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Delicious coleslaw with papaya and vibrant vegetables

Coleslaw with Papaya


  • Author: Sarah Mendez
  • Total Time: 1 hour (includes chilling)
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

This Coleslaw with Papaya is a vibrant, refreshing twist on classic coleslaw. It combines crunchy white and purple cabbage with sweet green papaya, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with a hint of exotic flavor. Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or as a light side dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium white cabbage – Cored and shredded, adds mild flavor and crunch
  • 1 small purple cabbage – Cored and shredded, adds color and nutrients
  • 1 small green papaya – Cored and julienned, provides subtle sweetness and crispness
  • 80 grams mayonnaise – For creamy richness
  • 50 grams strained yoghurt – Adds tang and lightens the texture
  • 3 tablespoons cider vinegar – Brings brightness and acidity
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice – Fresh and zesty
  • 1 tablespoon honey – Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Optional, adds umami depth
  • 1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce – Optional, for savory flavor punch
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds subtle heat and complexity
  • ½ teaspoon fennel seeds – Coarsely crushed, offers a hint of anise
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances all flavors
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds balance and heat

Optional Add-Ons

  • Shredded carrots – For extra sweetness and crunch
  • Toasted nuts – Walnuts or almonds for a nutty crunch
  • Fresh herbs – Cilantro or mint for a bright, fresh finish

Substitutions and Shortcuts

  • Savoy cabbage – A softer alternative to standard cabbage
  • Dairy-free yoghurt – Use coconut yoghurt for a vegan option
  • Rice vinegar – Works in place of cider vinegar
  • Shredded carrots or apples – Use if green papaya is unavailable

Instructions

  1. Prepare vegetables: Wash, core, and shred the white and purple cabbages. Peel and julienne the green papaya.
  2. Mix dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, strained yoghurt, cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, Worcestershire sauce, fish sauce, Dijon mustard, fennel seeds, sea salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine: Add the prepared vegetables into the bowl with the dressing and toss until well coated.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and soften the cabbage slightly.
  5. Serve: Stir gently, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare this a day in advance—just add herbs and nuts before serving for best texture.
  • Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, but best enjoyed within 24 hours.
  • Pairing: Delicious alongside grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: undefined
  • Trans Fat: undefined
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: undefined

Keywords: coleslaw with papaya, tropical slaw, green papaya slaw, creamy cabbage salad, summer papaya coleslaw, mayo yoghurt slaw, cabbage and fruit salad