Hawaiian Coleslaw

Hawaiian Coleslaw is a delightful twist on the classic side dish, perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or any gathering. This vibrant slaw combines fresh ingredients like pineapple and cabbage with a zesty ginger-soy lime vinaigrette. The result is a refreshing and colorful addition to your table that will impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor: The addition of pineapple gives this coleslaw a sweet and tangy profile that stands out from traditional recipes.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this Hawaiian Coleslaw comes together effortlessly.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a topping for sandwiches, this slaw fits many occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and low in calories, it makes for a guilt-free accompaniment to any meal.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while it chills in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Hawaiian Coleslaw, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Mason jar
• Grater
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: It provides ample space for mixing all ingredients without spills.
• Mason jar: Ideal for shaking up the vinaigrette ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Hawaiian Coleslaw with pineapple, cabbage, carrots, sesame seeds and a ginger-soy lime vinaigrette brings a tropical taste to traditional slaw.

Vegetables and Fruits

• 2 1/2 cups shredded green cabbage (packed)
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage (packed)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple (diced)
• 1/2 cup grated carrots (packed)
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (minced)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 3 Tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 lime (juiced)
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds

How to Make Hawaiian Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Combine cabbages, carrots, pineapple, green onions, and cilantro in a large bowl. Set aside while you prepare the dressing.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a mason jar:
1. Add grated ginger, olive oil, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and lime juice.
2. Secure the lid tightly and shake well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Stir until everything is well coated. Season with salt to taste.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When ready to serve, garnish with black sesame seeds for an added crunch!

How to Serve Hawaiian Coleslaw

Hawaiian coleslaw is a refreshing and vibrant dish that can elevate any meal. Its tropical flavors make it a versatile side that pairs well with various cuisines.

As a Picnic Side

• Perfect for outdoor gatherings, this coleslaw adds a sweet crunch to your picnic spread.

On Tacos

• Use Hawaiian coleslaw as a topping for fish or shrimp tacos to enhance the dish with a tropical twist.

With Grilled Meats

• This slaw complements grilled chicken or pork, providing a cool contrast to the smoky flavors.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Try adding Hawaiian coleslaw to sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor and texture.

In Bowls

• Layer it in grain bowls with quinoa or rice for a nutritious and colorful meal option.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Coleslaw

Creating the best Hawaiian coleslaw requires attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your slaw shines.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and crisp vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the slaw to chill lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste and adjust honey based on the sweetness of your pineapple.
• Experiment with Textures: Add nuts or seeds for crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
• Balance Flavors: Ensure you have a good mix of sweet, salty, and tangy in your dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Coleslaw

Pairing Hawaiian coleslaw with complementary side dishes can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Add sweet, caramelized pineapple skewers for extra tropical flavor.
2. BBQ Chicken Wings: The smoky taste of BBQ wings contrasts nicely with the refreshing slaw.
3. Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf provides a neutral base that allows the slaw’s flavors to shine.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances outdoor dining experiences and pairs well with creamy dishes.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries add a satisfying crunch alongside the slaw’s softness.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers protein and complements the textures of Hawaiian coleslaw.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers are visually appealing and delicious alongside your slaw.
8. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs perfectly with the tangy flavors of your coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Coleslaw can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the slaw allows flavors to remain separate. Always chill for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
• Overdressing the coleslaw: Adding too much vinaigrette can make it soggy. Start with less dressing and add more if needed.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old produce affects flavor and texture. Always choose fresh cabbage, pineapple, and herbs.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your coleslaw bland. Taste and adjust salt before serving for a balanced flavor.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Unevenly sized pieces lead to inconsistent textures. Aim for uniform sizes when shredding or dicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Hawaiian Coleslaw can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it longer.

Freezing Hawaiian Coleslaw

• Freezing is not recommended: The texture of cabbage may become mushy after thawing.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.

Reheating Hawaiian Coleslaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread slaw on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, but cold is better.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 20 seconds until warmed through, but this might soften the crunch.
• Stovetop: Use low heat in a skillet with a splash of water, stirring gently until just heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Hawaiian Coleslaw:

What is Hawaiian Coleslaw?

Hawaiian Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish made with shredded cabbages, carrots, pineapple, and a ginger-soy lime vinaigrette.

How do I make Hawaiian Coleslaw vegan?

To make it vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the recipe.

Can I customize my Hawaiian Coleslaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers or nuts for added crunch and flavor.

How long does Hawaiian Coleslaw last?

When stored properly in the fridge, Hawaiian Coleslaw lasts about three days before it starts to lose its freshness.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Coleslaw is a delightful twist on traditional slaw that brings tropical flavors to your table. Its vibrant colors and crunchy texture make it perfect as a side dish for barbecues or picnics. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or nuts!