The Mango Jicama Slaw is a vibrant, crunchy salad perfect for adding a fresh burst of flavor to your meals. This refreshing slaw blends the earthy taste of jicama, the sweetness of ripe mango, the crisp crunch of bell peppers, and the subtle heat from jalapeño, making it an exciting dish for all occasions. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish, a healthy taco topping, or a simple, light salad, this recipe delivers on both flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy days or special gatherings.
In this article, we will explore the origins of this slaw, break down the ingredients and preparation process, discuss variations to suit different tastes, and provide some frequently asked questions. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into the world of Mango Jicama Slaw!
What Is Mango Jicama Slaw?
At its core, Mango Jicama Slaw is a light, refreshing salad that combines thinly sliced vegetables and fruits with a tangy, flavorful dressing. The main ingredients of the slaw include jicama, a root vegetable known for its crisp texture, and mango, a tropical fruit that adds natural sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a crunchy, juicy, and colorful slaw that can complement a variety of dishes.
But the real magic happens when you add the other fresh ingredients, like bell peppers, carrots, and red onion, along with the cilantro for an aromatic finish. The dressing, made from lime juice, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper, ties it all together with a zesty, tangy kick. The result? A slaw that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavors with every bite.
The Origin of Mango Jicama Slaw
While this slaw may not be as widely known as other traditional salads, it draws on ingredients that have a rich history in various culinary traditions. Jicama, often referred to as Mexican turnip or Mexican yam bean, is a root vegetable native to Mexico and Central America. It has been a staple in the region for centuries, prized for its mild flavor and crunchy texture.
Mango, on the other hand, is one of the most popular fruits in the world, with its roots in South Asia. It’s now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions globally, including Mexico, where it pairs beautifully with local ingredients like jicama, cilantro, and lime. Combining these two ingredients, along with the other colorful vegetables, creates a fusion dish that highlights the best of Mexican street food-inspired flavors.
Ingredients for Mango Jicama Slaw
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this vibrant, crunchy slaw:
For the Slaw:
- 1 medium jicama, peeled and julienned (about 2 cups)
- 1 large mango, peeled and julienned
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup carrot, julienned or shredded
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (for heat)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
These fresh, colorful ingredients come together to create a slaw that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Creating this Mango Jicama Slaw is incredibly simple. Follow these easy steps for a slaw that will impress your guests and add a refreshing twist to any meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies and Fruit
Start by peeling and julienning the jicama and mango into thin, long strips. This gives the slaw its signature crunch and balance of texture. Jicama adds a crisp, mild flavor, while mango brings in a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Next, slice the red bell pepper, carrot, and red onion into thin strips or rounds, depending on your preference. For an extra kick, you can also finely chop a jalapeño if you like a spicy twist to your slaw.
Lastly, chop the cilantro to sprinkle over the slaw for a fresh, herbaceous note.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The acidity from the lime, combined with the sweetness of honey, creates a well-balanced dressing that complements the fresh ingredients in the slaw.
Whisk until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing emulsifies. This simple dressing brings out the flavors of the slaw without overpowering the natural tastes of the vegetables and fruits.
Step 3: Assemble the Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared jicama, mango, bell pepper, carrot, red onion, and cilantro. Toss the ingredients gently to combine.
Once everything is evenly mixed, pour the dressing over the slaw and toss again to coat the ingredients in the tangy lime dressing. The goal is to coat the slaw without making it soggy, so be sure to toss gently.
Step 4: Serve
This Mango Jicama Slaw is best served immediately for maximum crunch. However, you can also refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The slaw will stay crisp and fresh, making it a perfect addition to any summer meal, BBQ, or taco night.
Variations of Mango Jicama Slaw
While the classic version of Mango Jicama Slaw is already delicious, there are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire your own version:
- Crunch Factor: Add toasted pepitas, sliced almonds, or even sunflower seeds to the slaw for an extra layer of texture.
- Spicy Twist: If you love heat, try keeping some seeds in the jalapeño or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a more intense flavor. For an even spicier version, top the slaw with a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Creamy Version: To make this slaw creamier, stir in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt or vegan mayo. This will add richness to the dressing without sacrificing flavor.
- Herb Variations: You can switch out cilantro for other fresh herbs like mint or basil, which will give the slaw a completely new flavor profile.
Feel free to get creative and make this slaw your own!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Mango Jicama Slaw ahead of time?
While this slaw is best eaten fresh, you can prepare it up to an hour ahead of time. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.
Can I use other fruits in this slaw?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fruits. Pineapple, papaya, or apple would make excellent substitutes for mango. The key is to choose fruits that add sweetness and balance to the crunchy veggies.
What can I serve with Mango Jicama Slaw?
This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, fish, or as a refreshing snack on its own. It’s also a great side for BBQ, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
How long will Mango Jicama Slaw last in the fridge?
This slaw is best consumed within 1–2 days. While the jicama holds up well, the mango can soften over time, so it’s best eaten while the ingredients are fresh and crunchy.
Conclusion: A Fresh and Flavorful Side Dish
In conclusion, Mango Jicama Slaw is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that brings vibrant flavors and textures to any meal. Its combination of crunchy jicama, sweet mango, and tangy lime dressing makes it an irresistible option for those looking for something fresh and light. Whether you enjoy it as a taco topping, a side dish for grilled meats, or a standalone salad, this slaw is sure to impress.
Its versatility and ability to adapt to different variations—whether you add heat, make it creamy, or switch up the fruits—make it a recipe worth keeping in your repertoire. So, the next time you’re looking for a healthy, refreshing dish, look no further than Mango Jicama Slaw!
Mango Jicama Slaw: A Refreshing, Tangy Delight for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
At its core, Mango Jicama Slaw is a light, refreshing salad that combines thinly sliced vegetables and fruits with a tangy, flavorful dressing. The main ingredients of the slaw include jicama, a root vegetable known for its crisp texture, and mango, a tropical fruit that adds natural sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a crunchy, juicy, and colorful slaw that can complement a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
1 medium jicama, peeled and julienned (about 2 cups)
1 large mango, peeled and julienned
1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ cup carrot, julienned or shredded
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (for heat)
For the Dressing:
3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Veggies and Fruit
Peel and julienne jicama and mango.
Slice bell pepper, carrot, red onion, and optional jalapeño.
Chop cilantro.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine jicama, mango, bell pepper, carrot, red onion, and cilantro.
Pour dressing over the slaw and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Serve
Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld.
Great as a side for grilled meats, tacos, or as a refreshing snack.
Notes
Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors. For a crunchier texture, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or peanuts on top before serving!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Fusion / Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
Keywords: Mango jicama salad
