Pineapple coleslaw combines the crispness of cabbage and carrots with the sweetness of crushed pineapple, dressed in a creamy blend of mayonnaise and tangy vinegar. It is a perfect side dish for BBQ and is even delicious on top of BBQ pork sandwiches and fish tacos.
This easy recipe will transport your taste buds to the tropics. It’s a delicious twist on the classic side dish with the addition of pineapple and is very similiar to Hawaiian coleslaw.
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
1. Easy to make: This recipe is incredibly easy to make, taking only about 10 minutes of prep time and no cooking required. It uses convenience items you can find at your local grocery store: packaged coleslaw mix and canned pineapple.
2. Tangy and sweet: The combination of sweet pineapple, crunchy cabbage and carrots, and tangy dressing creates a unique flavor experience that will leave your guests wanting more.
This simple slaw is perfect for BBQs and outdoor gatherings. Serve with burgers, hot dogs, or as a side dish to any meal – just like you would traditional coleslaw.
Let’s look at how to make this delicious side dish.
Pineapple Coleslaw Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- pinch of salt
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 14 ounce bag coleslaw mix
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
Directions
To begin, make the creamy dressing by whisking together the white vinegar, sugar, and salt in a large bowl until the sugar dissolves completely.
Then, add the mayonnaise to the vinegar mixture and whisk until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved.
Next, combine the bagged mix and crushed pineapple with the mayonnaise dressing, gently stirring until everything is well-coated.
Once prepared, refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste and texture, as it allows the ingredients to harmonize and develop their full potential.
For a garnish, you can top with pineapple chunks or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.
Storage
Store leftover pineapple slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions
Cabbage: Instead of using a bag of pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, you can shred your own cabbage. While traditional coleslaw uses green cabbage, feel free to mix it up with red cabbage for a pop of color and a slightly sweeter taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, Napa cabbage can be a great choice as well. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cabbage varieties, as each will bring its own unique twist to the dish. (You’ll need approximately 7.5 cups of shredded cabbage for this recipe.) Add some shredded carrots to the cabbage for a pop of color and extra crunch.
Pineapple: I like using crushed pineapple in this recipe because it spreads throughout the slaw and you have more pineapple in your bites. You can use canned tidbits, if you prefer. Just make sure to drain the pineapple well to remove any excess liquid, as you don’t want your coleslaw to become too watery. Additionally, if you prefer a more subtle pineapple flavor, you can reduce the amount of pineapple used or chop it into smaller pieces.
Vinegar: You can use apple cider vinegar in place of regular distilled vinegar.
Mayonnaise: While the recipe calls for mayonnaise, you can easily substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. This will give your coleslaw a tangy and creamy taste, all while reducing the calorie count. Another option is to combine mayonnaise and sour cream for a richer and slightly tangy dressing. Feel free to adjust the proportions of the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Sugar: You can use brown sugar in place of granulated sugar.
With these recipe notes in mind, you’re well-equipped to create a pineapple coleslaw that suits your personal taste. Whether you choose to explore different cabbage varieties, experiment with alternative dressings, or play around with seasonings, the possibilities for customization are endless.
Go ahead and embrace your creativity in the kitchen, and surprise your palate with a pineapple coleslaw that’s uniquely delicious.
📖 Recipe
Pineapple Coleslaw
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- pinch salt
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 14 ounces coleslaw mix
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple drained
Instructions
- To begin, make the creamy dressing by whisking together the white vinegar, sugar, and salt in a large bowl until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Then, add the mayonnaise to the vinegar mixture and whisk until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved.
- Next, combine the bagged mix and crushed pineapple with the mayonnaise dressing, gently stirring until everything is well-coated.
- Once prepared, refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste and texture, as it allows the ingredients to harmonize and develop their full potential.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Be sure to come back and tell us how your pineapple coleslaw turned out!
Dina says
Can I substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt?
Lynda says
I personally have not tried it, but you should be able to. If you want to try it without “diving all in,” you could use 1/2 cup mayo and 1/2 cup Greek yogurt.
Lana says
I was raised on this recipe but Mom added mini marshmallows too and it is delicious.
Lynda says
That’s an interesting twist!
Janette Louise Price says
you stole my recipe. been making coleslaw like this foru church barbecue since th 90s. unbelieveable
Lynda says
It’s amazing how a lot of us have similar recipes. And in case anyone reading this wonders if I stole your recipe, they should know that I don’t know you and it is not possible. Just a coincidence.