My pineapple coleslaw is made with sweet pineapple tidbits, store bought coleslaw mix, and a creamy mayonnaise and citrus dressing that gives it a distinct and refreshing taste. It’s done in just 15 minutes and brings in an incredible amount of flavor!
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My Favorite Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
My family loves pineapple, so there is no surprise that I had to turn regular coleslaw into this delicious pineapple coleslaw version. It’s just so much more flavorful!
I wanted to make the recipe as simple as possible, so I use a store bought coleslaw mix and canned pineapple tidbits as the base and then use mayo and lime juice to get that nice added flavor!
My daughter Leah is pineapple obsessed and making this pineapple coleslaw recipe is exactly what she needed to officially like coleslaw.
Looking for more pineapple recipes to serve on the side? Be sure to try my pineapple casserole or pineapple stuffing next. Or, for a delightful sweet treat, check out my recipes for air fryer pineapple, pineapple ice cream, and pineapple fluff.
Pineapple Slaw Ingredients
- Fresh cilantro – This aromatic herb brightens the flavor of the dressing with its citrusy notes.
- Mayo – Makes the coleslaw mixture rich and creamy, balancing out the acidity of the lime.
- Lime juice – Infuses tangy citrus flavor into the pineapple coleslaw. I prefer freshly squeezed lime juice over bottled for the best taste.
- Salt & pepper – Hints of salt and pepper help complement the taste of the other sweet and tangy ingredients and draw out their natural flavors.
- Bag of coleslaw – I use a pre-packaged bag to keep things simple, but a homemade mixture could easily be made with chopped cabbage and carrots.
- Canned pineapple tidbits – Bring a tropical sweetness to the recipe. I also love the texture that these add, contrasting with the crunchy veggies. Save the juice when draining, as it’s needed for the dressing.
- Reserved pineapple juice – Brings a light sweetness to the dressing, cutting through the creamy and acidic ingredients.
- Green onions – Perfectly fresh and crisp, green onions add subtle peppery flavor to this coleslaw dish, along with a beautiful splash of color.
- Jalapeño – To add satisfying heat and even more color! Jalapeños may vary in terms of spiciness, so feel free to add more or less depending on the desired spice level.
How to Make Pineapple Coleslaw
STEP ONE: Combine the mayo, pineapple juice, lime juice, salt, pepper, and cilantro, mixing thoroughly to form a dressing.
STEP TWO: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, pineapple tidbits, green onions, and jalapeno.
STEP THREE: Drizzle the creamy dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss until all of it is fully coated.
STEP FOUR: Chill and refrigerate the coleslaw for an hour to allow the flavors to combine.
STEP FIVE: Serve with entrees or side dishes of choice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pineapple Slaw Recipe
- Always pat the pineapple dry before incorporating it into the slaw mixture. While some of the reserved juice will be added into this recipe, removing any excess moisture will help prevent a soggy slaw.
- To make this pineapple coleslaw recipe extra rich and creamy, I simply double the amount of dressing used.
- I don’t recommend using fresh pineapple, as it will break down and negatively affect the texture of the coleslaw as it sits. Pineapple tidbits are my go-to and have the ideal size and texture for this slaw.
- Be sure to keep the slaw chilled until right before serving. It’s best served cold!
Pineapple Slaw Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- To give this dish a spicy twist, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. They add the perfect amount of heat on top of the jalapeno’s spice.
- If I don’t have limes on hand, I’ll use fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar as a substitute instead. Either one of these acidic ingredients will bring a sharp, tangy taste to the recipe.
- Diced red onion is one of my favorite mix-ins. It adds extra crunch and an unmistakable zing to each bite.
- For more added crunch, mix in some small celery pieces. This mild, earthy vegetable will enhance the overall texture of the slaw.
What to Serve with this Coleslaw with Pineapple Recipe
My favorite dishes to serve with coleslaw are savory meat recipes like BBQ hot dogs, beef ribs in the oven, grilled chicken legs, or pulled pork in the oven. I always make sure to whip up a fresh batch of slaw when I’m serving fish tacos or chicken sandwiches too.
Pineapple Coleslaw FAQs
Can I make pineapple slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! Coleslaw can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance before it’s served. In fact, I find that the taste is even better when this slaw is made ahead of time! The flavors have more time to develop and soak in wonderfully the longer the ingredients sit.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover coleslaw should be stored and refrigerated in an airtight container. I recommend enjoying it within 3 days for maximum freshness. Any longer than this, the cabbage mixture may begin to lose its crunchy texture.
More Easy Side Dish Recipes
Easy Pineapple Coleslaw
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- ½ cup mayo
- 20 ounces pineapple tidbits canned, reserve the juice
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 14-16 ounces coleslaw mix
- 2 green onions diced
- 1 small jalapeno diced
Instructions
- Combine the mayo, the pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl place the coleslaw mix, pineapple tidbits, green onions and jalapenos.
- Drizzle the dressing over the coleslaw mix and then toss the coleslaw until it's evenly coated.
- Chill and refrigerate the coleslaw for an hour to allow the flavors to combine and serve.
Notes
- This can be made up to 24 hours in advance before it’s initially served.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or covered in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
This nutrition information is based on the exact products I used in this recipe. Brands and sizes of products could alter exact nutrition and should always be calculated independently.
