garden recipes, the tomato girl ruled the season. But in 2024, it just might be a mango girl summer, according to Pinterest's Summer 2024 Trend Report and Google Trends. This totally makes sense as the peelable mango gummies took the internet by storm in early 2024. Now, don't get it twisted. I'm not acting like mangos are a new food, I'm simply elated they're finally getting celebrated by the masses. And if you haven't had a mango lassi from your local Indian restaurant, that is your first order of business for mango girl summer. So, break out your orange and pale yellow threads and get ready to see why mango is the fruit of the summer. 

Here's why mango is the fruit of the summer. 

Mango is truly a versatile tropical fruit. It can be the rockstar of cocktails and smoothies as well as salsas, sorbets, and fruit salads. And people are starting to take notice. According to a Pinterest Summer 2024 Trend Report released on May 22, mango searches have risen exponentially. The data doesn't lie. People are searching for mango float recipes 3,700% more, mango sago 260% more, mango chia seed pudding 210% more, mango jelly 170% more, and mango crepe 180% more.

Now, juft FYI, a "mango float" isn't a mango juice and vanilla ice cream combo — though that would still taste iconic. This search refers to the delectable and simple Filipino dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, whipped cream, and fresh mango slices. Of course, you can head to Pinterest to check out their mango float options. 

Photo by Avinash Kumar on Unsplash

With peelable mango gummies becoming a Google Trends breakout search term in January 2024, it, of course, makes sense that seasonal mango produce is also now of interest. Of note, peak mango season in the United States runs from May to September. The time for mango girl summer is here. 

Check out the full Pinterest Summer 2024 Trend Report here.

Here are a few mango recipes to get you started.

What's a mango girl summer without a few sources of recipe inspo? These mango drinks and snack ideas are just a few of our faves at Spoon University. 

Mango Basil Smoothie

Photo via Carolyn Hsieh

Whether you are looking to spice up your breakfast smoothie routine or are trying to find new ways to use your precious basil plant, this is the refreshing recipe for you. 

Summer Black Bean & Mango Salsa

Photo via Mackenzie Laverick

Summer means patio parties and cookouts galore. Skip turning the oven on and opt for this easy, colorful, and oh-so-flavorful black bean and mango salsa. Don't forget to pair with some fresh tortilla chips.

Mango Punch Cocktail

Photo via Tastemade

If you're hosting a drinking night in with your besties, they will simply adore you for this tropical cocktail with notes of pineapple and mango.