Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing and tropical twist on a classic, Hawaiian Coleslaw is the dish you need to try. Sweet, tangy, and impossibly vibrant, this crunchy salad combines bright pineapple with crisp coleslaw veggies and a creamy, lively dressing. Whether you’re firing up the grill or simply want something to liven up a weeknight dinner, this is the side that brings sunshine to any table. With just a handful of ingredients, a bit of chopping (if you want), and almost zero fuss, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Hawaiian Coleslaw plays a key role—nothing fancy, just honest flavors that work together beautifully. The result is a pop of flavor, colorful presentation, and that irresistible crunch in every bite.

• Coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots): Ready to go in a bag for convenience, or shred your own for extra freshness—this creates the perfect crunchy base.
• Chopped cilantro: Adds a zingy, herbal lift that brightens up the whole salad.
• Crushed pineapple (drained): The tropical star—this brings natural sweetness and juiciness, plus little bursts of golden color.
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides tang and a gentle hit of acidity to balance the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy, rich, and mellow—this binds everything together and creates that classic, luscious coleslaw texture.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into harmony.

How to Make Hawaiian Coleslaw

Step 1: Make the Zesty Dressing

Start by whisking together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, and a good pinch of salt in a medium bowl. You’ll notice the dressing turns creamy and speckled with green—give it a little taste to make sure it’s balanced to your liking. This is the flavor foundation of your Hawaiian Coleslaw, so don’t be shy about adjusting the salt if you need to.

Step 2: Build the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl (or a roomy Tupperware container if you’re prepping ahead), combine the coleslaw mix with the drained crushed pineapple and a little extra fresh cilantro. The colors already look stunning together! This step is all about assembly—make sure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to keep your slaw crisp rather than watery.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw and pineapple mixture. Using tongs or two large forks, toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats all the veggies. Add several generous turns of freshly ground black pepper on top, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper as you like. You want a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, creamy, and fresh.

Step 4: Let It Chill

While you can absolutely serve Hawaiian Coleslaw right away, it’s even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. This time lets the flavors meld and the slaw become extra refreshing. Just remember—coleslaw is best eaten on the same day for that peak crunch and brightness!

How to Serve Hawaiian Coleslaw

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of chopped extra cilantro on top just before serving to really make the colors pop. For added texture and visual flair, you can also toss on some thinly sliced green onions or a few toasted sesame seeds. Each garnish not only boosts the look of your dish but enhances the flavor too.

Side Dishes

Hawaiian Coleslaw is the perfect companion to grilled chicken, sticky ribs, or fish tacos. Pile it onto sliders or sandwiches, pair it with pulled pork, or serve alongside anything smoky and savory—the sweet-tart crunch cuts through richer main dishes beautifully every time.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Hawaiian Coleslaw to the next level by serving it in individual cabbage cups, or scoop it into hollowed pineapple halves for a festive, island-inspired presentation at parties or barbecues. You could even pack it into mason jars for a cheerful picnic or lunchbox upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any extras, keep your Hawaiian Coleslaw sealed in the fridge in an airtight container. The flavor continues to develop overnight, though the veggies may soften a bit—still delicious, but a little less crunchy!

Freezing

Coleslaw, especially the creamy and pineapple-filled Hawaiian Coleslaw, isn’t suitable for freezing. The texture of both the vegetables and dressing will change and become watery or mushy once thawed.

Reheating

This vibrant slaw is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature—reheating isn’t necessary and could impact its signature crisp texture. If it’s straight from the fridge and feels too chilly, just let it sit out for ten minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pineapple on hand, just finely chop it to mimic the texture of crushed pineapple. Make sure to drain any excess juice to avoid watering down the coleslaw.

Is there a way to make this Hawaiian Coleslaw dairy free?

Yes! Simply use a vegan or dairy-free mayonnaise alternative, and the rest of the ingredients will remain naturally dairy free. The creamy texture and flavor stay just as delightful.

How far ahead can I make Hawaiian Coleslaw?

You can make this coleslaw up to a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, though it’s at its absolute crunchiest within the first 4–6 hours after mixing.

What can I substitute for cilantro if I’m not a fan?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, try fresh parsley for a milder herbal touch or a bit of chopped green onion for a gentle kick that still works beautifully with the pineapple.

Can I add other mix-ins to Hawaiian Coleslaw?

Certainly! Try tossing in sliced red bell pepper, unsweetened coconut flakes, or even some chopped macadamia nuts for added color, flavor, and crunch that complement the tropical theme.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Coleslaw is bright, bold, and loaded with flavor—it’s the sunny salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t wait for a summer picnic or barbecue to give it a try; whip it up any time you need a burst of color and joy at your table. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe and share it with your loved ones!

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