Imagine a coleslaw that instantly transports you to a tropical escape with every crunchy, colorful forkful – that’s exactly what Spicy Pineapple Slaw is all about. This lively side is an absolute show-stopper: the tang of pineapple, the crispness of mixed cabbage, a confetti of bell pepper, and a punchy kick from jalapeño, all tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing that elevates any meal in seconds. Whether you’re jazzing up a taco night or need the perfect BBQ side, this is the slaw you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients to create a bowl of Spicy Pineapple Slaw. Each component brings its own special magic – from cool crunch to bright color and tropical sweetness, ensuring every bite feels like a celebration.
- Shredded green cabbage (3 cups): The classic slaw base, giving you that irresistible crunch every slaw needs.
- Shredded red cabbage (1 cup): Not only does this add more crunch, but its gorgeous color makes your slaw pop on the table.
- Fresh pineapple, finely chopped (1 cup): Juicy sweetness balances out the heat and adds a bright, sunny flavor.”
- Small red bell pepper, diced (1): For a mild, sweet accent and vibrant red flecks throughout your salad.
- Jalapeño, seeded and minced (1 small): This is where the “spicy” in Spicy Pineapple Slaw earns its name! Adjust the heat to your liking.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): Adds freshness and a subtle herby zing with every mouthful.
- Green onions, thinly sliced (2): Brings just the right savory note and a bit of extra bite.
- Mayonnaise (1/3 cup): The base of your creamy dressing, tying all the flavors together.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Infuses tang and keeps the slaw bright and perky.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): For a fresh, citrusy acidity that wakes up your taste buds.
- Honey (1 teaspoon): Gives a touch of sweetness to mellow the spice and tartness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances every element so the flavors sing.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a hint of warmth and depth.
- Cayenne pepper, optional (1/4 teaspoon): For those who really want to turn up the heat!
How to Make Spicy Pineapple Slaw
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Pineapple
Start by setting up a big mixing bowl – this is key to making sure all those beautiful ingredients have plenty of room. Shred your green and red cabbage, then finely chop the pineapple so it blends evenly throughout the slaw. Dice the red bell pepper, mince your jalapeño (removing seeds for less heat), chop the cilantro, and slice the green onions. Getting all the chopping done first makes assembly a breeze!
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy, Tangy Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, fresh lime juice, honey, salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of cayenne if you want a fiery kick. Use a whisk and really blend it until the dressing looks smooth and glossy. The creamy texture will help coat every bit of cabbage and pineapple, bringing all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 3: Toss and Coat Everything Well
Pour your homemade dressing right over the bowl of veggies and pineapple. Now, grab your tongs or two big forks and toss everything together until all the crunchy goodness is beautifully coated. If you love seeing all those colors swirl together, this is the moment to revel in it!
Step 4: Chill for the Perfect Blend
Cover your Spicy Pineapple Slaw and pop it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. This little pause lets the flavors mingle and meld – the result is extra vibrant, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. Serve it chilled for ultimate refreshment.
How to Serve Spicy Pineapple Slaw
Garnishes
Garnishing Spicy Pineapple Slaw is a fun chance to add more color and flavor. Try scattering a little extra chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or even a few slivers of fresh red chili for those who like a touch more heat. A quick squeeze of lime over the top right before serving really wakes things up!
Side Dishes
This bright, zippy slaw is brilliant next to anything grilled, especially spicy chicken, shrimp, or smoky pulled pork. It absolutely shines on a taco bar, alongside rice and beans, or even as a lively partner to veggie burgers. Don’t be surprised if guests keep coming back for seconds!
Creative Ways to Present
Spicy Pineapple Slaw is a marvellous multitasker. Pile it high on sliders or BBQ sandwiches, spoon it right onto fish tacos, or serve it in little lettuce cups for party finger food. It also works beautifully as a topping for grain bowls or nestled beside crispy fried tofu for a delightful vegetarian meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Spicy Pineapple Slaw, simply transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will stay crisp and delicious for up to two days. The flavors will continue to deepen, so leftovers can be even better!
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal with Spicy Pineapple Slaw since the fresh vegetables and fruits can lose their crunch and become watery. For best results, make it fresh and enjoy it over a couple of days – it’s worth every bite!
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this slaw. In fact, it’s meant to be served cold! If you’ve just pulled it from the fridge, give it a quick toss and let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Spicy Pineapple Slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! Spicy Pineapple Slaw is actually better when made a few hours (or up to a day) in advance. Just keep it chilled in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
How can I make the slaw less spicy?
If you’re after all the flavor without the fiery punch, simply skip the cayenne pepper and use only half of the jalapeño (or leave it out entirely). The pineapple will still keep things lively and tropical.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Definitely! Just use a vegan-friendly mayonnaise and swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. The slaw remains creamy, flavorful, and dairy-free.
What protein dishes pair best with Spicy Pineapple Slaw?
It’s especially fantastic with grilled fish, jerk chicken, barbecue pork, or blackened shrimp. For vegetarian options, try pairing it with grilled halloumi, crispy tofu, or hearty grain bowls.
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple gives the slaw extra vibrancy, you can absolutely use well-drained canned pineapple in a pinch. Chop it finely and give it a quick pat with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
Once you invite Spicy Pineapple Slaw to your table, you’ll wonder how you ever served tacos, burgers, or barbecue without it. Bright, bold, and utterly refreshing, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and so easy to whip up ahead of any gathering. I hope you’ll give it a try and share the joy with your friends and family!
Print
Spicy Pineapple Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Spicy Pineapple Slaw is a refreshing and flavorful side dish with a kick of heat, perfect for adding a tropical twist to your meals. The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet pineapple, and spicy jalapeño makes this slaw a standout recipe.
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, pineapple, red bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, and green onions.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled as a side or on top of tacos, burgers, or grilled meats.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño and cayenne to control the spice level.
- This slaw can be made up to a day in advance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
