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Mango slaw is my go-to when I want something bright, crunchy, and unexpectedly delicious—plus it takes almost no time at all to put together. With cubes of juicy mango tossed in a creamy spicy dressing and lots of crisp veggies, it is the perfect cool side for summer meals or anytime you want to add a pop of color to your plate.
My family cannot get enough of this mango slaw especially at picnics or taco nights. Once I brought it to a potluck and people started asking for the recipe before the meal was even over.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: plain for a creamy tangy base I like to use whole milk yogurt for richness
- Mayonnaise: gives the sauce smooth body and creaminess use one without added sugar for best taste
- Sriracha: brings a gentle heat add more or less to suit your spice level I personally love it extra spicy
- Lime juice: brightens the flavors always choose freshly squeezed if possible
- Coleslaw mix: quick and saves time look for a mix with mostly green cabbage for best crunch
- Cabbage: purple or red cabbage adds color and extra crunch choose a head with tight leaves and shiny surfaces
- Mangoes: ripe but not mushy pick mangoes that give slightly when squeezed and have a fruity aroma
- Red onion: gives mild sharpness for less bite opt for green onions or shallots
- Cilantro: adds fresh herbal lift look for bunches with bright green leaves
- Salt: enhances all the natural flavors use fine sea salt for even mixing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- Combine Greek yogurt mayonnaise freshly squeezed lime juice sriracha and salt in a medium bowl Whisk together until everything becomes a smooth creamy dressing with a pale orange color and a bright fresh scent This is your flavor-packed base
- Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
- Peel and dice ripe mangoes into half-inch cubes Slice the red onion and cabbage as thinly as possible Chop the cilantro leaves but keep the stems out for the best texture Place coleslaw mix extra cabbage mango onion and cilantro into a large mixing bowl Mix gently so the colors stay vibrant
- Dress and Toss:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the fresh mixture Use tongs or two large forks to toss everything together gently so the sauce coats every piece but the mango chunks stay intact Tossing should take about two minutes so everything is evenly mixed and glossy
- Taste and Adjust:
- Give the slaw a taste Add extra sriracha for more heat or another squeeze of lime juice for extra tang Sprinkle with a pinch more salt if it needs it Adjust bit by bit to your preference
- Serve:
- Spoon the mango slaw into a serving bowl Serve right away for maximum crunchiness or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving
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Mango is my favorite ingredient in this dish not only for its sunny flavor but also for how it transforms the slaw into something people crave My kids always sneak extra bites before the bowl even hits the table and now it is a tradition at every family barbecue
Storage Tips
This slaw keeps well in the fridge for up to two days Store it in a sealed container so the flavors stay fresh and the cabbage remains crisp If you want to keep things extra crunchy mix the dressing with the veggies just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
No mangos available try using ripe pineapple or papaya instead For a dairy free version swap out the Greek yogurt and mayo for your favorite plant based alternatives Cilantro is sometimes polarizing so parsley or thinly sliced green onions are great substitutes
Serving Suggestions
Pile this slaw onto fish tacos or pulled pork sliders for a sweet and spicy contrast Serve with grilled chicken or as a cool salad beside spicy barbecued meats It even works as a topping for grain bowls or tucked into wraps for a burst of flavor
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Cultural Context
Mango slaw brings together tropical fruit with classic slaw ingredients reflecting the way many cuisines blend sweet and savory for something irresistible In many Latin American and Caribbean communities mango is used in savory salads and salsas so this recipe draws inspiration from those sunny traditions
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I know if a mango is ripe enough to use?
Choose mangoes that yield gently to pressure and have a slight fruity aroma. Firm mangoes need more time to ripen.
- → What protein dishes pair best with mango slaw?
This slaw shines with tacos, barbecue pork, grilled chicken, and seafood—especially fish or shrimp dishes.
- → Can I make mango slaw ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the components separately, store in the fridge, and toss just before serving for peak crunch and freshness.
- → What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or extra mayo can substitute for Greek yogurt, depending on if you prefer tanginess or extra creaminess.
- → How can I make the slaw spicier?
Add extra sriracha or toss in sliced jalapeños or Serrano peppers for an additional punch of heat.