Tropical Coleslaw

This Tropical Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of mango with zesty lime juice. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side for any meal, this slaw brings a unique twist to traditional coleslaw. Its bright colors and delightful flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of mango and lime juice creates a sweet and tangy taste that is truly irresistible.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious slaw in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: This Tropical Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch on its own.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from cashews, this dish is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Tropical Coleslaw, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Grater or food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all ingredients without spilling.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables, making prep work quicker and easier.
• Grater or food processor: Saves time when shredding carrots and cabbage.

Ingredients

This Tropical Coleslaw is bursting with sweetness and citrus flavors from mango and lime juice.

For the Slaw

• 1/2 purple cabbage
• 1/2 green cabbage
• 2 medium carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped green onion
• Juice from 1 large lime
• 2 Tbsp sugar
• 2 Tbsp minced cilantro
• 1 large ripe mango
• 1 cup cashews
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup olive oil
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tropical Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Slice cabbage very thin and add it to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Grate the Carrots

Peel and grate the carrots. Add grated carrots to the cabbage.

Step 3: Add Mango

Peel and chop mango meat into small pieces. Add it to the bowl with cabbage.

Step 4: Mix Other Ingredients

Add chopped green onions, lime juice, sugar, minced cilantro, olive oil, and some cayenne pepper. Gently mix everything well.

Step 5: Incorporate Cashews

Add cashews to the mixture and gently fold them in until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Serve or Refrigerate

Serve right away or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Note:

The exact amount of slaw will depend on the size of the cabbage.

Enjoy your colorful and flavorful Tropical Coleslaw!

How to Serve Tropical Coleslaw

Tropical coleslaw adds a refreshing twist to any meal. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a delightful addition to your dining experience.

As a BBQ Side

• Pair it with grilled chicken or ribs for a sweet and tangy contrast.

In Tacos

• Use tropical coleslaw as a crunchy topping on fish or shrimp tacos for added texture and flavor.

With Sandwiches

• Serve it alongside pulled pork or turkey sandwiches for a refreshing crunch that enhances the meal.

As a Standalone Salad

• Enjoy tropical coleslaw on its own as a light, healthy lunch option packed with vitamins.

With Rice Dishes

• Add it as a side to coconut rice or fried rice dishes for an exciting balance of flavors.

How to Perfect Tropical Coleslaw

Making the perfect tropical coleslaw is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cabbage, mango, and cilantro for the best flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar based on your taste preference; some may prefer more sweetness from the mango.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the slaw sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate additional nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or almonds, for extra crunch and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Tropical Coleslaw

Tropical coleslaw pairs well with various side dishes that complement its fruity notes. Here are some excellent options.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds an irresistible charred flavor.
2. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans balances well with the tanginess of coleslaw.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad provides hearty comfort alongside the refreshing slaw.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing can enhance the tropical theme.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers crispness, making it an ideal pairing.
6. Fruit Salad: Keep the tropical vibes going with a mixed fruit salad bursting with freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Tropical coleslaw is simple to prepare, but small errors can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the slicing technique: If you don’t slice the cabbage thinly, it can lead to a crunchy and uneven texture. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform slices.
• Using unripe mango: An under-ripe mango won’t provide the sweet flavor needed for this dish. Choose a ripe mango that gives slightly when pressed.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning can make your slaw bland. Always taste before serving and add more lime juice or sugar as needed.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can bruised the cabbage and result in a watery slaw. Gently fold the ingredients together to maintain their texture.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving tropical coleslaw right after mixing may not allow flavors to meld properly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for a better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Tropical coleslaw is best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor absorption.

Freezing Tropical Coleslaw

• Freezing is not recommended as it changes the texture of cabbage and other vegetables.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, but expect some texture loss.

Reheating Tropical Coleslaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This method may soften the vegetables further.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method retains more crunch than microwaving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Tropical Coleslaw?

Yes! Feel free to add different fruits like pineapple or kiwi for added sweetness. You can also adjust herbs or spices based on your preferences.

How long does Tropical Coleslaw last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, tropical coleslaw lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Tropical Coleslaw?

This slaw pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish at BBQs. It adds a refreshing touch to any meal!

Is Tropical Coleslaw healthy?

Absolutely! With fresh vegetables and fruits, this dish is low in calories while providing essential nutrients and fiber.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare tropical coleslaw up to a day in advance. Just remember to mix well before serving for the best flavor.

Final Thoughts

Tropical coleslaw is not just vibrant; it’s versatile too! This refreshing side dish works beautifully with various meals, from BBQs to picnics. Customize it with your favorite fruits or spices for a unique twist. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Tropical Coleslaw

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Tropical Coleslaw is a colorful and refreshing side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This vibrant slaw features the sweet juiciness of ripe mango paired with zesty lime juice, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this slaw is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare in just 15 minutes. Packed with crunchy vegetables like cabbage and carrots, along with cashews for an added nutty texture, it’s a versatile dish that complements grilled meats, sandwiches, and more. Customize it by adding your favorite fruits or adjusting the sweetness to perfectly suit your taste buds. Enjoy this Tropical Coleslaw as a standout side that everyone will love!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 purple cabbage
• 1/2 green cabbage
• 2 medium carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped green onion
• Juice from 1 large lime
• 2 Tbsp sugar
• 2 Tbsp minced cilantro
• 1 large ripe mango
• 1 cup cashews
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup olive oil
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Thinly slice the purple and green cabbages and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Peel and grate the carrots; add them to the bowl with the cabbage.
3. Peel and chop the mango into small pieces; mix into the slaw.
4. Add chopped green onions, lime juice, sugar, minced cilantro, olive oil, and cayenne pepper to the bowl; gently mix everything together.
5. Fold in cashews until evenly distributed.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg