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This Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw brings the sunshine straight to your table even on cloudy days. It is a fresh and creamy salad with a gentle zing and a burst of juicy sweetness from pineapple tidbits. Perfect for backyard barbecues or as an easy make-ahead side dish for busy weeknights, this coleslaw relies on protein-packed Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter taste, and the crunch of macadamia nuts gives every bite a bit of island flair.
When I first tried this twisty slaw my skeptical dad went in for seconds and now it is a summer picnic request from the whole family
Ingredients
- Plain Greek yogurt: This forms the creamy base and adds protein Try to pick a thick full fat yogurt for best flavor
- Dijon mustard: Adds subtle sharpness and dimension Choose a brand with smooth texture
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives a fresh tang Always check for unfiltered vinegar for a bit more depth
- Pineapple juice: Reserved from your can it boosts the natural sweetness of the pineapple
- Kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors Look for even flaky crystals
- Black pepper: Brings a gentle heat Use freshly ground for the best kick
- Coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage: A mix of red and green adds pretty color or just use green for a milder flavor Look for crisp leaves
- Canned pineapple tidbits: Drained well Juicy ripe pieces keep it sweet and tropical
- Macadamia nuts: Coarsely chopped for rich crunch Look for lightly roasted nuts for a deep flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl stir together the Greek yogurt Dijon mustard apple cider vinegar pineapple juice salt and pepper Continue to stir until there are no lumps and everything looks creamy and smooth This is your flavor backbone
- Build the Salad Base:
- In a large bowl toss the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage together with the drained pineapple tidbits and chopped macadamia nuts Use your hands or two forks to distribute everything well so each bite will have pineapple and nuts
- Combine and Dress:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture Gently toss and fold with a spatula or tongs to evenly coat every shred of cabbage press down slightly to help the dressing seep in
- Chill or Serve:
- You can serve this right away for a crisp and crunchy bite or cover and chill it in the fridge for a little while if you want it softer Refrigeration lets the flavors meld well but the slaw will gradually lose crunch the longer it sits
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The Greek yogurt in this recipe is my shining star I love how it transforms the texture and makes the whole thing taste refreshing not heavy and my kids now prefer it to traditional versions We once packed it for a beach picnic and the bowl was scraped clean before the main course landed
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The texture will soften as it sits so if you like extra crunch eat it soon after making
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have macadamia nuts try toasted cashews or almonds For a dairy free alternative coconut yogurt works well and keeps the tropical theme Fresh pineapple can also be chopped in place of canned but drain well
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Serving Suggestions
This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled chicken teriyaki kabobs or pulled pork sandwiches If you want to double the tropical flavors serve it alongside fish tacos or veggie burgers
A Bit About Hawaiian Coleslaw
Classic Hawaiian flavors are famous for their balance of sweet salty and tangy Pineapple and macadamia nuts are both beloved in Hawaiian homes and their addition makes this slaw special Without mayonnaise the dish is light and perfect for warm weather meals
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes this slaw different from classic versions?
This version uses Greek yogurt instead of mayo, and adds pineapple tidbits and macadamia nuts for a sweet, tropical twist and extra crunch.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead and refrigerate. However, expect the slaw to soften slightly the longer it sits.
- → What type of pineapple works best?
Canned pineapple tidbits, drained well, offer ideal sweetness and texture. Fresh pineapple may be used if chopped finely.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute Greek yogurt with a preferred plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
- → Can other nuts be used in place of macadamias?
Yes, toasted cashews or sliced almonds work well if macadamia nuts are unavailable.