Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

Name: Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded purple cabbage; 1 large mango, peeled and diced; ⅓ cup dried cranberries; ¼ cup sliced green onions; ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional but adds great flavor); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Author: Lora

Published: October 17, 2025

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Introduction to Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

I am a mother and a food enthusiast juggling between a busy routine and a quest to try more lively yet easy recipes most of the time for my loved ones. And therein lies the magic of my Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw! A rainbow-colored dish with bold, bright flavors to match. Whether you need a last-minute side after a crazy workday or something to wow your friends at your next soiree, this slaw is your ticket out of the jam. And it’s really fast to pull together, so that’s a win for me!

Why You’ll Love This Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

One of the best things about this Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw is how effortlessly delicious it is! In just 15 minutes, you can create a vibrant dish that not only looks stunning but tastes amazing. It’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any meal. Plus, the sweet mango and tangy cranberries shine together, offering a flavor explosion that even picky eaters will love!

Ingredients for Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

When preparing this delightful Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw, you’ll need just a handful of fresh and vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

Shredded purple cabbage: This is the star of the show, bringing color and crunch. You can often find it pre-shredded at the store, saving you a bit of time.
Mango: A large, ripe mango adds sweetness and tropical flair. If you can’t find fresh mango, try using frozen chunks that are thawed.
Dried cranberries: These little gems offer a chewy texture and tart flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the mango.
Green onions: They give a mild onion flavor and a lovely pop of green. Feel free to swap them with chives if you prefer a subtler taste.
Cilantro (optional): If you love it, chop up some fresh cilantro to elevate the flavor. If not, parsley is a good substitute.
Olive oil: A good quality olive oil brings richness to the dressing without overpowering the other flavors.
Apple cider vinegar: This tangy vinegar is perfect for brightening up the slaw. You can also use white wine vinegar in a pinch.
Lime juice: Fresh lemon juice can also work well here, adding a citrusy zip that complements the other ingredients.
Honey: A touch of honey enhances the sweetness of the dish. For a vegan option, simply swap it out for agave syrup.
Salt and pepper: Don’t forget to season to taste! These staples ensure all the flavors come together beautifully.

You can find the precise measurements and details at the bottom of this article, ready for printing whenever you need a refresher in the kitchen!

How to Make Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

Creating this colorful Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time!

Step 1: Combine the Veggies and Fruits

Start by grabbing a large bowl. It’s time to make those vibrant colors pop! Add the shredded purple cabbage, diced mango, dried cranberries, and sliced green onions. If you’re a cilantro lover, go ahead and toss that in too.

Use a large spoon to gently mix everything together. I always find joy in watching how the colors meld together, creating a beautiful canvas that’s ready to shine!

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Next, let’s whip up the dressing that ties this slaw together. In a small jar or bowl, pour in the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and fresh lime juice.

Don’t forget the honey, salt, and pepper as well.

Now, it’s time to channel your inner chef! Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. I love seeing how the ingredients blend, creating a smooth and glossy dressing that will dance on your slaw!

Step 3: Toss it All Together

Here comes the fun part! Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture you prepared in Step 1.

Now, use that large spoon again to toss everything gently until each bite is evenly coated with that delicious dressing.

This step is critical! An even coating ensures every morsel is bursting with flavor. Just picture each crunch of cabbage! Yum!

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Finally, let your slaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This little pause allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Trust me, it’s worth the wait! When you finally bring it to the table, that mush of flavors will have a chance to shine, making every bite a delicious experience!

Tips for Success

Make it ahead: Prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. It tastes even better as it sits!
Adjust sweetness: Feel free to add more honey or a bit of maple syrup to suit your taste.
Get creative: Consider tossing in some nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Keep it colorful: Use a mix of veggies like bell peppers or radishes for extra visual appeal.
Taste as you go: Always adjust seasoning to ensure it’s just right for your palate.

Equipment Needed

Large bowl: Essential for mixing; a mixing bowl works well too.
Small jar or bowl: Needed for whisking the dressing; a measuring cup can substitute.
Whisk or fork: Use a whisk for smooth dressing; a fork can do the job if that’s all you have!
Large spoon: Perfect for tossing the slaw; any spoon will work.

Variations of Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

Add nuts or seeds: Toss in some slivered almonds or sunflower seeds for an irresistible crunch and added nutrition.
Spice it up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Fruit swap: Experiment with other fruits like pineapple or apples for a different sweet twist.
Make it zesty: Add a splash of orange juice or a hint of ginger to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
Crunchy additions: Include shredded carrots or radishes for both texture and color.
Herb variations: Swap out cilantro for fresh mint or parsley to create a new flavor experience.

Serving Suggestions for Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast.
Pair it with tacos or burritos for a crunchy topper that brightens each bite.
Enjoy it with a light vinaigrette dressing over mixed greens for a full meal.
Consider garnishing with additional cilantro or lime wedges for an eye-catching presentation.

FAQs about Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw tastes even better when it has time to chill. Prepare it a few hours ahead, or even the night before, and just give it a good toss before serving.

What if I don’t like mango?

No problem at all! Substitute the mango with another fruit, like pineapple or apples, for a different twist. Just ensure it’s something you enjoy!

Is this slaw suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, it is! The Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw is naturally vegan. Just replace honey with agave syrup for added sweetness if you’d like.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days, but the veggies may soften over time.

Can I add protein to this slaw?

Definitely! You can mix in cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken. This turn your slaw into a heartier meal that’s still vibrant and fresh!

Final Thoughts

Creating my Purple Cabbage, Mango & Cranberry Slaw goes beyond just preparing a meal; it’s about weaving vibrancy and joy into our daily lives. The explosion of flavors reminds me that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.

Every bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients and colors, turning any simple dinner into something special. Whether I serve it to friends or enjoy it as a family side dish, this slaw always brings smiles. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine!