If you’re searching for a vibrant, refreshing side that steals the spotlight at summer barbecues and family dinners, this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is exactly what you need. Crisp cabbage, juicy pineapple, and a tangy-sweet dressing create a tropical twist on the classic slaw that’s basically sunshine in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that gets everyone asking, “Who brought this?” and brings smiles back for seconds. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats or tucking it into tacos, you’ll love how this coleslaw brightens every plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is how it transforms simple, fresh ingredients into a colorful and craveable dish. Every component adds something special—crunch, color, zest, or sweetness—making the whole greater than the sum of its parts!
- Green Cabbage: Provides a crispy, hearty base that soaks up all the delicious dressing without getting soggy.
- Red Cabbage: Adds a pop of color and a slightly earthier flavor, making each bite as gorgeous as it is tasty.
- Carrots: Offer natural sweetness and bring even more crunch to the slaw.
- Pineapple Tidbits (drained): The tropical star! Pineapple bursts with juicy sweetness and subtle tang that’s signature to this slaw.
- Red Onion: Adds sharpness and depth without overpowering the freshness; slice thinly for the best results.
- Green Onions: Bring gentle onion flavor and a pretty splash of green throughout the dish.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, smooth dressing that ties all the crunchy veggies together.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess that balances the sweetness and keeps the taste light and bright.
- Honey: Lends just the right touch of sweetness to complement the pineapple and tone down acidity.
- Dijon Mustard: Introduces a faint kick and rounds out the dressing with gentle spice.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t be shy, taste as you go for perfect balance!
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Step 1: Prep and Toss the Vegetables
Start by gathering all your sliced and shredded veggies. In a roomy bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, pineapple tidbits, red onion, and green onions. This combination is where the magic begins—crunchy, colorful veggies all mingling together with sweet pineapple bits for bursts of tropical flavor in every forkful.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing
In a separate, smaller bowl, add your mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until silky-smooth. This dressing is the secret sauce that brings the Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw from good to unforgettable—creamy, tangy, and sweet with just a hint of zest.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Pour that luscious dressing over your bowl of veggies and pineapple. Using tongs or two large spoons, toss everything together thoroughly. You want every strand of cabbage and carrot to get glossy with that flavorful dressing, so take your time and toss from the bottom up.
Step 4: Chill to Perfection
Transfer the coleslaw to the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours if you have time. This gives all those vibrant flavors a chance to meld and mingle, turning your vibrant salad into the ultimate Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw. The wait is always worth it!
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Garnishes
Before serving, a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or even a squeeze of lime can transform your coleslaw into something extra special. Not only do these simple touches make it pretty, but they also enhance those bright, tropical notes everyone loves.
Side Dishes
This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a total superstar alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork, fish tacos, or even veggie burgers. Its sweet-tangy crunch balances savory main dishes perfectly, making it ideal for anything off the grill or smoky barbecue flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the bowl! Serve the slaw piled high on sliders or sandwiches, stuff it into soft taco shells with grilled shrimp, or scoop individual servings into pineapple halves or colorful bell pepper cups for a whimsical tropical presentation at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, and the cabbage stays crisp, making it perfect for easy lunches or snack-time straight from the fridge.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, as the fresh veggies and pineapple will lose their crispness and turn watery once thawed. For the best texture, enjoy it fresh or chilled within a few days.
Reheating
This coleslaw is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. In fact, chilling brings out the full spectrum of flavors and ensures every bite stays vibrant and crunchy.
FAQs
Can I make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead gives the veggies time to soak up the dressing and allows all the flavors to come together beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best kind of pineapple to use?
Canned pineapple tidbits are super convenient and taste delicious in this recipe. If you have fresh pineapple, dice it into bite-sized pieces for an extra-bright, juicy flavor boost.
Is there a lighter version of this coleslaw?
If you want to lighten things up, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It keeps the slaw creamy while reducing calories and adding tangy protein goodness.
Can I add other vegetables or fruits?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, jalapeños for heat, or extra carrots work beautifully. Diced mango or a handful of shredded coconut add another layer of tropical flair to your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.
How long does it keep in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in a sealed container, Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw will stay fresh, crisp, and delicious for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bring a tropical breeze to your table, give this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw a try! It’s cheerful, crunchy, and totally addictive—truly the salad that brightens every cookout or family meal. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to summer side dish!
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and tropical twist on classic coleslaw, this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is bursting with flavor. Crunchy cabbage, sweet pineapple tidbits, and a creamy dressing make this a perfect side dish for any summer meal.
Ingredients
Coleslaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (drained)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Coleslaw: In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, pineapple tidbits, red onion, and green onions.
- Dressing: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise.
- Add chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a tropical twist.
- Great as a side for grilled chicken, pulled pork, or fish tacos.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *