Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Put a sweet and savory tropical twist on the classic picnic side dish with this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw. This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or potlucks. With its refreshing flavors and crunchy texture, it stands out among traditional coleslaw recipes. Made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, it’s a lighter option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This coleslaw takes just 10 minutes to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious side dish quickly.
• No Mayo Required: With Greek yogurt as the base, this recipe avoids mayonnaise while still being creamy and flavorful.
• Tropical Flavors: The combination of pineapple juice and tidbits infuses a sweet taste that perfectly complements savory dishes.
• Nutty Crunch: Coarsely chopped macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch and rich flavor to every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners, this coleslaw pairs beautifully with various main courses.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Serving spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth dressing by thoroughly mixing all components.
• Serving spoon: Makes it easy to serve and portion the coleslaw for guests.

Ingredients

To make this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dressing

• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from draining the can of pineapple tidbits)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coleslaw Mixture

• One 10-15 oz. bag coleslaw mix (or about 4-5 cups shredded cabbage, just green or a mix of red and green cabbage)
• 1 cup pineapple tidbits (from a can, drained)
• 1/2 cup macadamia nuts (coarsely chopped)

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Combine the Coleslaw Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage, pineapple tidbits, and coarsely chopped macadamia nuts until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix in the Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the slaw mixture. Stir gently to ensure that everything is coated evenly with the dressing.

Step 4: Serve or Store

You can serve your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw immediately or store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it. It stays fresh for a couple of days but may become softer over time.

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Its sweet and tangy flavors make it an excellent addition to any summer gathering or picnic.

As a Standalone Salad

• Enjoy it chilled as a light lunch option, packed with nutrients and flavor.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a delightful contrast of flavors.

In Tacos

• Use it as a topping for fish or chicken tacos to add a crunchy, tropical flair.

On Sandwiches

• Layer it on sandwiches or wraps for added texture and sweetness.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with your favorite barbecue dishes, enhancing the overall meal experience.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

To make your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw truly shine, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and ripe pineapple will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to add more pineapple juice if you prefer a sweeter coleslaw.
• Experiment with nuts: While macadamia nuts are great, try adding walnuts or almonds for different textures.
• Add more veggies: For extra crunch, consider adding shredded carrots or bell peppers to the mix.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can complement various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   A summertime favorite, grilled corn adds a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with coleslaw.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed option that brings in additional nutrients and a nutty taste.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the tropical notes of the coleslaw.

4. Vegetable Skewers
   Colorful skewers featuring bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes provide vibrant presentation and taste.

5. Potato Wedges
   Baked or fried, crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy coleslaw.

6. Rice Pilaf
   A fluffy rice dish seasoned with herbs enhances your meal while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring the dressing consistency: A watery dressing can ruin your coleslaw. Ensure you mix the Greek yogurt and other ingredients well until smooth before adding it to the slaw.

• Skipping the chilling time: For best flavor, let your coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Using expired ingredients: Check expiration dates on your yogurt and other ingredients. Fresh ingredients yield better taste and texture in your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.

• Not adjusting sweetness levels: Depending on your pineapple’s sweetness, you may need to adjust the amount of pineapple juice in your dressing. Taste as you go!

• Overmixing the slaw: Gently toss the coleslaw with the dressing to avoid breaking down the cabbage too much. You want a crunchy texture!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it chilled until ready to serve for optimal crunchiness.

Freezing Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• It’s not recommended to freeze coleslaw due to its texture after thawing.
• If necessary, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month.
• Allow to thaw in the refrigerator before consuming, but expect a softer texture.

Reheating Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the slaw on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion of coleslaw in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a tropical twist on traditional coleslaw made with Greek yogurt, pineapple tidbits, and crunchy macadamia nuts.

Can I customize my Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Absolutely! You can add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra color and crunch. Experiment with different nuts or fruits based on your preference!

How long does this coleslaw last?

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw will last about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is there a vegan version of Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with non-dairy yogurt alternatives and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw brings a refreshing tropical flair to any meal. Its creamy texture without mayo makes it light yet satisfying. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or nuts for added flavor. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!