Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Put a sweet and savory tropical twist on the classic picnic side dish with this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw. Made with Greek yogurt, this easy summer salad has no mayo, making it a refreshing option for any gathering. This unique coleslaw is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish at family dinners. The combination of pineapple and crunchy veggies creates a delightful experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• No Mayo: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise offers a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Tropical Flavor: The addition of pineapple juice and tidbits gives this coleslaw a refreshing twist that stands out.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for barbecues, potlucks, or even as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
• Nutty Crunch: Macadamia nuts add an unexpected crunch that enhances the overall texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. These essential tools will help you create the perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk: Helps in blending the dressing smoothly to achieve the right consistency.
• Large serving bowl: Ideal for mixing the slaw ingredients without crowding.

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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, pineapple tidbits, and chopped macadamia nuts until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Everything

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

Step 4: Serve or Store

Serve immediately for maximum crunch or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy within a couple of days; note that it may soften over time but will still taste delicious!

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a delightful and refreshing side dish that complements many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this vibrant salad.

As a Side for Grilled Meats

• Grilled Chicken – The sweet and tangy flavors enhance the smoky taste of grilled chicken.
• Beef Burgers – Pile it on top of a juicy beef burger for an added crunch and tropical twist.
• Turkey Skewers – Serve alongside turkey skewers for a balanced and flavorful meal.

At Picnics and BBQs

• Buffet Style – Set it out in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves at picnics or BBQ gatherings.
• Wraps – Use as a filling in wraps with grilled chicken or vegetables for a refreshing lunch option.
• Tortilla Chips – Serve with tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy appetizer.

On Tacos

• Fish Tacos – Top off fish tacos with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw for an incredible flavor combination.
• Pulled Chicken Tacos – Use it as a topping on pulled chicken tacos for extra texture and sweetness.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

To make your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw even better, consider these simple tips.

• Bold Flavor Boost – Add more pineapple juice or zest from fresh lime for an even fruitier taste.
• Chill Thoroughly – Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Add Crunch – Include additional nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture and richness.
• Mix Fresh Ingredients – Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to elevate the dish’s freshness.
• Adjust Sweetness – Taste and adjust sweetness by adding honey or agave syrup if desired.
• Keep It Crisp – To maintain the crunch, mix the dressing just before serving rather than letting it sit too long.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can create a wonderful meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables – Charred seasonal vegetables add color and flavor to your plate.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs brings protein and fiber to complement your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn enhances the tropical vibe while providing a classic summer side.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the coleslaw’s flavor.
5. Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice pilaf adds texture and balances the freshness of the coleslaw.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans offer a hearty addition to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using regular yogurt – Opt for plain Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a thicker and creamier texture.
• Skipping the seasoning – Don’t forget to add salt and pepper; they enhance the flavor of the coleslaw significantly.
• Not chilling before serving – Allow your coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this helps meld the flavors together.
• Overmixing – Be gentle when mixing the dressing with the slaw; overmixing can make it mushy, losing that desirable crunch.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness – Use fresh ingredients, especially cabbage and pineapple, for a vibrant taste and texture in your coleslaw.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in cabbage and dressing.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for best results.

Reheating Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered briefly until just warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds), stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

You can use plain Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. It adds creaminess without the heaviness of mayo.

How long does Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like mango or different nuts such as almonds for added flavor and crunch.

Is there a vegan version of Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth.

What dishes pair well with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

This coleslaw complements grilled meats, fish tacos, or even as a side dish at summer barbecues.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a delightful twist on a classic dish. Its sweet and tangy flavors make it a perfect side for any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts to suit your taste!