Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Put a sweet and savory tropical twist on the classic picnic side dish with this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw. This delightful salad made with Greek yogurt has no mayo, making it a refreshing alternative for warm weather gatherings. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or simply as a side dish for dinner, this coleslaw is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors and crunchy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this coleslaw comes together effortlessly.
• Healthy Alternative: Made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, it’s lighter without compromising on flavor.
• Tropical Flavor: The addition of pineapple and macadamia nuts brings a delightful sweetness and crunch that sets it apart from traditional coleslaws.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side for grilled meats or as a topping for tacos and sandwiches.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go option.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw smoothly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Large serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Ensures your dressing is smooth and well-blended.
• Measuring spoons: Provides accuracy in ingredient quantities for the best taste.
• Large serving bowl: Perfect for tossing and serving the coleslaw comfortably.

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 Slaw

• 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 mixed.

Step 2: Mix the Slaw Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Serve immediately for maximum crunch or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Note that while it will keep well for a couple of days, it may soften over time.

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a delightful salad that brings a tropical twist to your meals. It pairs well with various dishes, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

As a Side Dish

• This coleslaw complements grilled meats beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch alongside smoky flavors.

On Tacos

• Use Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw as a topping for fish or shrimp tacos for added sweetness and texture.

In Sandwiches

• Add a scoop of this coleslaw to pulled pork or chicken sandwiches for an exciting flavor combination.

As a Salad Base

• Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw atop mixed greens for a vibrant and colorful salad that’s perfect for summer.

At Picnics or BBQs

• This dish is ideal for outdoor gatherings, providing a light and refreshing option that everyone will enjoy.

With Asian Dishes

• Pair it with teriyaki chicken or stir-fried vegetables to create a balanced meal that highlights tropical flavors.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

To make your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw even more delicious, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and ripe pineapple enhance the overall flavor and texture of your coleslaw.

• Chill before serving: Allow the coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter slaw, add extra pineapple juice or even a touch of honey to the dressing.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for additional color and crunch.

• Choose crunchy nuts: Macadamia nuts provide great texture; however, you can also try almonds or cashews if you want different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

If you’re looking to round out your meal, here are some excellent side dishes that pair well with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned lightly allow the sweet flavors of the coleslaw to shine through.

2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection is an easy complement to this tropical salad, enhancing its summer vibe.

3. Baked Beans: The hearty nature of baked beans brings a savory balance against the sweetness of the coleslaw.

4. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad adds creaminess and comfort, making it an excellent companion alongside the coleslaw.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs offers protein and freshness that pairs well with the tropical notes of the slaw.

6. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers can lighten up the meal while emphasizing fruity elements present in Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.

7. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds texture and pairs nicely with grilled meats served alongside this refreshing slaw.

8. Caprese Salad: Tomato, basil, and mozzarella create a fresh Italian option that contrasts well with sweeter dishes like coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using too much dressing: Overdressing can make the coleslaw soggy. Stick to the recipe for a balanced flavor.
• Forgetting to drain the pineapple: If you don’t drain the pineapple well, excess moisture will affect the texture. Always use drained tidbits for best results.
• Neglecting to chop nuts finely: Large nut pieces can overpower the salad. Aim for coarsely chopped macadamia nuts for even distribution.
• Skipping the chill time: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving for enhanced taste.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old cabbage can spoil the dish. Opt for fresh coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage for a crunchy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Not recommended as it can change texture and taste.
• Fresh ingredients do not freeze well.

Reheating Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.

Can I make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, this coleslaw can be prepared a day in advance. It allows flavors to develop, but be aware that it may lose some crunchiness over time.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Feel free to add other fruits like mango or papaya, or mix in additional nuts and seeds for extra crunch!

Is Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Check labels if you’re using packaged products.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Its tropical flavors and creamy texture make it an ideal side dish that complements many meals. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite add-ins!