Name: Hawaiian Coleslaw
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 10 oz coleslaw mix; 2 tbsp chopped cilantro; 1 can crushed pineapple drained; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; salt to taste; black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Hawaiian Coleslaw brings a bright, sweet, and tangy twist to your classic summer favorite. This quick and easy recipe combines crisp cabbage with juicy pineapple for a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with grilled meals. If you’re looking for a side dish that feels light yet flavorful, this Hawaiian Coleslaw delivers in every bite. Plus, it comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Story

I first made Hawaiian Coleslaw for a backyard cookout when I wanted something different from the usual creamy slaw. While traditional recipes feel heavy, Hawaiian Coleslaw offers a fresh balance of sweetness and tang that stands out on any table. The crushed pineapple adds a natural sweetness, while apple cider vinegar keeps everything bright and lively. Over time, this Hawaiian Coleslaw became my go-to tropical slaw because it works with everything from barbecue chicken to pulled pork. Even better, it stays crisp and flavorful, especially after chilling for a bit. Whenever I need a quick and crowd-pleasing easy salad, this recipe always comes through.

Ingredients

10 oz coleslaw mix (or 4 cups shredded cabbage and carrot mix)
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1 (15-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup mayonnaise
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by draining the crushed pineapple well so the coleslaw does not become watery, then finely chop the cilantro and measure all ingredients to keep the process quick and smooth.

Cooking Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, chopped cilantro, and salt until smooth, then combine the coleslaw mix and pineapple in a large bowl, pour the dressing over, toss everything thoroughly, add freshly ground black pepper, and mix again until evenly coated.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid adding pineapple with excess juice because it can make the coleslaw soggy, and do not skip tasting before serving since the balance of sweet and tangy flavors may need slight adjustment.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper flavor, let the Hawaiian Coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for a few hours so the ingredients blend together, and if you prefer more sweetness or tang, adjust with small amounts of brown sugar or extra vinegar.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Hawaiian Coleslaw chilled alongside grilled meats, barbecue chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or seafood dishes for a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day, and stir before serving again since the dressing may settle at the bottom.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Coleslaw offers a simple yet flavorful way to upgrade your summer meals with a sweet and tangy twist. Because it takes only minutes to prepare, you can easily add it to any menu without extra effort. Try this recipe once, and it will quickly become a staple at your cookouts and family dinners.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hawaiian Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Hawaiian Coleslaw a few hours in advance, and chilling actually improves the flavor as the ingredients blend together more fully.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Fresh pineapple works well as long as you finely chop it and remove excess juice to keep the coleslaw from becoming watery.

How can I make this coleslaw lighter?

You can replace part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture while still keeping a creamy consistency.