If you are craving a coleslaw twist that transports your taste buds to tropical shores, this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe is your new go-to. Bursting with vibrant colors and a beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, this coleslaw combines classic cabbage crunch with juicy pineapple and a zingy dressing that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or as a lively side to weeknight dinners, this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe brings a sunny, cheerful vibe to your plate you will love sharing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to making this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe so special is in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the crisp cabbage that provides satisfying texture to the juicy pineapple bits that add bursts of sweet tropical flavor. The creamy dressing perfectly ties everything together with just the right amount of tang and subtle sweetness.
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage: The classic crunchy base that holds this coleslaw together with fresh crispness.
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage: Adds beautiful color contrast and a slightly earthy flavor to deepen the dish.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Offers natural sweetness and vibrant orange tones for visual appeal.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), drained: Delivers juicy bursts of tropical sweetness that make this coleslaw uniquely Hawaiian.
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions: Brings mild onion aroma and a bit of zip that wakes up the palate.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds herbaceous brightness and a hint of citrusy flavor.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy, lush texture that coats the slaw perfectly.
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds tang and lightness, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Injects zesty acidity that elevates every bite.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Introduces natural sweetness to mellow and harmonize the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the vibrant ingredients.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Pineapple
Start by gathering and shredding the green and red cabbage along with carrots, then drain your pineapple to avoid extra liquid. Toss these vibrant ingredients together with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro in a large bowl. This colorful mix sets the stage for the delicious creamy dressing to come.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended. This dressing perfectly balances tanginess, sweetness, and creaminess to coat the slaw beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Dressing and Slaw
Pour your freshly made dressing over the vegetable and pineapple mix. Gently toss everything until each shred of cabbage and carrot is luxuriously coated. Be sure not to crush the pineapple chunks to keep their juicy bursts intact.
Step 4: Let Flavors Marry
Cover the bowl and refrigerate your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the flavors to mingle and intensify, making every bite a delightful experience.
Step 5: Serve Chilled and Enjoy
Take your chilled coleslaw out of the fridge and give it one last gentle toss before plating. Serve it as a refreshing side dish and enjoy a burst of tropical flavor and crisp textures in every mouthful.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of toasted macadamia nuts or extra fresh cilantro on top adds a lovely crunch and herbaceous finish that complements the creamy coleslaw beautifully. A few lime wedges can also brighten things up for guests to squeeze over their portions if they like.
Side Dishes
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe is a fantastic partner for grilled dishes like teriyaki chicken, fresh seafood, or even pulled pork sliders. Its sweet and tangy profile also pairs well with spicy foods, cutting through heat and providing refreshing relief.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, try serving the coleslaw in mini hollowed-out pineapples at your next gathering. You can also layer it in clear jars for picnic-style meals or use it as a topping on open-faced sandwiches and tacos to add a tropical crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this coleslaw because the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing tend to separate and become watery upon thawing, which affects the texture negatively.
Reheating
This coleslaw is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary or advised. Just give it a gentle stir if the dressing has settled before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain the canned pineapple chunks well to avoid excess moisture that could make the coleslaw watery. Fresh pineapple also works wonderfully if you prefer a brighter fruit flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily swap the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for vegan alternatives like plant-based mayo and dairy-free yogurt to keep it creamy and delicious while making it vegan-friendly.
How long should I chill the coleslaw before serving?
Chilling the Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you have more time, a couple of hours work even better.
Can I prep this coleslaw a day ahead?
Definitely. Preparing the coleslaw a day ahead gives the ingredients even more time to absorb the dressing flavors, making it tastier. Just give it a gentle toss before serving.
What can I substitute for cilantro if I don’t like it?
If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley or basil make great substitutes that offer their own unique aromatic notes without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing side that brings an exciting tropical flair to any meal. Its perfect blend of crisp, creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors makes it a fresh favorite to enjoy year-round. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it elevates your next gathering or family dinner with a splash of island sunshine.
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish combining shredded green and red cabbage, crisp carrots, and sweet pineapple chunks. Tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey, this coleslaw offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s an ideal accompaniment for summer barbecues, picnics, or any meal needing a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruits
- 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 the vegetables: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, pineapple chunks, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Mix the coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill: Place the coleslaw in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to develop a refreshing taste.
- Serve: Remove from the fridge and serve the coleslaw chilled as a delicious side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- For best results, drain canned pineapple well to prevent excess moisture in the coleslaw.
- This coleslaw can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored covered in the fridge to enhance the flavors.
- Adjust honey and vinegar quantities to your taste preference for sweetness or tanginess.
- Optional: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a mild spicy kick.
- This recipe serves well alongside grilled meats, seafood, or as a light, refreshing salad on its own.
