Warm rays of sunshine streamed into my kitchen, transporting me to a tropical paradise as I prepared a delightful twist on an old classic—Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw. This vibrant salad combines crunchy cabbage with juicy pineapple, creating a refreshing harmony that’s simply perfect for any summer gathering. The best part? I’ve ditched the mayonnaise in favor of creamy Greek yogurt, turning this dish into a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. With its easy preparation and guilt-free ingredients, this Hawaiian coleslaw is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to elevate your BBQ spread. Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a summer luau?

Why is Hawaiian Coleslaw a Must-Try?

Flavorful Twist: This Hawaiian Coleslaw dazzles with the sweet, tangy burst of pineapple paired with crunchy cabbage, creating a vibrant addition to any meal.

Healthy Commitment: By swapping out mayo for Greek yogurt, this recipe maintains creaminess while significantly cutting down on calories and fat, making it a guilt-free delight.

Simple Steps: You’ll appreciate the quick and easy preparation, which requires no advanced culinary skills. In just a few minutes, you can whip up a fantastic salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Versatile Pairing: This coleslaw isn’t just a side dish; it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, enhancing your BBQ or picnic spread. For a complete meal, serve alongside a zesty Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw that compliments this tropical delight!

Crowd-Pleaser: With its fresh ingredients and cheerful presentation, this coleslaw is bound to impress guests and family alike, making it suitable for any occasion.

Hawaiian Coleslaw Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Plain Greek Yogurt – Provides creaminess while reducing fat content; you can substitute with regular yogurt or mayo for a different taste.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds tang and depth of flavor; yellow mustard works well if preferred.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers a sharp acidity to balance sweetness; lemon juice can be used instead.
• Pineapple Juice – Enhances the sweetness of the slaw; reserve juice from canned pineapple or use fresh if available.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor balance; sea salt or table salt are good substitutions.
• Black Pepper – Adds mild spice to the dressing; freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.

For the Salad
• Coleslaw Mix or Shredded Cabbage – Serves as the crunchy base; any cabbage mix or freshly shredded green or red cabbage works.
• Pineapple Tidbits – Provides sweet bursts in every bite; diced fresh pineapple can be used if preferred.
• Macadamia Nuts – Adds crunch and richness; swap with almonds or cashews if needed.

With these ingredients, you can craft a delicious Hawaiian coleslaw that will surely impress at your next summer gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup of fresh pineapple juice. Season the mixture with a pinch of kosher salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 4 cups of coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage along with 1 cup of pineapple tidbits and 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts. Toss them together gently using salad tongs or a wooden spoon, until all the ingredients are well combined and the vibrant colors shine through.

Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture. Use salad tongs to gently fold the dressing into the salad, ensuring that every inch of the crunchy cabbage and sweet pineapple bites is evenly coated. This should take about 2 minutes, and the final mixture should look beautifully creamy.

Step 4: Serve or Chill
For an immediate serving, transfer the Hawaiian coleslaw to a large serving bowl, and enjoy its fresh, vibrant flavors. Alternatively, for best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. The coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?

Enhance your summer meals with a vibrant, refreshing spread that sings of tropical delight and sunshine.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken pair perfectly with the sweet tanginess of the coleslaw, bringing a delightful contrast to your plate.
Fish Tacos: Try serving alongside fish tacos! The fresh crunch of coleslaw freshens up every bite, offering a fantastic textural contrast.
BBQ Ribs: The sweet and creamy Hawaiian coleslaw chills the spice and richness of BBQ ribs, making it a brilliant sidekick for your summer cookouts.
Quinoa Salad: This light, nutritious salad adds complexity, mixing flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully with the refreshing coleslaw.
Pineapple Mango Salsa: For a fun tropical feast, top your grilled fish or chicken with a spoonful of pineapple mango salsa, enhancing the island vibes.
Sparkling Water: Keep your meal light and refreshing with a glass of sparkling water or a tropical lemonade that complements the salad’s fruity notes.
Brown Sugar Grilled Peaches: For dessert, serve grilled peaches drizzled with brown sugar. Their warm sweetness will round off the meal with a lovely finale.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Coleslaw

Airtight Container: Keep any leftover Hawaiian coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This ensures maximum freshness and keeps the flavors vibrant.

Avoid Excess Moisture: If storing coleslaw for later, be sure to drain the pineapple tidbits well before mixing. Excess moisture can lead to a soggier texture over time.

Reheating Not Recommended: While this salad is best enjoyed cold, if you have leftovers, eat them chilled rather than reheating, as the texture is intended to be crunchy and refreshing.

Freezer Caution: Freezing is not recommended for Hawaiian coleslaw because the vegetables and yogurt may separate and become watery upon thawing, affecting the overall texture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Coleslaw

Drain Well: Make sure to drain the pineapple tidbits thoroughly after opening the can. Excess moisture can make your coleslaw soggy and dilute the flavors.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter slaw, feel free to increase the amount of pineapple juice or add a drizzle of honey. Taste before serving to get it just right!
Add Crunch: For extra texture and color, consider adding shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers to the mix. This not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal to your Hawaiian coleslaw.
Flavor Blending: Allow the coleslaw to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
Nut Safety: If you’re serving guests with nut allergies, be sure to either omit the macadamia nuts or replace them with seeds, such as sunflower seeds, for a delightful crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep your shredded cabbage and pineapple tidbits separate to maintain their crunch. Just before serving, combine the dressing with the slaw mixture, toss in the macadamia nuts, and you’ll enjoy a fresh and vibrant salad, ready in minutes. This make-ahead strategy means less stress for busy weeknights and more time for you to relax!

Hawaiian Coleslaw Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Hawaiian Coleslaw recipe and make it your own!

Dairy-Free: Use a vegan yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a creamy yet dairy-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Add Crunch: Toss in sliced green onions for a fresh, zesty flavor and an extra layer of crunch.
Spicy Kick: For a fiery twist, incorporate jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate the heat!
Fruity Flair: Replace pineapple with mango or peach for a different fruity sweetness that’s still irresistibly tropical.
Nut-Free Option: Leave out macadamia nuts and substitute with sunflower seeds to maintain crunch without the allergens.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh chopped cilantro or mint to introduce a refreshing herbal note to the coleslaw.
Extra Veggies: Shred some carrots or bell peppers into the mix to enhance the color and nutritional value of your coleslaw.
Creamy Zest: Add a squeeze of lime juice for a bright burst of citrus flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

Whichever variation you choose, this recipe will surely be a hit! For added inspiration, try serving it alongside a zesty Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw for a delightful and diverse summer spread.

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe FAQs

What type of pineapple should I use?
Absolutely, you can use either canned pineapple tidbits or fresh pineapple for this recipe. If using canned, ensure you drain the tidbits well to get rid of excess moisture. For fresh pineapple, look for ripe fruit that is sweet and firm; avoid any with dark spots or a fermented smell.

How long can I store Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?
You can keep your Hawaiian coleslaw chilled in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, I recommend enjoying it fresh within the first day, as the cabbage can soften over time.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?
No, I wouldn’t recommend freezing this coleslaw. The dressing made with Greek yogurt and the fresh veggies may separate and lose their appealing crunch when thawed, making it less enjoyable.

What if I have a nut allergy?
If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the macadamia nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds. They’ll still provide a delightful crunch without the worry of allergens.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the coleslaw?
Very easily! Simply add more pineapple juice for more sweetness or mix in a drizzle of honey, tasting as you go. This way, you can find the perfect balance for your palate!

What vegetables can I add to this coleslaw?
You can enhance the texture and flavor by adding shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers. For an extra crunch, consider incorporating some radishes or even a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.