Jamaican Mango Slaw

Name: Jamaican Mango Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced; 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple); 1 red bell pepper, julienned; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Juice of 2 limes; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love creating fresh and vibrant salads, and Jamaican Mango Slaw has become one of my favorites. This dish combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with a zesty lime dressing and crunchy vegetables, resulting in a refreshing side that’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a light lunch. Every bite bursts with tropical flavors that transport you straight to the Caribbean. It’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen that never fails to impress guests.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:28:22.692Z

When I first discovered Jamaican Mango Slaw, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it is. The combination of tangy lime, sweet mango, and fresh veggies creates a vibrant mix that’s perfect for any meal. I remember serving it alongside grilled chicken, and it was a huge hit!

One of the best tips I can share is to let the slaw sit for a few minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving every bite an extra zing. Trust me; the wait is absolutely worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright tropical flavors that awaken your taste buds
Crunchy texture from fresh veggies mixed with juicy mango
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to an incredible Jamaican Mango Slaw lies in the freshness of its ingredients. Using ripe mangoes is essential; look for those that yield slightly to pressure, indicating they're sweet and juicy. If mangoes are out of season, you can substitute with diced pineapple for a similar tropical flavor. The crunchiness of the slaw primarily comes from the cabbage and bell peppers, so choose a crisp variety of cabbage, such as Napa or Savoy, for a delightful texture.

The dressing plays a crucial role in tying all the flavors together. The acidity from the lime juice brightens the sweetness of the mango, while honey balances the tartness. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, agave syrup works perfectly in place of honey. Ensure that you whisk the dressing until it's well emulsified, which helps it cling to the vegetables instead of sinking to the bottom.

Preparation Techniques

When preparing the slaw, uniformity in the size of the vegetable cuts enhances the eating experience. Aim for thin, evenly julienned red bell pepper and sliced red onion, as this allows each bite to have a balanced flavor. If you're short on time, consider using pre-shredded cabbage, but cutting your own will give you a fresher taste and crunch. I often recommend slicing your onion after the peppers for easier cleanup of any lingering odor.

Once everything is combined, letting the slaw rest for about 5 minutes before serving is crucial. This brief marination allows the cabbage to soften slightly while absorbing the dressing's flavors. If you're prepping for a gathering, you can make the slaw a few hours in advance; just remember to keep it chilled to maintain that refreshing crispness. Avoid mixing in the dressing until right before serving to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Mango Slaw

For the Slaw

2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing

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

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl for a refreshing dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine the diced mangoes, shredded cabbage, red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently to combine. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped nuts or seeds just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Mango Slaw is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various dishes. It’s a perfect side for grilled meats like jerk chicken or fish tacos, adding a crunchy, tangy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or chickpeas to create a light, nutrient-packed lunch that's filling yet refreshing.

For a potluck or BBQ, you can elevate this slaw even further by adding extras like diced avocado for creaminess or sliced radishes for an extra kick. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the mango beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to prepare the slaw ahead of time, it's essential to store it correctly to maintain its freshness. The slaw can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember not to add the dressing until you're ready to serve, as this will keep the vegetables crisp and crunchy, rather than soggy.

Should you have leftovers, the slaw can be refrigerated for up to two days. However, it's best to consume it sooner for optimal freshness. If it begins to lose its crunch, try reviving it with a splash of extra lime juice and a quick toss. This simple refresh will brighten the flavors and give it a second life!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Mango Slaw?

This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a topping for sandwiches.

→ Is it possible to make this slaw vegan?

Absolutely! Just substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.

→ Can I use frozen mangoes?

While fresh mangoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use frozen mangoes. Just thaw and drain them before use.