How to Make Mango Slaw (Fresh, Crunchy & Tropical in 15 Minutes) (Step by Step)

Fresh Mango Slaw is crunchy, tropical, and ready in 15 minutes with sweet mango, tangy lime and fresh cilantro.

See Me Cook — today's recipe is a summer essential: Fresh Mango Slaw in 15 Minutes. My favorite topping for fish tacos, and incredible as a standalone salad. Let's go!

Step 1: Shred the Cabbage

Use a mandoline or sharp knife to shred both cabbages paper-thin. The thinner the cabbage, the better the slaw. Add to a large bowl with shredded carrots and sliced bell pepper.

Step 2: Make the Lime-Honey Dressing

Whisk lime juice, olive oil, honey, fish sauce, red pepper flakes, and salt. Taste it — bright, tangy, slightly sweet, hint of heat. That's the goal!

Mango Slaw – Recipe Card

Prep Time15 min
Cook Time0 min
Total Time15 min
Servings6
Calories110 kcal per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
  • 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
  • 1 large ripe mango, peeled and julienned
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp fish sauce or soy sauce
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine both cabbages, carrots, bell pepper, and green onions in a large bowl.
  2. Whisk lime juice, oil, honey, fish sauce, red pepper flakes, and salt.
  3. Pour dressing over the slaw and toss well.
  4. Add mango and cilantro and toss gently — mango is delicate!
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Refrigerate 15 min before serving.
  7. Serve immediately for crunchiest results.

Step 3: Dress the Slaw

Pour dressing over the cabbage mix. Toss well with tongs. Let sit 5 minutes to soften slightly and absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Add Mango and Cilantro

The best step! Add julienned mango strips and fresh cilantro. Toss gently — mango is delicate, keep it in distinct beautiful strips.

Step 5: Final Taste and Serve

Adjust lime, honey, or salt. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate 15 minutes to develop flavors.

FAQ

No cilantro?

Use fresh mint or Thai basil for a different but equally delicious flavor!

That's your 15-minute Mango Slaw! Tropical, crunchy, irresistible. Comment below!

Close-up of mango slaw showing vibrant tropical colors with lime dressing