The first refreshing bite of Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw takes me right to a sun-soaked beach, where the waves gently lap at my feet. This vibrant salad is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, combining the sweetness of juicy pineapple and the creaminess of Greek yogurt—yes, that means no mayo here! Perfect for those summer picnics or gatherings, it’s not only quick to whip up but also a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Trust me, this Hawaiian coleslaw will turn heads and disappear from the table quicker than you can say “aloha!” Are you ready to bring a taste of paradise to your kitchen?

Why is Hawaiian Coleslaw a Must-Try?

Tropical Twist: This coleslaw takes classic ingredients and transforms them into a vibrant, flavorful dish that stands out at any gathering.

No Mayo Needed: The creamy Greek yogurt gives you all the richness without the heaviness of traditional mayo, making it a lighter choice for warm days.

Quick Prep: With just a few simple steps, you can have a fresh, delicious salad ready in no time—perfect for busy summer afternoons or impromptu barbecues!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or a potluck, this Hawaiian coleslaw is bound to be a favorite; it combines sweetness, crunch, and a delightful zing that guests will love!

Versatile Pairing: Complement it with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or pulled pork for an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Want more tropical flair? Check out our Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa for a perfect meal idea!

Hawaiian Coleslaw Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Plain Greek Yogurt – Provides creaminess and tanginess; substitute with sour cream for a richer flavor.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a sharp, tangy kick; can be replaced with yellow mustard for a milder taste.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Contributes acidity and brightness; white vinegar can be swapped in if needed.
• Pineapple Juice – Offers natural sweetness; reserved from draining canned pineapple, or use fresh juice for more vibrancy.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to use sea salt instead.
• Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat; white pepper works well as a good substitution.

For the Salad
• Coleslaw Mix – The base of the salad providing a crunchy texture; opt for shredded green cabbage or a mix of red and green cabbage (4-5 cups) if unavailable.
• Pineapple Tidbits – Sweet and juicy elements that lighten up the salad; fresh pineapple can replace canned for a fresher taste.
• Macadamia Nuts – Adds crunch and richness; substitute with chopped walnuts or pecans if nut-free.

Embrace the tropical vibe with this Hawaiian coleslaw that’s both refreshing and guilt-free!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup of reserved pineapple juice from the canned pineapple. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well blended, ensuring a creamy consistency. This delicious dressing will form the flavorful base of your Hawaiian coleslaw.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together 4-5 cups of coleslaw mix, 1 cup of pineapple tidbits, and 1/2 cup of roughly chopped macadamia nuts. Gently mix the ingredients with a spoon or your hands until everything is evenly distributed. The crunchiness of the coleslaw mix combined with the juicy pineapple and nutty macadamia nuts creates a vibrant and colorful salad that’s a feast for the eyes!

Step 3: Combine the Dressing and Salad
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture, and using tongs or a large spoon, carefully fold the dressing into the salad. Go slowly to ensure that every piece of coleslaw is coated with the creamy dressing while maintaining the crunchiness. You’ll notice the vibrant colors coming together beautifully, creating your perfect Hawaiian coleslaw.

Step 4: Serve or Chill
You can serve the Hawaiian coleslaw immediately for the freshest taste, or you may choose to refrigerate it for about 30 minutes if you prefer a chilled salad. If you opt to chill, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste and making it even more delightful for your summer gatherings.

Step 5: Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the coleslaw may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. When you’re ready to serve again, give it a gentle stir to redistribute the flavors, and enjoy another taste of tropical goodness!

Hawaiian Coleslaw Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own—let your taste buds guide you!

Creamy Alternative: Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream for an even richer flavor.
This swap will add a velvety touch to your slaw, perfect for those who love an indulgent dressing.
Milder Mustard: Use yellow mustard instead of Dijon for a smoother taste.
This mild switch can appeal to those looking for a gentler flavor profile while still enjoying a tangy kick.
Zesty Kick: Amp up the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
A burst of citrus brings a refreshing twist that brightens the entire dish, making it even more vibrant.
Nut-Free Option: Swap macadamia nuts with crunchy sunflower seeds for a nut-free delight.
This keeps the texture delightful while accommodating those with nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Coconut Crunch: Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
This adds not only flavor but also a bit of tropical sweetness that’s simply irresistible in your coleslaw.
Spicy Heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
This twist turns your slaw into a heat-packed surprise that’s sure to get folks talking at your next barbecue.
Colorful Boost: Add shredded carrots and red cabbage for extra color and nutrition.
This little mix-in adds a vibrant visual appeal, not to mention it’ll pack in even more crunch!
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with other fruits like mango or kiwi to swap with pineapple.
This can transform your coleslaw into a fruity fiesta; just take care to balance the sweetness and tang.

