Jamaican Mango Slaw

Name: Jamaican Mango Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 carrot, grated; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Inspired Favorites

I absolutely love this Jamaican Mango Slaw! Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors always brighten up my meals. The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet mango, and zesty lime creates a refreshing side dish that complements any occasion. I enjoy serving it at barbecues or family gatherings, where it always gets rave reviews. The best part is how easy it is to prepare; in just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious and nutritious slaw ready that everyone will love!

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:29:34.461Z

When I first tried Jamaican Mango Slaw, I knew immediately that I had stumbled upon a gem. The crunch from the cabbage paired with the soft, juicy mango creates a delightful contrast. I often experiment with varying the ingredients based on what's available, but the key is guaranteeing freshness in every bite. Recently, I added a hint of jalapeño, which provided a lovely kick!

One specific tip I've discovered is to let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so every forkful is bursting with that signature Caribbean taste. Using a ripe mango is crucial—nothing beats a perfectly sweet and fragrant mango as the star of this dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Bright colors that add vibrancy to any meal
Quick and easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this slaw plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The green cabbage provides a crunchy base while also being sturdy enough to hold up against the dressing. The ripe mango adds a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lime juice, creating a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.

Red bell pepper not only contributes a pop of color but also brings a slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste. Red onion adds a mild sharpness which complements the sweetness of the mango and honey. Grated carrot is a fantastic addition for extra crunch and a hint of earthiness, helping to round out the flavors in this vibrant slaw.

Preparation Tips

When preparing the vegetables, ensure to finely shred the cabbage and finely slice the onion and bell pepper; this will help all the flavors meld together seamlessly. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife for even cuts, which not only helps with texture but also with the visual appeal of the dish.

To enhance the mango's sweetness, choose one that is slightly soft to the touch but not overly ripe. The color should be a blend of yellow and red, indicating ripeness. If mango is out of season or unavailable, consider substituting it with pineapple for a similar sweetness and tropical flair.

Serving Suggestions

Letting the slaw sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the dressing to penetrate the vegetables, enhancing their flavors. This slight resting time also helps to soften the cabbage a bit, making the slaw even more enjoyable and easier to eat. Serve it chilled on a hot day for a refreshingly cool side dish.

For a delightful contrast, pair the Jamaican Mango Slaw with grilled meats or fish. The zesty lime dressing complements BBQ flavors beautifully. Consider serving it alongside jerk chicken or ribs to elevate your meal further. You can also add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an even brighter flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 carrot, grated

For the Dressing

Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced mango, sliced red bell pepper, red onion, and grated carrot.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss gently to combine. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider topping your slaw with toasted coconut or a handful of chopped nuts. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing to suit your taste preferences!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Jamaican Mango Slaw can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect option for meal prep. You can prepare the slaw components a day in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. Just mix the dressing just before serving to keep the cabbage crisp and vibrant.

If you have leftovers, store the slaw in the refrigerator for up to two days. The vegetables may start to soften over time, but the flavors will continue to marry beautifully. If needed, you can refresh the slaw with a little extra lime juice or olive oil to brighten it up.

Variations and Dietary Adjustments

Feel free to adjust this slaw to suit your dietary needs. For a lower-calorie version, you can replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener like agave or stevia. Adding toasted nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or chopped almonds, can introduce a delightful crunch and extra nutrients.

If you're looking for a spicy kick, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the dressing. This slaw is versatile enough to adapt to various flavor profiles, so don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients that suit your preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours ahead but add the dressing just before serving for the best crunch.

→ What can I substitute for mango?

If mango isn't available, try using diced pineapple or apple for a similar sweetness.

→ Can I add protein to this slaw?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with this slaw.

→ Is this slaw vegan?

Yes, as long as you use a plant-based sweetener instead of honey, this slaw is entirely vegan.