On a sunny afternoon, with the warmth of the season wrapping around me, I had a craving for something vibrant and refreshing. That’s when I decided to whip up this Quick And Easy Mango Slaw. The sweet aroma of ripe mango mingling with the crunch of fresh cabbage instantly made my kitchen feel like a tropical paradise.
What I love about this slaw is that it brilliantly balances flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or just looking for a light and zesty addition to your weeknight dinners, this dish checks all the boxes. Packed with colorful veggies and drizzled in a tangy dressing, it’s versatile enough to complement anything from grilled chicken to tacos.
Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary side dish!
Why is Quick And Easy Mango Slaw a Must-Try?
Simplicity in preparation means you can whip this slaw up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Vibrant flavors from mango and lime create a refreshing taste that brightens any meal. Healthy crunch comes from fresh veggies, making this slaw a guilt-free choice for health-conscious eaters. Versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or serve as a stand-alone dish, it’s an all-star at any gathering. Want to elevate your side dish game? Try this delightful mango slaw!
Quick And Easy Mango Slaw Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to bring this refreshing slaw to life!
For the Slaw
• Ripe mangoes – these add a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the crunch of the veggies.
• Green cabbage – provides a satisfying crunch and a lovely base for the slaw.
• Carrot – grated for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Red bell pepper – thinly sliced to add a sweet, slightly tangy flavor.
• Red onion – brings a hint of sharpness that enhances the overall taste.
• Fresh cilantro – adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the mango beautifully.
For the Dressing
• Lime juice – adds a zesty brightness that invigorates the slaw.
• Honey or maple syrup – choose either for a touch of sweetness; maple syrup can be a great vegan alternative.
• Sesame oil – delivers a nutty richness that enhances the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper – adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning balance.
This Quick And Easy Mango Slaw is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
How to Make Quick And Easy Mango Slaw
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Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced mangoes, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, sliced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss well to mix all the vegetables and fruit evenly together.
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Whisk dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth. This dressing will bring all the flavors to life!
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Dress the slaw: Pour the dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is beautifully coated in the dressing.
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Let it sit: Allow the slaw to sit for about 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and creating a harmonious taste experience before serving.
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Serve: Enjoy your slaw chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish that will brighten up any meal!
Optional: Garnish with additional cilantro for an extra burst of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Quick And Easy Mango Slaw
- Choose ripe mangoes: Picking ripe mangoes will ensure maximum sweetness. Look for fruit that yields slightly to pressure and has a fruity aroma.
- Evenly chopped veggies: For the best texture, shred the cabbage and other vegetables as evenly as possible. This keeps every bite balanced in flavor and crunch.
- Let it rest: Allowing the slaw to sit for 5-10 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully. Avoid serving immediately, as it may taste bland without this step.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the dressing before pouring it over the slaw. Depending on the sweetness of your mangoes, you may want to add more honey or maple syrup for that perfect balance.
- Storage tip: If not serving immediately, store the slaw in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to two days, but be mindful of the dressing; adding it just before serving is best.
This Quick And Easy Mango Slaw is a delightful addition to any meal!
What to Serve with Quick And Easy Mango Slaw?
Looking to create a delightful meal that dances on your taste buds? Pair this refreshing slaw with these incredible options!
- Grilled Chicken: The charred flavors of grilled chicken complement the sweet and tangy notes of the slaw perfectly, adding warmth to your plate.
- Fish Tacos: The bright and zesty mango slaw is a fantastic topping for fish tacos, enhancing them with fresh flavors and crunch.
- Pork Tenderloin: Roast or grilled pork brings a savory richness that balances the lively sweetness of the mango, making them a match made in heaven.
- Quinoa Salad: For a wholesome vegetarian option, a mixed quinoa salad adds a nutty flavor and a hearty texture that works beautifully with the slaw.
