Pineapple coleslaw is a fresh twist on the classic coleslaw you already know. It mixes the crunchy crunch of cabbage with the sweet, juicy flavor of pineapple to create a salad that’s both tasty and refreshing. This combination makes pineapple coleslaw a great side dish for BBQs, picnics, or any meal that needs a bright, tropical touch.
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You’ll find it’s really easy to make, and you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you like it creamy or light, sweet or tangy, pineapple coleslaw gives you a simple way to enjoy something different with everyday ingredients.
If you want a new way to enjoy coleslaw that is full of flavor and texture, pineapple coleslaw might just become your new favorite. It’s easy, quick, and adds a special pop to your meals.
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Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
This recipe mixes juicy pineapple with crunchy cabbage for a fresh, sweet twist on classic coleslaw. You’ll find a clear list of what you need, easy steps to follow, ways to serve it, and tips to prepare it ahead of time.
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Ingredients Overview
You’ll need fresh ingredients to get the best taste. The main items are green cabbage and pineapple, either crushed or small chunks. You’ll also want carrots for color and crunch, and red onion for a bit of zing.
For the dressing, use mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey or sugar for sweetness. Adding salt and black pepper helps bring all the flavors together. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley are optional but add a nice touch.
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Pineapple Cole Slaw
Ingredients:
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of juice)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Begin by shredding the green and red cabbage along with the carrots, combining them in a large bowl. Drain the crushed pineapple, making sure to save about 2 tablespoons of the juice for the dressing.
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or sugar, and the reserved pineapple juice. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, whisking until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and pineapple, then toss everything together until the cole slaw is evenly coated. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and chill the cole slaw in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
This pineapple cole slaw is a refreshing and sweet side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light salad on its own.
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Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare your coleslaw a day before serving. Keep it covered tightly in the fridge to maintain freshness.
If the mixture releases too much liquid after sitting, gently drain some of the excess or stir well to recombine before serving. Avoid making it more than two days ahead, as the cabbage can become soft.
For best results, keep the dressing separate until close to serving if you want very crunchy veggies. Then toss everything together right before eating.
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Creative Variations
You can change up pineapple coleslaw in many ways to make it fit your taste or diet. Adding new fruits or spices can make it more exciting. You can also swap ingredients to keep it vegan or healthy without losing flavor.
Tropical Twist Additions
Try adding mango or papaya for a sweeter, tropical flavor. A little shredded coconut can add a nice texture. You might also like mixing in chopped green onions or fresh cilantro to brighten the taste.
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Lime juice works well instead of vinegar for a fresh, zesty twist. These changes give your coleslaw a fun, island vibe.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
Use vegan mayo or plain mashed avocado to keep it creamy. These alternatives avoid dairy but still give that smooth texture you’re used to. Make sure the mayo you pick doesn’t include eggs if you’re fully vegan.
Replace honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave nectar. These sweeteners are plant-based and work well with the pineapple’s taste. You can also add mustard or apple cider vinegar for tang without dairy.
Low-Sugar and Healthy Alternatives
If you want less sugar, skip or reduce added sugar in the dressing. Use plain yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and mustard for creaminess with fewer calories.
Swap regular mayo with light or olive oil-based mayo for a healthier fat option. You can add apple cider vinegar and fresh herbs to boost flavor without adding sugar. Using extra cabbage also lowers sugar and adds crunch.
Follow my summer salads board on Pinterest.