Jamaican Mango Slaw

Name: Jamaican Mango Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Inspiration

I absolutely love how vibrant and fresh Jamaican Mango Slaw is. The combination of juicy mangoes, crunchy cabbage, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that’s not only refreshing but also bursting with flavor. I often whip this slaw up as a side dish for barbecues or grilled meats. Its tropical essence brings a touch of the Caribbean to any meal, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. I usually make it in under 20 minutes, and it always impresses my guests. You’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:41:34.609Z

When I first encountered Jamaican Mango Slaw at a local Caribbean restaurant, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors. I had to learn how to make it myself! The trick I discovered is to slightly marinate the slaw ingredients in the dressing before serving, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

One night, I prepared this slaw for a summer gathering, and it disappeared within minutes. My friends loved how the sweetness of the mango complemented the crunchiness of the cabbage perfectly. Now, it's a staple in my summer recipes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A wonderful balance of sweetness and zest from fresh mangoes and lime.
Crispy texture from the cabbage that pairs beautifully with grilled dishes.
Quick and simple to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The star of this Jamaican Mango Slaw is undoubtedly the ripe mangoes. When selecting mangoes, opt for those that yield slightly to pressure, indicating ripeness and sweetness. The texture contrasts beautifully with the crunch of fresh cabbage—using green cabbage here provides a vibrant color and a subtle peppery flavor that complements the sweetness of the mango. Additionally, you can substitute Napa cabbage if you desire a milder taste.

The dressing plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness of the mango. Freshly squeezed lime juice adds acidity and brightness. It's essential to mix the dressing well; the honey should dissolve completely to ensure an even consistency. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you may replace honey with agave syrup, which works wonderfully while maintaining the dish’s balance.

Preparation Tips for the Perfect Slaw

When preparing the vegetables, a good quality mandoline slicer can save time and ensure uniformity, especially for the cabbage and bell pepper. Aim for even shreds that will all absorb flavor equally and create a beautiful presentation. If you don’t have a mandoline, finely chopping with a sharp knife works just as well; just ensure your cuts are consistent to maintain texture.

After combining the slaw mix, allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly without losing its crunch. I often make the slaw a bit ahead of time, covering it and refrigerating until I’m ready to serve. This preparation can enhance the overall flavor as the ingredients have more time to marinate in the dressing.

Ingredients

For the Slaw

2 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 ripe mango, diced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing

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

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, diced mango, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. Toss well to mix the ingredients evenly.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding some sliced radishes or a handful of nuts. This slaw can be made ahead of time
just dress it right before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This Mango Slaw is a versatile dish, perfect for pairing with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a topping for burgers. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside jerk chicken or pork, allowing the tropical flavors of the slaw to cut through the richness of the grilled meats. I often enjoy it as a light lunch filling, wrapped in a tortilla with additional protein like black beans or grilled shrimp.

For added texture and a nutritional boost, consider tossing in a handful of pumpkin seeds or crushed nuts right before serving. These not only enhance the crunch but also introduce a nice nuttiness that complements the sweet mango. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a salty contrast that elevates the flavor profile altogether.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Although this slaw is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the freshness of the ingredients, be cautious not to add the dressing until just before serving. If the slaw sits too long dressed, the cabbage may become soggy, losing its delightful crunch.

If you have leftovers, they can last in the refrigerator for about 2 days. However, they may start to lose their vibrant color and texture beyond that point. If you find it slightly wilted, try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a dash more honey to reinvigorate the flavors before serving it again. This simple trick can breathe new life into your slaw!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crunchy.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Mango Slaw?

This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or jerk chicken.

→ Is it possible to add different fruits?

Absolutely! Pineapple or papaya would also be fantastic additions to this slaw.

→ Can I make it vegan?

Yes, simply substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to make it completely plant-based.