Creamy Hawaiian Coleslaw with Pineapple

This Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe puts a sweet and savory tropical twist on the classic picnic side dish. This recipe features pineapple and can be lightened-up with Greek yogurt, this easy summer salad is definitely not your average same old Hawaiian pineapple coleslaw recipe!

Serve with Pulled Pork or Chili Lime Kabobs and enjoy!!

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What makes Hawaiian coleslaw different from traditional coleslaw?

Hawaiian coleslaw differs from traditional coleslaw in a few key ways:

1. Tropical Ingredients: Hawaiian coleslaw often incorporates tropical fruits such as pineapple or mango, giving it a sweeter and more vibrant flavor compared to traditional coleslaw.
2. Asian Influence: Many Hawaiian coleslaw recipes feature Asian-inspired flavors and ingredients like sesame oil, rice vinegar, or soy sauce, adding a unique twist to the dish.
3. Use of Coconut: Some variations of Hawaiian coleslaw include shredded coconut, which adds a hint of sweetness and texture to the slaw.
4. Spices and Herbs: Hawaiian coleslaw may include spices and herbs commonly used in Hawaiian and Asian cuisine, such as ginger, cilantro, or red pepper flakes, which contribute to its distinct flavor profile.

Overall, the combination of these elements gives Hawaiian coleslaw a refreshing and exotic taste that sets it apart from traditional coleslaw.

Why I love this Hawaiian Coleslaw with pineapple recipe

I love this Pineapple Coleslaw because it’s so full of flavor – it’s the perfect side dish for cookouts, backyard BBQs or pulled chicken and pulled pork sandwiches. It’s a tropical twist on a favorite summer cookout side dish, it’s sweetened with pineapple and gets an extra bit of tang from apple cider vinegar. Your fork is waiting!

Is Hawaiian coleslaw sweet or tangy in taste?

Hawaiian coleslaw is characterized by a balance of both sweet and tangy flavors. The pineapple adds a natural sweetness and a tropical touch to the dish. In addition to pineapple, other sweet components like grated carrots or a touch of sugar in the dressing can be included.

On the other hand, the tanginess in Hawaiian coleslaw is achieved through the tangy dressing. The dressing contains ingredients like mayonnaise, and apple cider vinega. The tanginess helps to balance the sweetness and provides a refreshing flavor.

The flavor profile of this Hawaiian coleslaw leans is a pleasant combination of sweet and tangy, giving it a unique tropical taste.

RELATED: Easy Creamy Coleslaw with Grapes – This easy homemade creamy coleslaw salad recipe is sweetened up with grapes and is much lighter on the dressing and is significantly tastier than store-bought because of the grapes and sunflower seeds and almonds.

What ingredients do you need to make Hawaiian Coleslaw

• Shredded red cabbage
• Shredded green cabbage
• Shredded carrots
• Pineapple tidbits 
• Chopped fresh cilantro

What Ingredients do you need to make Hawaiian Inspired Coleslaw Dressing

• Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• Apple cider vinegar 
• Brown sugar 
• Salt 
• Black pepper

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How to make this Hawaiian Coleslaw with Pineapple

This salad recipe is so easy to make, and it comes together quickly in four simple steps! There is a printable recipe card at the bottom with nutritional information as well. Here is a high level, quick step by step of how to make Hawaiian coleslaw:

1. In a large bowl toss together the shredded red cabbage, green cabbage, carrots, pineapple tidbits, and cilantro. (Here’s a quick tip on how to shred cabbage).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. 
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour prior to serving. Toss again before serving.

Make this Hawaiian Coleslaw with Pineapple recipe, then check out my Easy Creamy Coleslaw with Grapes, Layered Cobb Salad Trifle, and Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Squares and more of my Refreshing Summer Salad Recipes.  

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Tropical coleslaw substitution ideas

The beauty of this Hawaiian coleslaw salad recipe is that you can make it truly your own with a few simple substitutions. Here are a few ideas:

• Add mandarin oranges or diced mango to the salad mix
• Add in some finely chopped red onion
• Use a bagged coleslaw mix instead of chopping your own cabbage (saves time and effort!)
• Use greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to make a lighter version

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Frequently asked questions

1. Mayonnaise Substitute: Instead of using traditional mayonnaise, you can use a vegan mayonnaise made from plant-based oils, such as soybean or avocado oil.
2. Honey Substitute: If the dressing calls for honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup, agave nectar, or another vegan sweetener.
3. Check Ingredients: When adding additional ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or other condiments, make sure they are vegan-friendly or use vegan alternatives.
4. Protein Options: If you’re adding protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to the coleslaw, consider using plant-based alternatives like marinated tofu, tempeh, or grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian or vegan option.

By making these substitutions, you can create a delicious vegetarian or vegan Hawaiian coleslaw that’s suitable for everyone to enjoy!

1. Cabbage: Typically shredded green or purple cabbage forms the base of the coleslaw.
2. Carrots: Grated or thinly sliced carrots add color and texture to the coleslaw.
3. Pineapple: Diced or crushed pineapple adds sweetness and a tropical flair to the coleslaw.
4. Mango: Diced mango adds another layer of sweetness and enhances the tropical flavors.
5. Red Bell Pepper: Finely chopped red bell pepper adds color and a slightly sweet flavor to the coleslaw.
6. Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
7. Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds freshness and a hint of citrus flavor to the coleslaw.
8. Dressing: The dressing typically includes ingredients like mayonnaise (or vegan mayonnaise), rice vinegar, lime juice, honey (or a vegan sweetener), sesame oil, and seasonings like ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and refreshing Hawaiian coleslaw that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or alongside grilled dishes.

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Other summer BBQ recipes to try

• Easy Creamy Coleslaw with Grapes
• Classic Waldorf Salad
• Layered Cobb Salad Trifle
• Summer Berry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

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