Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe

Say hello to your new favorite summer side: Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw! This vibrant, crunchy slaw is bursting with sweet, tangy, and tropical flavors that instantly transport you to a sun-drenched luau, even if you’re enjoying it in your backyard. The combination of crisp cabbage, juicy pineapple, and a creamy-yet-lively dressing is simply irresistible—perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a fresh twist on your weeknight dinners. It’s quick to pull together, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to earn rave reviews from everyone at the table. Let’s get tossed into the magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw lies in just how simple and fresh the ingredients are. Each one plays a vital role, adding impressive crunch, color, and that unforgettable tropical flair. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this irresistible dish come to life.

• Shredded green cabbage: The base of every classic slaw, it brings crunch and a beautiful, refreshing bite.
• Shredded red cabbage: Adds a pop of color and a slightly peppery contrast to the green cabbage.
• Shredded carrots: Bright orange ribbons of sweetness and even more crunch.
• Pineapple chunks: The star ingredient! Pineapple infuses the slaw with juicy sweetness and a fun island vibe.
• Chopped green onions: For a subtle onion zing that cuts through the creaminess.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Lends a burst of herby fragrance and a distinctly Hawaiian touch. Skip it if you’re not a cilantro fan.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of the dressing—use full fat for richness, or lighten up with Greek yogurt.
• Pineapple juice: Brightens up the dressing and echoes the tropical notes in every bite.
• Apple cider vinegar: Gives just the right amount of tang to balance the sweetness.
• Honey or maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth to round out the flavors.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential seasoning to bring the whole slaw together.

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Pineapple

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots. They set the stage for all the fresh, crunchy goodness you’ll get in every bite. Add your pineapple chunks—make sure they’re drained if canned, or give fresh pineapple a quick chop into bite-sized pieces. Top it all off with the chopped green onions and (if you like) a big handful of cilantro for that signature flavor twist.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper. Take a moment to really whisk until the dressing is completely smooth and glossy—this helps ensure every bite of your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is perfectly coated.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Pour the creamy dressing all over the slaw mixture and gently toss with tongs or a big spoon. Be patient here—a thorough toss is the secret to even flavor in Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw! Make sure the dressing reaches every corner, so every forkful is balanced and delicious.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Pop the bowl of coleslaw into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This quick pause lets the flavors mingle, the veggies stay ultra-crisp, and the whole slaw taste more cohesive. Just before serving, give it another quick toss, then get ready to wow your guests.

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Garnishes

Don’t hold back on that final flourish! Right before serving, sprinkle extra green onions or fresh cilantro over the top for a beautiful, fresh look and a pop of color. A few extra pineapple chunks or a little black pepper on top can make your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw totally picture-perfect.

Side Dishes

This slaw shines next to smoky mains—think BBQ chicken, juicy pulled pork sandwiches, or sticky ribs. It’s also a lifesaver at any potluck or picnic, playing nicely with burgers, fish tacos, or even as part of a big tropical platter. Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is the ultimate palate refresher for anything grilled or roasted.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to really turn heads? Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a festive, beachy presentation. Or, try piling it high on sliders or inside wraps for a sweet, crunchy upgrade. Individual mason jars filled with slaw also make a fun, no-mess picnic treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with a little extra Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw (lucky you), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays crisp and colorful for up to 3 days, though you may want to give it a quick toss before enjoying again.

Freezing

Coleslaw doesn’t freeze particularly well because the fresh veggies lose their texture after thawing. Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is definitely best enjoyed freshly made or straight from the fridge, so make only as much as you think you’ll need for the next few days.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this slaw is meant to be served cold! If it has been refrigerated, simply give it a quick stir and let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving, so the flavors pop and the texture is spot-on.

FAQs

Can I make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw actually tastes even better after a short chill in the fridge. Make it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and toss again right before serving for best results.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you want to lighten things up, try swapping half the mayo for Greek yogurt or go fully dairy-free with vegan mayo. The creamy texture and flavor will still shine through in your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.

Is fresh pineapple better than canned?

Both work beautifully. Fresh pineapple has a bit more tang and texture, but canned pineapple (drained well) is sweet and convenient, especially when pineapple isn’t in season. Either will make your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw a winner.

What proteins pair best with this coleslaw?

It’s a dream alongside grilled shrimp, barbecue chicken, pulled pork, or even in fish tacos. The sweet-tart flavors of Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw are the perfect match for rich or smoky proteins.

How do I keep the coleslaw from getting soggy?

To keep your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw crisp, don’t overdress it and serve it within a day or two. If you’re prepping extra early, store veggies and dressing separately, then mix them together before chilling and serving.

Final Thoughts

I just can’t wait for you to try this irresistible Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw! It’s a fantastically fresh, crowd-pleasing side that brings sunshine to every meal. Give it a go, and you’ll see why it’s become an absolute staple for summer spreads and casual family dinners alike.

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