Elevate your coleslaw game by trying these variations, and don’t forget to check out our Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa for a pairing that perfectly complements this refreshing dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can chop the coleslaw mix and pineapple tidbits a day ahead; store them separately to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the salad ingredients with the dressing, and you’ll have a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that reveals all its tropical goodness with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Coleslaw

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The coleslaw will continue to soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Hawaiian coleslaw, as the vegetables can become mushy once thawed. For the best texture, prepare just what you need!

Serving Tips: If you have leftovers, give the coleslaw a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the flavors. Enjoy your tropical creation once more!

Dressing Storage: Store any extra dressing separately in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you can whip up a fresh batch of Hawaiian coleslaw on demand.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Coleslaw

Serve Fresh: To keep your Hawaiian coleslaw crunchy, try to serve it soon after mixing. If prepping in advance, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.
Taste Test: Before mixing the dressing into the salad, taste it. Adjust the sweetness and acidity by adding more pineapple juice or vinegar according to your preference.
Nut Substitutions: If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the macadamia nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds, maintaining the delightful crunch.
Creaminess Level: For a creamier texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt. Remember, it will add a richer flavor, making your Hawaiian coleslaw even more irresistible.
Add More Color: Mix in shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for an extra pop of color and flavor, while also increasing the health benefits of your dish.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Looking to complete your tropical meal experience? The refreshing crunch of this coleslaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to paradise.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated grilled chicken adds a savory depth that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the coleslaw. This combo is an instant hit for barbecues!
Fish Tacos: The light and flaky texture of fish tacos complements the creamy slaw, creating a harmonious balance between flavors. Don’t forget a dash of lime for that zest!
Pulled Pork: The richness of pulled pork is perfectly countered by the tangy freshness of Hawaiian coleslaw, making every bite a delightful experience.
Quinoa Salad: A nutrient-packed quinoa salad not only adds health benefits but also brings earthy flavors that enhance the tropical vibe of the coleslaw.
Tropical Fruit Salad: The bright, juicy flavors of a fruit salad bursting with pineapple, mango, and kiwi will echo the sweet notes in your coleslaw, making it feel like a feast!
Mango Smoothie: This refreshing drink, blending sweet mango and coconut milk, pairs beautifully with the slaw for an all-around tropical experience at meals.
Lemonade: A zesty, chilled lemonade offers a refreshing contrast to the salad’s sweetness, making it an ideal drink for warm summer days spent outdoors.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Finish off your meal with a slice of this classic dessert! The transition from savory to sweet will leave your guests craving more.

Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pineapple for Hawaiian coleslaw?
Absolutely! When choosing a ripe pineapple, look for a sweet aroma emanating from the base, a golden color, and slight softness when gently pressed. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or bruising, as these can indicate overripeness. For the freshest flavor in your coleslaw, opt for pineapples that feel heavy for their size.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian pineapple coleslaw?
To maintain its crispness, store your Hawaiian coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be mindful that the salad will soften over time, so it’s best to consume it as fresh as possible. If you’ve made the dressing separately, that can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy freshly coated coleslaw later!

Can I freeze Hawaiian coleslaw?
Very! However, freezing is not recommended for Hawaiian coleslaw, as the delicate texture of the vegetables can become mushy once thawed. Instead, prepare only what you plan to eat. If you have extra coleslaw mix, you could freeze the vegetables, but it may lose its crunch. Thus, preparing fresh is always the best route to enjoy that tropical goodness.

What if my coleslaw dressing is too tangy?
If you find that your coleslaw dressing is too tangy, don’t worry! Start by adding a little extra pineapple juice or a touch of sugar to balance the acidity. Mix well and taste again. You can adjust further until it reaches your desired flavor. Remember, it’s all about customizing it to your liking!

Is Hawaiian coleslaw suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, omitting the macadamia nuts is a safe choice. For a nice texture without nuts, you might consider replacing them with sunflower seeds or simply enjoying it without any crunchy additions. The coleslaw will still be delicious and packed with flavor!

Can I use different types of vinegar in the dressing?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute the apple cider vinegar with white vinegar if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that different vinegars can impart varied flavor profiles; apple cider vinegar lends a mild sweetness while white vinegar is sharper. Taste the dressing as you mix to ensure it has the perfect balance for your Hawaiian coleslaw!