If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, zesty dish that hits all the right notes of fresh, sweet, and tangy, you’re going to adore this Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe. This slaw bursts with bright colors and even brighter flavors, making it the perfect side or light meal on sunny days or whenever you crave something lively and healthy. The juicy mangoes bring a natural sweetness that dances beautifully with the crisp cabbage and peppery cilantro, all uplifted by the zing of lime. It’s such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each item plays a special role, adding crunch, sweetness, or a tangy punch that makes every bite exciting.
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced: Choose mangoes that are fragrant and soft to ensure sweet, juicy chunks in your slaw.
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded: Adds a satisfying crunch and a mild, fresh flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1 large carrot, grated: Brings a splash of vibrant orange color and natural sweetness.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers a sweet, crisp texture and a pop of red for visual appeal.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, aromatic bite that cuts through the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Brings a bright, herbal note that perfectly complements lime.
- 3 tablespoons lime juice: The key to that tangy lift that makes this slaw so refreshing.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup: Balances the tartness with gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a subtle nutty richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the fresh flavors.
How to Make Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Fresh Ingredients
Begin by peeling and dicing the mangoes into bite-sized pieces that will melt in your mouth. Finely shred the green cabbage, grate the carrot, and thinly slice the red bell pepper and red onion. Chop the fresh cilantro so that its fragrant oils can mingle well throughout the slaw. Getting these textures right is the foundation for a perfect slaw experience.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Mango
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the diced mango, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, sliced bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Mixing these fresh ingredients allows their natural colors and textures to shine through, giving your slaw a lively look and diverse mouthfeel.
Step 3: Whisk the Tangy Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. This dressing is bright, slightly sweet, and imbued with a touch of earthiness from the sesame oil. It’s the magic that brings the slaw’s flavors into perfect harmony.
Step 4: Dress the Slaw and Let It Rest
Pour the dressing over your vibrant veggie and mango mixture, then toss gently but thoroughly until every shred and chunk is coated. Let the slaw rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving—this short wait lets the flavors marry beautifully without losing the crisp texture.
How to Serve Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling a few toasted sesame seeds or additional chopped cilantro on top just before serving. These garnishes add a lovely crunch and a fresh burst of green that makes the dish look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even as a zesty topping on burgers. It’s a versatile companion that brings balance and brightness to hearty mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual meal, serve the slaw in individual small glass bowls or inside crisp lettuce cups for a fun, handheld snack. You can also layer it on crackers with a dollop of creamy cheese for a surprising appetizer twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This slaw keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the cabbage may soften a little over time, but the flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious.
Freezing
Because of the fresh crispness and juicy ingredients, freezing is not recommended for this slaw. The texture would be compromised once thawed, losing that refreshing crunch you want.
Reheating
Reheating is best avoided. This dish is intended to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature to fully appreciate the vibrant flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I substitute ingredients in the Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of red onion, mild green onions can work instead. You can also swap out sesame oil for olive oil, though it will alter the flavor slightly. The key is maintaining balance between sweet, tangy, and fresh.
How ripe should the mangoes be?
Choose mangoes that feel slightly soft to the touch and give off a sweet fragrance. They should be ripe enough to be juicy but not so soft that they become mushy when diced.
Is this slaw vegan-friendly?
Yes, it’s perfect for a vegan diet, especially if you use maple syrup instead of honey. It’s a wonderfully plant-based dish that shines in simplicity and flavor.
How long can I let the slaw rest after tossing with the dressing?
Five to ten minutes is ideal. This resting time helps the flavors meld and the acidity to slightly soften the veggies, but don’t leave it much longer or the cabbage will lose its crispness.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! This Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe scales up nicely. Just be sure to toss the slaw gently and evenly with the dressing so the flavors are perfectly distributed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, and this Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe delivers exactly that. It’s an effortless way to brighten your meals with fresh, lively flavors and gorgeous colors. I encourage you to try it soon—your taste buds will thank you, and your friends or family might just ask you to make it again!
Print
Refreshing Mango Slaw with Lime and Cilantro Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Mango Slaw is a refreshing and colorful side dish featuring ripe mangoes, crunchy cabbage, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness from honey and a hint of sesame oil, this slaw is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment for grilled dishes or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruits
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables and Fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mangoes, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, thinly sliced red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Toss Slaw with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed vegetables and fruit. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the flavorful dressing.
- Let it Rest: Allow the slaw to rest for 5 to 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together and the vegetables soften slightly before serving. This resting time enhances the taste and texture of the slaw.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Adjust the lime juice and honey quantities to balance tartness and sweetness to your preference.
- For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts or toasted sesame seeds when serving.
- This slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance and chilled; however, toss again before serving to redistribute dressing.
- Use ripe but firm mangoes to maintain a good texture in the slaw.
