National Pollinator Week (June 22–28, 2026) celebrates the essential role of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators in sustaining our ecosystems. Much of the incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, and nuts we enjoy exists because of these hardworking creatures.
This vibrant mango and papaya coleslaw celebrates the bees by showcasing an abundance of pollinator-dependent ingredients. Crisp cabbage is tossed with sweet tropical fruit and fresh fragrant herbs, then dressed in a bright honey-lime vinaigrette with subtle Asian-inspired flavors. The result is a refreshing salad that's sweet, tangy, and wonderfully complex.
Every fruit, vegetable, and nut in this salad benefits from honey bee pollination. While some of these plants can self-pollinate, visits from honey bees dramatically improve pollination, increasing both yields and the quality of many crops while also helping plants produce the seeds needed for future harvests.
For the dressing, I've chosen Hawaiian chili pepper honey for a subtle, lingering heat that complements the tropical fruit. If you prefer a milder version, our Wilelaiki honey is an excellent substitute, adding rich sweetness without the heat.
