This Easy Hawaiian Coleslaw is a bright and crunchy dish that mixes fresh cabbage, colorful carrots, and sweet pineapple. It’s a tasty twist on your regular coleslaw!
I love how the pineapple adds a fun, fruity flavor that makes this slaw so refreshing. It’s perfect for summer picnics or barbecues. Plus, it’s super quick to make! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here! It’s crunchy and holds up well in the dressing. If you want a bit of color, you can mix in some red cabbage for a beautiful presentation!
Carrots: Shredded carrots add a lovely sweetness and color. You could also use pre-shredded coleslaw mix that often comes with carrots included for convenience.
Pineapple: I recommend using canned crushed pineapple. It’s sweet and juicy, perfect for this slaw! If you’re avoiding canned fruits, fresh pineapple works too; just chop it finely, but you might want to add a bit of sugar to get that sweetness.
Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It gives a creamy texture and adds some protein!
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw is Well Mixed?
Mixing everything just right can be tricky! Here’s how to make sure your coleslaw is evenly coated and delicious:
- Start by combining the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl to allow ample room for mixing.
- When you add the pineapple, take care to mix gently to avoid squishing it.
- For the dressing, whisk well until all the ingredients are smooth—this ensures it blends nicely with the veggies.
- Finally, toss everything together using large spoonfuls to coat without crushing the vegetables. A gentle hand works best!
After mixing, let the coleslaw sit in the fridge. This really helps the flavors marry together and makes for a tastier dish!
Easy Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe With Sweet Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup canned crushed pineapple, drained
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Hawaiian Coleslaw takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up quickly and let it chill while you prepare the rest of your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage and shredded carrots. Make sure to mix them well so they are evenly distributed. This will create a colorful base for your slaw!
2. Add the Sweet Pineapple:
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. Take your time mixing to ensure the pineapple is evenly spread throughout the cabbage and carrots without squashing it. The sweetness from the pineapple will add a delicious twist!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing has the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, enhancing the slaw’s flavors!
4. Combine Dressing and Slaw:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together gently to make sure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. The combination of textures and flavors will be delightful!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your coleslaw and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, give it a good stir and taste to see if you’d like to add any extra salt or pepper. Serve it chilled and enjoy the refreshing taste!
This creamy coleslaw features a sweet tropical note from the pineapple, balanced with a tangy, honey-mayo dressing for a refreshing Hawaiian-inspired side dish. Perfect for any summer gathering or backyard barbecue!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a great texture and sweetness to the coleslaw. Just make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice to prevent the slaw from being watery.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Coleslaw?
Leftover coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days for optimal freshness and crunch!
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the coleslaw a day in advance and refrigerate it. This will give the flavors time to meld, just remember to give it a good stir before serving. If it looks a little watery, you can drain some liquid before serving.
What Can I Serve with Hawaiian Coleslaw?
This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches. It adds a refreshing crunch to any meal, especially during summer barbecues!
