This vibrant mango slaw stands out as a refreshing and colorful dish that perfectly balances sweetness, crunch, and zest.
Featuring nutrient-dense ingredients like purple cabbage and fresh mango, it’s packed with dietary fiber that supports digestion and promotes fullness.
The mango adds natural sweetness and vitamin C, while cilantro and jalapeño bring a burst of flavor and antioxidants.
With minimal added fat and sodium, this recipe is naturally low in saturated fat and carbs, making it a wholesome, plant-based side or topping.
Its quick prep and no-cook nature make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or easy meal prep.
Whether paired with grilled proteins or tossed into tacos, this slaw elevates everyday meals with its bright taste and nutritional punch.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Vegetable Peeler
Essential for effortlessly peeling firm mangos, this tool ensures you remove skin cleanly without wasting fruit. Its versatility makes it perfect for peeling carrots, cucumbers, and more in any kitchen.
Box Grater
Ideal for shredding mango and cabbage into uniform, thin strips, the box grater speeds up prep and creates the perfect texture for slaw. Beyond this recipe, it’s a kitchen staple for cheese, vegetables, and zesting citrus.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
A reliable, sharp knife allows precise slicing of onions and chopping of herbs, ensuring even cuts and preventing bruising. A good chef’s knife is indispensable for nearly all cooking tasks.
Mixing Bowl
A large, sturdy mixing bowl provides ample space to combine all ingredients and toss the slaw thoroughly. High-quality bowls are versatile for marinating, mixing dough, or serving salads.
Citrus Zester or Microplane
This tool extracts fine zest from lime and orange, imparting bright citrus oils that boost flavor without adding juice or bitterness. It’s perfect for any recipe needing delicate zest or finely grated spices.
30 Minutes Mango, Cabbage, and Cilantro Slaw
Equipment
- 1 Vegetable Peeler
- 1 Box grater
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl (at least 4-quart)
- 1 Citrus Zester or Microplane
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango : Start by peeling the mango using a vegetable peeler to remove the skin cleanly without wasting any flesh. Then, using a box grater or a sharp knife, shred or julienne the mango into thin, delicate strips. Place the shredded mango into a large mixing bowl to hold the other ingredients later.
- Shred the Cabbage and Slice the Onion: Finely shred the purple cabbage or use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix if preferred. Thinly slice the red onion or green onions, depending on your choice. Add both the cabbage and onions into the bowl with the mango.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Spice: Roughly chop the cilantro and finely mince the jalapeño pepper if using. Add these to the bowl to bring freshness and a hint of heat to the slaw.
- Incorporate Citrus Zests: Using a microplane or fine grater, zest the orange and lime directly into the bowl. These fragrant citrus oils will enhance the flavor without making the salad watery. At this stage, you can cover and refrigerate the mixture if you’re preparing ahead of time.
- Dress the Slaw: Right before serving, pour in the fresh orange juice and lime juice, and sprinkle the salt over the mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Final Adjustments and Serve: Taste the slaw and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño to suit your preference. Serve immediately as a refreshing side, taco topping, or alongside grilled dishes.
Notes
- For best texture and flavor, use firm, chilled mangos to make shredding easier and maintain the crispness of the slaw.
- This slaw is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cabbage may soften slightly over time but will still taste delicious.
- Feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño or omitting it altogether for a milder version.
- To add extra crunch, consider tossing in a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts just before serving.
- This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with fiber and vitamin C, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Chef’s Secrets for Bright Flavor
To achieve the perfect balance of freshness and texture, always use firm mangos that are slightly underripe rather than overly soft.
This ensures the mango holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when shredded.
Adding the citrus zest before refrigeration helps infuse the salad with aromatic oils, while the acidic juices are best added right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Mince the jalapeño finely and start with less to control the heat, as the flavor intensifies over time.
Using fresh herbs like cilantro with tender stems adds more depth and a burst of green freshness.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
This mango slaw makes an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp, adding a vibrant contrast with its citrusy crunch.
It’s equally delicious as a topping for tacos, burrito bowls, or even as a fresh salad with avocado slices and toasted nuts for added richness.
For a light lunch, try it tossed with quinoa or chickpeas for a protein-packed meal.
The bright flavors also pair wonderfully with spicy dishes, helping to cool the palate.
Storage Tips to Maintain Freshness
Store mango slaw in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Keep the citrus juice separate if possible, adding it just before serving to maintain the cabbage’s crispness.
If the slaw softens, drain any excess liquid before tossing again. For meal prep, prepare the shredded mango, cabbage, and herbs in advance, then combine and dress the salad fresh each day.
Avoid freezing this slaw as the texture and flavor degrade significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mango Slaw
1. Can I substitute green cabbage instead of purple?
Yes, green cabbage works perfectly and offers a milder flavor. Purple cabbage adds vibrant color but swapping won’t affect taste or texture significantly.
2. How do I know when a mango is firm enough?
Choose mangos that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t soft or mushy. Firm mangos shred better and keep the slaw crisp.
3. Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
You can prep most ingredients in advance but add citrus juice and salt just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
Absolutely! It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and free from common allergens, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
5. What if I don’t like spicy food—can I omit jalapeño?
Definitely. The jalapeño is optional. Omitting it won’t impact the overall flavor and keeps the slaw mild and refreshing.
This recipe is inspired by feastingathome
