I still remember the first time I made pineapple coleslaw. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was preparing food for a small family get-together. I wanted something refreshing, quick, and different from the usual salads. That’s when I decided to add sweet pineapple to the classic coleslaw mix. The result was a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish that disappeared from the bowl faster than I could have imagined. Ever since then, it has become one of my favorite go-to recipes whenever I need a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish.

What I love most about this pineapple coleslaw is the perfect balance of flavors. The crunch of cabbage blends beautifully with the juicy pineapple, while the creamy dressing ties everything together. It’s not only delicious but also a dish that sparks curiosity and compliments. Every spoonful feels fresh and satisfying, making it a recipe that works for almost any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile
This pineapple coleslaw pairs well with so many dishes. You can serve it as a side for grilled chicken, beef, or fish. It also works wonderfully with burgers, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a barbecue, or a weeknight dinner, this coleslaw brings brightness to the table.

Budget-Friendly
Another reason I adore this recipe is that it requires only a handful of ingredients. Most of them are simple pantry staples, and the main components like coleslaw mix and canned pineapple are inexpensive. With minimal effort and cost, you can create a side dish that looks and tastes impressive.

Ingredients for Easy Pineapple Coleslaw

• 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix

• 1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits, drained (reserve juice)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp reserved pineapple juice

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• ½ cup mayonnaise

This ingredient list is short, straightforward, and easy to follow. Each item plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that make this coleslaw irresistible.

How to Make Easy Pineapple Coleslaw

Making pineapple coleslaw is one of the simplest and most rewarding recipes I know. It requires minimal preparation, and the steps are so easy that even beginners can follow along without stress. What makes it even better is that this dish looks colorful, tastes refreshing, and fits perfectly into a variety of meals. Let me walk you through the step-by-step process so you can create this creamy, tangy, and sweet coleslaw at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making

Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw Base
Start with a large mixing bowl. Add the entire bag of coleslaw mix, which usually contains finely shredded cabbage and carrots. Next, open your can of pineapple tidbits. Drain them carefully, but don’t throw away the juice. You’ll need some of it for the dressing. Add the drained pineapple tidbits to the bowl with the coleslaw mix. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Toss gently to combine the vegetables and pineapple evenly.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a separate smaller bowl, begin creating the dressing. Add the granulated sugar first, followed by two tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice. Then pour in the apple cider vinegar for that tangy balance. Finally, add the mayonnaise. Using a whisk, stir the mixture until smooth and creamy. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely, as this will help the flavors blend well.

Step 3: Combine the Dressing with the Coleslaw Mix
Take the prepared dressing and pour it slowly over the coleslaw mix. Use a large spoon or spatula to stir everything together until the cabbage, carrots, and pineapple pieces are fully coated. Mix carefully to avoid crushing the pineapple tidbits, ensuring that every bite has a good balance of flavor and crunch.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Transfer the coleslaw to a serving bowl or keep it in the mixing bowl covered with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This chilling step is very important because it allows the flavors to develop and meld together. If you have time, letting it rest overnight will make it taste even better. Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir to redistribute the dressing.

Quick and Easy

This recipe truly shines because of how little time it takes to prepare. You only need about five minutes to assemble the ingredients, and then the refrigerator does the rest of the work. It’s one of those recipes that feels effortless but still delivers an impressive result.

Customizable

You can easily adjust this recipe to match your taste. If you like a sweeter coleslaw, add a little more sugar or pineapple juice. For more tang, increase the apple cider vinegar. You can also swap the coleslaw mix with freshly shredded cabbage and carrots if you prefer. Adding extras like chopped green onions or raisins gives it a unique twist while still keeping the base recipe simple.

Crowd-Pleasing

No matter the occasion, this pineapple coleslaw has a way of pleasing everyone. Its balance of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults. Whether it’s served at a family dinner, a barbecue, or packed for a picnic, the bowl always comes back empty. It’s a dish that not only complements the main course but often becomes the star side dish people ask for again and again.

FAQs About Easy Pineapple Coleslaw

Can I make pineapple coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the flavors to blend even better, making it taste fresher and more flavorful.

How long does pineapple coleslaw last in the fridge?
It usually stays good for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir it well before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely. Fresh pineapple adds an even brighter flavor. Just make sure to cut it into small tidbits and use a bit of the juice for the dressing.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option, you can use plain Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayonnaise. This will give the coleslaw a creamy texture with a slightly tangy taste.

Can I make it less sweet?
Yes, simply reduce the amount of sugar or leave it out entirely. The pineapple itself provides natural sweetness, so you can adjust based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for picnics and outdoor parties?
It works well for picnics and barbecues, but remember to keep it chilled until serving. Since it contains mayonnaise, it should not sit out for long in hot weather.

Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?
Definitely. Chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or green onions can be added for variety. However, the classic version is already delicious and satisfying.

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