This Hawaiian coleslaw is a fun twist on the classic dish! With crunchy cabbage, sweet pineapple, and a tasty dressing, it’s super refreshing and perfect for summer gatherings.
Every bite feels like a mini-vacation to the islands! I love to serve it with grilled chicken or fish—it always adds a nice crunch and sweetness to the meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coleslaw Mix: Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix saves time. However, you can also shred your own cabbage and carrots. Green cabbage is classic, but you can mix in red cabbage for extra color.
Crushed Pineapple: This adds sweetness and moisture to the slaw. If fresh pineapple is available, you can chop that up as a refreshing alternative. Just be sure to drain any excess juice!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise is creamy, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version. It gives a tangy taste while still being rich.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or even lemon juice would work well!
How Can I Ensure My Coleslaw is Perfectly Crunchy?
To keep your coleslaw crunchy, focus on proper preparation and chilling. Here are some helpful steps:
- Use the coleslaw mix straight from the bag, but feel free to add fresh veggies like bell peppers or radishes for added crunch.
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple. Excess moisture can make the slaw soggy.
- Chill the coleslaw for at least an hour. This helps all the flavors come together while maintaining the crunchiness of the veggies.
- Give it a good toss before serving to pick up any dressing that has settled at the bottom.
With these tips, your Hawaiian coleslaw will be a hit at any gathering!
Easy Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe with Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After mixing everything together, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 10 minutes, but most of that time is just waiting for it to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by opening your bag of coleslaw mix. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with the drained crushed pineapple. Gently stir them together so the pineapple is evenly distributed throughout the cabbage and carrots.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Keep mixing until the dressing is nice and smooth—this will ensure that all the flavors blend well together.
3. Combine Dressing and Veggies:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage and pineapple mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to toss everything together thoroughly. You want to make sure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your coleslaw a taste. If you feel it needs a bit more salt or pepper, this is the time to adjust. Remember, everyone’s taste is different, so make it how you like!
5. Chill in the Refrigerator:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This step is important because it helps the flavors meld and keeps the coleslaw refreshing and crunchy.
6. Serve it Up:
After it’s been chilling, give your coleslaw one last toss to mix everything up before serving. Now it’s ready to enjoy! Pair it with your favorite grilled meats, tacos, or just have it on its own as a delicious snack.
Enjoy your sweet, crunchy Hawaiian coleslaw!
FAQ for Easy Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe with Pineapple
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces and drain excess juice. It’s a refreshing alternative to canned pineapple!
How Long Does Hawaiian Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
Your coleslaw will be best enjoyed within 3 days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. After a couple of days, the cabbage may start to soften.
Can I Make This Coleslaw Vegan?
Yes! For a vegan version, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a creamy plant-based yogurt. This will keep the creamy texture without the eggs and dairy.
How Can I Add More Flavor to My Coleslaw?
If you want to punch up the flavors, consider adding some finely chopped red onion, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also offer a nice twist!