- Chili Lime Corn on the Cob: This fun side brings a burst of flavor that pairs harmoniously with the sweet mango, creating a delightful summer vibe.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refresh yourself with a bubbly drink that echoes the zesty lime notes from the slaw, enhancing your meal experience.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, this creamy and subtly sweet dish will provide a lovely contrast to the bright and fresh mango flavors.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: The succulent shrimp adds a touch of sophistication while the flavors meld beautifully with the mango slaw’s vibrant profile.
How to Store and Freeze Quick And Easy Mango Slaw
- Fridge: Keep the slaw in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If dressed, consume within 24 hours for best freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place the vegetable mixture (without dressing) in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months, but the texture may change upon thawing.
- Reheating: Quick And Easy Mango Slaw is best served fresh. If refrigerated, enjoy it cold or at room temperature rather than reheated, as it’s a refreshing side dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick And Easy Mango Slaw preparations are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can chop and prepare all the vegetables (mangoes, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For the dressing, whisk together the lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, salt, and pepper, and keep it separate in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, add the dressing, toss, and let it sit for an additional 5-10 minutes for maximum flavor! This prep method ensures your slaw remains just as delicious, full of vibrant flavors and crunchy textures!
Quick And Easy Mango Slaw Variations
Feel free to personalize your slaw experience with these delicious twists and modifications!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat. This will elevate the slaw and wake up your taste buds!
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan mayo for a creamy texture. This version offers a unique richness that’s perfect for dipping.
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Nutty Delight: Toss in a handful of toasted peanuts or cashews for a satisfying crunch. The added nuts not only enhance texture but also boost flavor!
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Fruity Fusion: Swap out mango for pineapple or papaya for a tropical twist. Each fruit brings its own sweetness, providing a delightful variety.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil instead of cilantro. These herbs will give your slaw a fresh personality that’s vibrant and refreshing.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or grapefruit juice into the dressing for a zesty boom of flavor. The citrus will brighten every bite and add a lovely tang.
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Cabbage Alternatives: Use purple cabbage or kale instead of green cabbage for a colorful change. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also come packed with nutrients!
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Additions Galore: Consider mixing in chopped apples or crunchy radishes for a sweet and crunchy surprise. These extra ingredients make the slaw even more interesting and delightful!
No matter how you decide to customize, each version of this Quick And Easy Mango Slaw will hit just the right notes!
Quick And Easy Mango Slaw Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe mangoes?
Absolutely! When selecting ripe mangoes, look for fruit that yields slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma. The skin may have some wrinkles, and color can vary depending on the variety. A perfectly ripe mango will be fragrant, with no dark spots all over the surface.
What is the best way to store leftover mango slaw?
For the best freshness, keep your Quick And Easy Mango Slaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve dressed it, try to consume it within 24 hours for optimal flavor. The crunchiness of the veggies will start to fade past that point!
Can I freeze mango slaw?
Sure! To freeze, I recommend mixing the diced mangoes, cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro together without the dressing. Place the vegetable mixture in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and mix with freshly prepared dressing.
What should I do if my slaw is too sweet?
If your slaw turns out too sweet, here’s what you can do: Add a squeeze more lime juice to balance the sweetness, or toss in some finely chopped green onions to bring a savory note. Tasting as you go is the key!
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
Yes! However, be cautious about personal allergies to specific ingredients. The slaw contains mangoes, which can cause reactions in some individuals. Always check for allergens like honey or maple syrup if you’re serving it to guests.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this slaw?
Very! You can easily substitute the honey with agave nectar for a vegan option. If you’re not fond of cilantro, try parsley or omit it entirely. The more the merrier when it comes to mixing and matching vegetables; incorporate sliced radishes or jicama for extra crunch!
This Quick And Easy Mango Slaw Recipe FAQs section should answer any lingering questions you might have. Enjoy creating this refreshing summer side!
Quick And Easy Mango Slaw for a Refreshing Summer Side
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, add the diced mangoes, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, sliced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss well to mix all the vegetables and fruit evenly together.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is beautifully coated.
- Allow the slaw to sit for about 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Enjoy your slaw chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish!