Mango slaw is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brightens up any meal. With its colorful blend of shredded vegetables and juicy mango, it strikes a perfect balance between crunchy and sweet. This slaw isn’t just visually appealing; it’s a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings, barbecues, and even as a light side for everyday dinners. Plus, making it is a fantastic way to add a tropical twist to your table.
Mango Slaw
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant mango slaw that combines sweet mango with crunchy vegetables for a perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, mango, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, tossing everything together until fully coated.
- Let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Notes
Try adding sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the best things about mango slaw is its versatility. Whether you serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even as a topping for sandwiches, it elevates flavors and adds a burst of color to your plate. The combination of sweet mango, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing brings a delightful contrast that everyone will enjoy.
“I made this slaw for a backyard barbecue, and it was gone within minutes! The mango adds such a nice sweetness.”
Beyond its taste, this slaw is also incredibly nutritious, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals. The crunch from the veggies paired with the soft sweetness of the mango provides a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist.
How it comes together
Mango slaw comes together in just a few straightforward steps. It begins with prepping your vegetables and mango, followed by mixing your dressing ingredients. Once everything is combined, a quick toss brings the vibrant flavors together. The colors and aromas will have you eager to dig in!
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 0 min | Total Time: 15 min
What you’ll need
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
You can easily swap the mango for another fruit, such as pineapple or papaya, if you prefer something different. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, mango, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, tossing everything together until fully coated.
- Let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This mango slaw shines when paired with grilled meats or seafood. It’s perfect as a side dish for a summer barbecue or as a topping for tacos and sandwiches. You might consider serving it alongside grilled shrimp or chicken for a beautiful contrast of flavors. For a light lunch, it also works well tucked into a wrap with some protein for extra heartiness.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers, store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal freshness. The texture may soften over time, so it’s a good idea to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, you maintain that wonderful crunch.
Helpful cooking tips
When choosing a mango, look for one that gives slightly when pressed, indicating ripeness. If your mango is too firm, you can leave it at room temperature for a day or two to ripen. For a more intense flavor, try adding a touch of chili powder to the dressing for some heat, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with your mango slaw. You could add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or throw in some chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. If you want a creamier slaw, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayo to the dressing. You could also try swapping the honey for a different sweetener, like maple syrup, for a unique twist.
FAQ
Can I make this slaw in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the vegetables and make the dressing ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the texture of the slaw.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing on the side if possible to preserve the crunchiness.
What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute mango with fruits like pineapple, papaya, or even apple for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness of the dressing if needed to complement the new fruit!