Put a sweet and savory tropical twist on the classic picnic side dish with this Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw. This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or a delightful addition to any meal. The creamy texture from Greek yogurt gives it a unique flair while maintaining a refreshing taste. Enjoy this no-mayo coleslaw as a side dish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Healthy: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo makes this coleslaw lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Tropical Flavor: The addition of pineapple and macadamia nuts introduces a delightful tropical twist that stands out at any gathering.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or potlucks, this coleslaw complements a variety of main dishes.
- Make Ahead Option: This coleslaw can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to meld while making your event planning easier.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without spills.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth dressing by blending all components effectively.
- Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients
To make your Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dressing
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from draining the can of pineapple tidbits)
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Slaw
- One 10-15 oz. bag coleslaw mix (or about 4-5 cups shredded cabbage)
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (from a can, drained)
- 1/2 cup macadamia nuts (coarsely chopped)
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Combine the Slaw Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage, pineapple tidbits, and chopped macadamia nuts until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Use a spatula to gently stir everything together until the dressing is evenly coated on all ingredients.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Serve immediately for maximum crunchiness or refrigerate until ready to serve. Note that it will keep for a couple of days but may become softer over time.
Enjoy your tropical Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw as a refreshing side at your next meal!
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a delightful twist on the traditional coleslaw, perfect for warm weather gatherings. Here are some fun and tasty ways to serve this refreshing salad.
As a Side Dish
- With Grilled Chicken – The sweet and tangy flavors of the coleslaw complement grilled chicken perfectly.
- Alongside Turkey Burgers – This coleslaw adds a tropical flair to your turkey burgers, enhancing their savory taste.
In Tacos
- Fish Tacos – Use Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw as a crunchy topping for fish tacos, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Pulled Chicken Tacos – Add this coleslaw to pulled chicken tacos for a delicious contrast of textures.
On Sandwiches
- Pulled Beef Sandwiches – A scoop of coleslaw on a pulled beef sandwich brings freshness and crunch.
- Veggie Wraps – Include it in veggie wraps for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Making Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish even further.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cabbage and ripe pineapple enhance the flavor and crunch of your coleslaw.
- Chill Before Serving – Letting the coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Sweetness – Taste before serving; if you want more sweetness, add a bit more pineapple juice or honey.
- Add Extra Crunch – For added texture, consider incorporating bell peppers or carrots into your slaw mix.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:
- Grilled Vegetables – Colorful veggies roasted on the grill bring vibrant flavors that match well with the sweet coleslaw.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing pairs nicely, enhancing the tropical theme.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the sweetness of pineapple and adds a classic summer feel.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the coleslaw.
- Sweet Potato Fries – The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries harmonizes with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella with basil offer a refreshing balance to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your dressing can leave your coleslaw bland. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Overmixing the salad: Mixing too vigorously can break down the cabbage and make it soggy. Gently toss the ingredients instead to keep the crunch.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality pineapple and vegetables is key. Opt for ripe produce for the best flavor in your coleslaw.
- Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately may result in a less flavorful dish. Letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
- Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the cabbage and pineapple.
- If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.
Reheating Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. This may soften your coleslaw but enhance its flavor.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw.
What is Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is a tropical twist on traditional coleslaw, featuring pineapple and a yogurt-based dressing instead of mayonnaise.
Can I customize Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?
Yes! Feel free to add other fruits like mango or nuts such as walnuts or pecans for additional flavor and texture.
How should I serve Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw?
This coleslaw makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or as part of a summer picnic spread.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy access throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it perfect for any summer gathering. With its unique blend of sweet pineapple and crunchy cabbage, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts!
Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw
Discover a tropical delight with Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw, a refreshing twist on the classic side dish. This vibrant salad combines crunchy cabbage, juicy pineapple, and creamy Greek yogurt for a light yet flavorful experience. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or any meal, this no-mayo coleslaw will be a hit at your gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (10–15 oz) or 4-5 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (drained)
- 1/2 cup macadamia nuts (coarsely chopped)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage with pineapple tidbits and chopped macadamia nuts.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and gently stir until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3/4 cup (150g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg



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