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 as a refreshing side to any meal. With Greek yogurt as a base, it offers a creamy texture without the heaviness of mayo, making it a delightful alternative that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal option for last-minute gatherings.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of pineapple and crunchy cabbage creates a light, tropical taste that stands out at any meal.
• Healthy Twist: Made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, this recipe is lower in calories while still being rich and creamy.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues, this coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats and seafood.
• Nutty Crunch: The addition of macadamia nuts adds a unique texture and flavor that elevates this coleslaw to something special.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your prep process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure perfect flavor balance in your coleslaw.
• Whisk or spoon: A whisk helps to blend the dressing smoothly, while a spoon is great for tossing the slaw ingredients together.

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Ingredients

To create your delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, you’ll need 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 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

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

Step 2: Mix the Slaw Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage with the pineapple tidbits and macadamia nuts.

Step 3: Combine Dressing with Slaw

1. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture.
2. Stir gently to distribute the dressing evenly throughout.

Step 4: Serve or Store

1. Serve immediately for best crunchiness.
2. If not serving right away, store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Note that it will soften slightly over time but will still taste great!

Enjoy your refreshing Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw as an exciting addition to your meals!

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing dish that can enhance any meal. Its sweet and savory flavors make it versatile, perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken for a delicious contrast of flavors.
• Serve alongside turkey burgers to add a tropical twist to your meal.

In Tacos

• Use as a topping for fish tacos for a refreshing crunch.
• Add it to pulled chicken or beef tacos for an extra layer of flavor.

With Barbecue

• Serve with smoked brisket to balance the richness of the meat.
• Enjoy alongside barbecue chicken for a delightful summer feast.

As a Salad Base

• Use Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw as a base for a tropical salad bowl by adding quinoa or rice.
• Top with grilled shrimp for an elevated dish that’s perfect for entertaining.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

To ensure your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is the best it can be, follow these tips. They will help you achieve the right taste and texture.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Use fresh cabbage and ripe pineapple tidbits for the best flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your dressing before mixing. Add more pineapple juice if you prefer a sweeter coleslaw.
• Chill before serving: Letting the coleslaw rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customize textures: Consider adding shredded carrots or bell peppers for more color and crunch.
• Experiment with nuts: If macadamia nuts aren’t available, try using toasted almonds or pecans for variation.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with various dishes, making it an ideal companion on your dinner table. Here are some excellent side dishes to serve alongside it:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy pieces marinated in herbs and spices complement the coleslaw perfectly.
2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet, buttery corn adds another layer of summer enjoyment to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light and nutritious option that brings additional texture and flavor contrasts.
4. Vegetable Fried Rice – Flavorful rice packed with vegetables creates a hearty complement to the refreshing coleslaw.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries provide a sweet contrast that pairs well with the tangy slaw.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a wholesome side dish that balances out flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold Ingredients: Using low-quality or old ingredients can result in a bland taste. Always use fresh cabbage, ripe pineapple, and quality nuts for the best flavor.
• Bold Measuring Accurately: Not measuring ingredients accurately can change the texture and taste of your coleslaw. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Bold Skipping the Refrigeration: Serving immediately after preparation might not allow flavors to meld. For a better flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing too vigorously can break down the cabbage and make it mushy. Toss gently to maintain crunchiness.
• Bold Ignoring Personal Taste: Not adjusting seasoning to personal preference can lead to a dish that’s too salty or bland. Taste your dressing before adding it to the slaw and adjust accordingly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal crunchiness.

Freezing Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the cabbage.
• If you choose to freeze, use an airtight freezer-safe container and consume within a month for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread coleslaw on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes. This method is not typical as coleslaw is best served cold.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet until warmed through; add a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.

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

You can use any plant-based yogurt or sour cream alternative if you want a dairy-free version while still maintaining creaminess.

How do I customize my Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Feel free to add additional fruits like mango or papaya or include spices such as chili powder for an extra kick!

Can I make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day in advance for more developed flavors. Just remember to store it properly in the fridge until serving.

Is Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a delightful twist on classic coleslaw that brings tropical flavors to your table. Its creamy texture without mayo makes it light yet satisfying. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or nuts for added flair!