Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw with Mango: Your Go-To Zesty Summer Salad Recipe

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It’s hard to believe, but next month marks a significant milestone for this blog: nine incredible years of sharing delicious recipes and culinary adventures! As I reflect on nearly a decade of food blogging, a wave of nostalgia washes over me. I’ve spent countless hours recently digging through the archives, rediscovering dishes that have graced our family table and delighted readers for years. This journey has not only been about perfecting recipes but also about capturing memories and evolving with the digital landscape. To celebrate this anniversary and breathe new life into beloved classics, I’ve embarked on a special project: revisiting and revamping some of my older posts. This involves not only updating the photography to match today’s standards but also refining the recipes and enhancing the overall presentation.

One of the most cherished recipes I recently revisited was from June of 2008, a true original from the very first week this blog came to life. Our Mini Honey Mustard Meatloaves with Roasted Potatoes have been a steadfast family favorite, appearing on our dinner table countless times over the years. This update was particularly special, not only receiving a fresh set of vibrant photos but also an engaging video tutorial to guide new and old fans alike.

While I was busy revamping that beloved meatloaf recipe, I stumbled upon a fantastic slaw recipe from Cooking Light that I had originally paired with it. It sparked an idea – why not take that inspiration and give it a fresh, modern twist? I’ve always had a soft spot for crisp, flavorful slaw salads of all kinds; they are such a versatile and refreshing addition to any meal. Some of my all-time favorites include this savory Asian Almond Slaw Salad, the vibrant Mexican Slaw Salad with Black Beans, and a consistent lunchtime go-to, this hearty Broccoli Slaw Salad made with gorgonzola, crunchy nuts, and a balsamic vinegar dressing. Each one brings its own unique character to the table, but I was ready for something new.

Introducing Your New Favorite Summer Side: Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw with Mango

This Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw with Mango is truly the perfect side dish for any spring or summer gathering. Its bright flavors and satisfying crunch make it an ideal companion for backyard barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or even simple weeknight meals. The slaw pairs beautifully with classic grilled burgers, providing a zesty contrast to savory patties. But its versatility doesn’t stop there; it’s equally delightful alongside grilled chicken, flaky fish, or any other barbecue fare you might be serving up. What makes this particular slaw truly shine is the addition of fresh, juicy mango. Lately, mangoes have been on sale at my local market, so I’ve had a steady supply in the house. Their tropical sweetness provides a wonderful counterpoint to the tangy mustard dressing, elevating this simple side dish to something truly special.

The combination of crunchy broccoli slaw and sweet mango creates an irresistible texture and flavor profile. Broccoli slaw offers a fantastic base—it’s lighter than traditional cabbage slaw, packed with nutrients, and incredibly quick to prepare. The vibrant green of the broccoli contrasts beautifully with the sunny orange of the mango, making this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious. The dressing, a harmonious blend of white wine vinegar, a touch of honey, robust whole-grain mustard, and creamy reduced-fat mayonnaise, coats every strand of slaw and every piece of mango with a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. It’s truly a symphony of tastes that awakens the palate and leaves you feeling refreshed.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw

This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for busy days, but a few tips can ensure your slaw is always top-notch:

• Chilling is Key: While you can serve this slaw right away, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (or even an hour) really lets the flavors meld and deepen. The dressing has time to tenderize the broccoli slaw slightly, making it even more enjoyable.
• Customize Your Sweetness: The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of honey, but feel free to adjust this to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add another teaspoon or two. For a tangier slaw, a splash more white wine vinegar can do the trick.
• Mango Selection: Choose a ripe but firm mango. It should give slightly when squeezed and have a fragrant, sweet aroma near the stem. Avoid overly soft or bruised mangoes. Dicing it into uniform pieces ensures an even distribution throughout the slaw.
• Get Creative with Add-ins: As I mentioned, I was tempted to add black beans and diced avocado – and I highly recommend trying it next time! Other fantastic additions could include toasted slivered almonds, sunflower seeds for extra crunch, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or mint for an herbaceous kick, or even some thinly sliced red onion for an extra zing. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle heat if you enjoy it.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine it with the broccoli slaw and mango, toss, and enjoy. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.

What to Serve with Your Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw with Mango

This vibrant Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw with Mango is incredibly versatile and can complement a wide array of main dishes. Here are some of my top recommendations for perfect pairings:

For a hearty and flavorful meal, serve this slaw alongside a Grilled Barbecue Bison Burger. The lean, robust flavor of bison burgers, especially when seasoned with smoky barbecue spices, creates a fantastic contrast with the bright, tangy, and slightly sweet notes of the slaw. The crisp texture of the slaw also adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the burger, making each bite an exciting experience.

If you’re looking for a fuss-free yet incredibly satisfying meal, consider pairing this slaw with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches from Taste and Tell. The sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki barbecue chicken, tender and succulent from the slow cooker, find their perfect match in our zesty slaw. The mustard-mango dressing cuts through the richness of the chicken, adding a much-needed freshness and a delightful textural element to the sandwich experience.

For a healthier, comforting option, this slaw is superb with BBQ Pulled Pork Stuffed Sweet Potatoes by The Lean Green Bean. The tender, smoky pulled pork nestled in a sweet baked potato creates a savory base that craves a bright, acidic counterpoint. Our Tangy Mustard Broccoli Slaw with Mango provides exactly that, adding a burst of fresh flavor and a pleasant crunch that prevents the meal from feeling too heavy. It’s a wonderful way to balance rich flavors with something light and invigorating.

And finally, for a light and summery main course, pair your slaw with Apricot Grilled Chicken from Mom to Mom Nutrition. The subtle sweetness and slight tartness of the apricot glaze on the grilled chicken harmonize beautifully with the mango and honey in the slaw’s dressing. The coolness and crispness of the slaw act as a refreshing accompaniment to the warm, smoky chicken, making for an ideal warm-weather meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.