Hawaiian Coleslaw Recipe
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish that will transport your taste buds to the tropics? This Hawaiian Coleslaw is the answer! With a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian Coleslaw is an absolute delight for several reasons. It offers a vibrant and tropical twist on a classic side, featuring a creamy dressing that’s both sweet and tangy. The crunch of fresh vegetables combined with the subtle sweetness makes it incredibly addictive. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal, and it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes from grilled meats to fish tacos.
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Ingredients
- 1 bag (14.5 ounces) coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Add the coleslaw mix, drained crushed pineapple, diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro (if using) to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Give the coleslaw a good stir before serving.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
For the best texture and flavor, allow the coleslaw to chill for at least 30 minutes. This gives the salt time to draw out some liquid from the cabbage and allows the flavors to marry beautifully. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon more of pineapple juice. For an extra pop of flavor and texture, consider adding toasted sweetened shredded coconut or some finely chopped green onions.
Variations & Substitutions
You can easily customize this Hawaiian Coleslaw to suit your preferences. Swap the rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar if needed. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño. If pineapple juice isn’t available, you can use a mix of orange juice and a little lime juice. For a vegan version, use a vegan mayonnaise and ensure your sugar is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant coleslaw is a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of dishes. It’s perfect alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, or fish tacos. It also makes a refreshing side for any barbecue or potluck, adding a burst of tropical flavor to your spread. It even complements dishes like Hawaiian pizza or kalua pig.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Store any leftover Hawaiian Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The texture may soften slightly over time. This coleslaw is not recommended for freezing, as the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables can become watery and lose their desirable texture upon thawing.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150-200 per serving (depending on exact ingredients and portion size) |
| Fat | Approximately 8-12g |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 15-20g |
| Sugar | Approximately 10-15g |
| Protein | Approximately 1-2g |
Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQ
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this coleslaw a few hours ahead of time. In fact, it’s best if it has at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld properly. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
What can I do if my coleslaw is too watery?
If your coleslaw seems too watery, it might be because the vegetables have released too much liquid. You can try to drain off some of the excess liquid before serving, or stir in a little more mayonnaise or a touch more sugar to absorb some of the moisture.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
While rice vinegar is recommended for its mild flavor, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. However, avoid strong vinegars like distilled white vinegar, as they can overpower the other flavors.
How long does Hawaiian coleslaw last in the refrigerator?
Hawaiian coleslaw will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The texture might change slightly over time, becoming softer.
Hawaiian Coleslaw
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded coleslaw mix, diced red bell pepper, and diced red onion.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple and chopped fresh cilantro to the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture.
- Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.