If you’re dreaming of a bright, refreshing side that brings a burst of tropical sunshine to your plate, look no further than this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe. It beautifully combines crisp cabbage, sweet pineapple, and a creamy, tangy dressing to create a coleslaw that’s far from ordinary. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue or just want to add some island flair to your meal, this recipe is an absolute showstopper with vibrant colors and flavors that dance on your palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe is all about simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color, making this dish both delightful and visually inviting.
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage: Provides the crisp, crunchy base that’s essential for any great coleslaw.
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage: Adds a pop of beautiful color along with slightly earthier sweetness.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Brings a natural sweetness and vibrant orange hue to the mix.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), drained: Infuses tropical sweetness and juiciness that takes this coleslaw to the next level.
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions: Offers a mild sharpness and fresh green accent.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Gives the coleslaw its creamy texture and richness.
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and lightness, balancing the mayonnaise perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Brings acidity to brighten and cut through the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Provides gentle sweetness to complement the pineapple.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the beautiful flavors.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by tossing together shredded green and red cabbage, carrots, pineapple chunks, green onions, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl. This colorful medley forms the heart of your coleslaw, with each bite offering delightful contrasts in crunch and sweetness.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended. This dressing is where the magic happens, marrying creaminess with tang and a touch of natural sweetness.
Step 3: Dress the Slaw
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and fruit mixture, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. This ensures every shred and chunk is coated with the luscious dressing for maximum flavor impact.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate
Refrigerate your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cabbage softens just enough while still maintaining its crispness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the coleslaw one last gentle toss, then serve it cold as a refreshing accompaniment to your main course. Get ready for endless compliments!
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling a few extra chopped fresh cilantro leaves or some toasted coconut flakes on top for an added tropical touch. A wedge of lime on the side can be squeezed over for a zesty finish that brightens every mouthful.
Side Dishes
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like teriyaki chicken, pulled pork, or fresh seafood. It’s also fantastic alongside classic picnic dishes, adding a refreshing break from heavier flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this coleslaw atop crispy taco shells for a tropical slaw taco, or use it as a colorful topping on burgers and sandwiches to instantly elevate your everyday meals with island vibes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It keeps well but tastes best fresh because the cabbage starts to soften over time.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe because the raw vegetables lose their crisp texture and the dressing can separate when thawed.
Reheating
This coleslaw is intended to be served cold, so reheating is not advised. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge for that perfect refreshing crunch and tang.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain the pineapple chunks well to avoid making the coleslaw too watery. Both fresh and canned pineapple work beautifully in this recipe.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise for a vegan version and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt to maintain the creamy texture without dairy.
Can I prepare the Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe a day ahead?
Yes, making it a day ahead is great because it allows the flavors to meld even more, but keep the dressing separate until right before serving if you prefer extra crunch.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeño to the dressing for a subtle kick that balances the sweetness wonderfully.
What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar or lemon juice can be used as alternatives, though apple cider vinegar adds a milder and slightly fruity acidity that complements the pineapple best.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly irresistible about this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe that makes it a standout at any meal. The blend of crispness, sweetness, tang, and creaminess is a celebration of flavors that you’ll want to make again and again. Go on, try it out and bring a taste of the islands straight to your table—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a refreshing and vibrant side dish featuring a colorful mix of shredded green and red cabbage, crisp carrots, and sweet pineapple chunks. Tossed in a creamy and tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey, this coleslaw offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light accompaniment to your meals, it is easy to prepare and sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruit
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), drained
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables and Fruit: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, pineapple chunks, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro to create a colorful and flavorful base for your coleslaw.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined, providing a creamy and tangy dressing.
- Mix Dressing with Vegetables: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and fruit mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the ingredients to chill, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
- Serve: Serve the Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw chilled as a refreshing side dish, perfect to accompany a variety of meals.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh pineapple chunks, but canned pineapple drained well works well too.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- This coleslaw can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- To make it vegan, substitute mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
- Serve chilled for a crisp, refreshing texture and flavor.
