Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
Hawaiian coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the classic side dish, combining crisp cabbage with sweet pineapple and a tangy, creamy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a vibrant accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients
- 10 ounce bag of 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 and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, and a few shakes of salt until smooth.
- Step 2: In a large serving bowl or storage container, combine the drained crushed pineapple with the coleslaw mix and additional chopped cilantro.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly. Add several turns of black pepper and taste to adjust the salt and seasoning as desired.
- Step 4: For best flavor, refrigerate the coleslaw for a few hours to allow the ingredients to meld, though it’s best enjoyed the same day for crispness.
Tips & Variations
- Try substituting plain Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing with a bit of tang.
- Add chopped green onions or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh pineapple if available; finely chop and drain any excess juice before adding to avoid a soggy slaw.
- Letting the coleslaw sit overnight deepens the flavor, but toss it again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Storage
Store Hawaiian coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It may become slightly watery as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving. This coleslaw is best enjoyed chilled and fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Hawaiian coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld, but for the best texture, avoid making it more than a day in advance.
Is this coleslaw suitable for a vegan diet?
Traditional mayonnaise contains eggs, so to make this vegan, use a plant-based mayonnaise alternative.
PrintHawaiian Coleslaw Recipe
A refreshing and tropical twist on classic coleslaw, Hawaiian Coleslaw combines crisp cabbage and carrots with sweet crushed pineapple, tangy apple cider vinegar, and creamy mayonnaise, garnished with fresh cilantro. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a vibrant complement to your favorite meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Coleslaw Base
- 10 ounce bag of coleslaw mix (or 4 cups shredded cabbage and carrot mix)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, and a few shakes of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Combine coleslaw mix and pineapple: In a large serving bowl or a Tupperware-style storage container, mix together the drained crushed pineapple, coleslaw mix, and additional chopped cilantro to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Add dressing and season: Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Sprinkle several turns of freshly ground black pepper over the top. Taste and adjust salt and pepper seasoning as needed.
- Chill and serve: For the best flavor, refrigerate the coleslaw for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Although ideal when eaten the same day, it can be kept chilled for later use.
Notes
- You can substitute the coleslaw mix with freshly shredded cabbage and carrots for a fresher texture.
- Drain the pineapple well to prevent the coleslaw from becoming too watery.
- Adjust vinegar and seasoning according to your taste preference for a more tangy or creamy dressing.
- This coleslaw is best served chilled and eaten within the same day for optimal freshness.
Keywords: Hawaiian coleslaw, tropical coleslaw, pineapple coleslaw, side dish, summer salad, easy coleslaw recipe

