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Hawaiian Pineapple Coleslaw

Hawaiian pineapple coleslaw is an easy tropical coleslaw with shredded purple cabbage, carrots, and well-drained crushed/chunk pineapple tossed in a tangy-sweet, creamy dressing. Chill time helps the dressing cling to every strand for a vibrant BBQ side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
chilling 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetable base
  • 4 cup green cabbage thinly shredded
  • 2 cup purple cabbage thinly shredded
  • 1 cup carrots shredded
Pineapple and dressing
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed or chunk pineapple well drained
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.01 salt to taste
  • 0.01 pepper to taste
Garnish
  • 0.25 cup toasted coconut flakes for garnish
  • 2 tbsp green onions sliced

Method
 

Build the coleslaw base
  1. Add the thinly shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots to a large bowl and toss to combine.
  2. Drain the crushed or chunk pineapple very thoroughly, pressing out excess liquid, then add it to the cabbage mixture.
Make the tangy-sweet dressing
  1. Whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and pineapple, then toss until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Taste the mixture and adjust salt, vinegar, or honey as needed.
Chill and finish
  1. Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to chill and let the flavors meld.
  2. Just before serving, top with toasted coconut flakes and sliced green onions.

Notes

Pro tip: draining the pineapple very thoroughly prevents watery coleslaw—press the pineapple in a sieve or strainer until very little liquid drips. Store covered in the refrigerator for 3–4 days; the coconut garnish is best added right before serving. Freezing is not recommended because the cabbage texture softens. For a lighter option, use light mayonnaise or a Greek-yogurt-based mayo substitute in the same amount.