Hawaiian Pineapple Delight Refreshing has been my go-to for beating the summer heat ever since I first tasted it at a backyard luau years ago. The combination of sweet, juicy pineapple, crunchy cabbage, and creamy dressing instantly transported me to a tropical paradise. It’s more than just a salad; it’s a vibrant burst of sunshine in a bowl, with that distinct tangy and nutty flavor profile. This easy Hawaiian pineapple dessert is so simple to whip up, making it perfect for potlucks or a quick, healthy side. It’s truly the ultimate Hawaiian pineapple drink that doubles as a delightful treat. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Delight Refreshing
- Incredible tropical flavor that transports you straight to the islands.
- Amazing taste that balances sweet pineapple with a tangy, creamy dressing.
- Super quick prep time – ready in just 15 minutes!
- A healthier option packed with fresh ingredients and Greek yogurt.
- Budget-friendly, using common pantry staples and canned pineapple.
- A family-favorite side dish that kids and adults adore.
- This refreshing pineapple dessert is perfect for any summer gathering.
- It’s a satisfying and easy Hawaiian pineapple dessert that feels like a treat.
Ingredients for Your Refreshing Pineapple Dessert
Gathering the ingredients for this delightful Hawaiian pineapple treat is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to create a taste of paradise:
- 1 cup drained pineapple tidbits from a can – these offer bursts of sweet, tropical flavor.
- A 10 – 15 oz. pack of coleslaw mix, or 4 – 5 cups of mixed shredded green and red cabbage – provides a fantastic crunchy base.
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped macadamia nuts – for that essential nutty texture and rich flavor, a key component of a true Hawaiian pineapple delight.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt – this forms the creamy base of our dressing, making it lighter than traditional mayo-based salads.
- 2 Tablespoons pineapple juice (saved from canned pineapple bits) – adds extra pineapple flavor to the dressing and helps thin it out.
- 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar – for a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt – enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – for a hint of spice.
While this recipe doesn’t include coconut, the combination of pineapple, nuts, and creamy dressing evokes the feeling of a delicious pineapple and coconut delight. For more information on the benefits of pineapple, you can check out Healthline’s article on pineapple.
While this recipe doesn’t include coconut, the combination of pineapple, nuts, and creamy dressing evokes the feeling of a delicious pineapple and coconut delight.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Delight Refreshing
Making this refreshing pineapple dessert is so simple, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner! It’s the perfect way to bring a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this Hawaiian pineapple delight.
- Step 1: Start by crafting the dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the 3/4 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt, 2 Tablespoons pineapple juice (the liquid you saved from the can!), 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy, with no lumps in sight. The aroma of the tangy dressing is already promising!
- Step 2: Now, let’s assemble the salad base. In a large bowl, add your coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage), the 1 cup of drained pineapple tidbits, and the 1/2 cup of roughly chopped macadamia nuts. Give these a gentle toss to mix them evenly. You’ll start to see the vibrant colors and textures coming together.
- Step 3: It’s time to unite the flavors! Drizzle that luscious dressing you made all over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are beautifully coated. You want every bite to have that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. This is how to make Hawaiian pineapple delight truly shine.
- Step 4: For the best experience, serve this Hawaiian pineapple treat immediately. This ensures you get the maximum crunch from the coleslaw mix and nuts. If you prefer a slightly softer texture or need to prep ahead, you can chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Just be aware that as it sits longer, the coleslaw will soften a bit. Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian pineapple refreshment!
Pro Tips for the Best Tropical Pineapple Refreshment
Elevating this simple Hawaiian pineapple delight is easy with a few insider tricks. These tips ensure your refreshing pineapple dessert is always a hit!
- For the crispiest salad, add the dressing just before serving. This preserves the crunch of the coleslaw mix and macadamia nuts, making it the ultimate tropical pineapple refreshment.
- Don’t skimp on the macadamia nuts! Their buttery crunch is essential to the authentic Hawaiian pineapple treat experience. Toasting them lightly beforehand can deepen their flavor even more.
- Taste and adjust the dressing before mixing. If you prefer it tangier, add a little more apple cider vinegar. If you like it sweeter, a tiny drizzle of honey can work wonders.
- Save extra pineapple juice from the can. It’s perfect for thinning the dressing if it becomes too thick or for making a quick Hawaiian pineapple drink on the side.
What’s the secret to the perfect Hawaiian pineapple treat?
The secret lies in the balance! It’s the creamy, tangy dressing combined with the sweet pineapple, crunchy nuts, and crisp slaw. This Hawaiian pineapple delight is a simple pineapple cooler recipe that hits all the right notes. For more dessert inspiration, check out our dessert recipes.
Can I make Hawaiian Pineapple Delight ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Mix the dressing and chop the nuts and pineapple. Combine the slaw mix and pineapple/nuts, but only toss everything together with the dressing shortly before serving to maintain crispness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with this refreshing pineapple beverage?
Avoid overmixing the salad once the dressing is added, as this can make the slaw soggy. Also, be sure to drain the pineapple tidbits well; excess liquid can water down the dressing and affect the texture of this Hawaiian pineapple treat.
Best Ways to Serve Your Pineapple Summer Drink
This vibrant Hawaiian pineapple delight is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect side for so many meals. Imagine serving it at your next barbecue alongside grilled chicken or kalua pig – it’s a fantastic contrast to smoky flavors. For a lighter meal, pair it with some fresh grilled fish or even a simple veggie burger. It also makes a wonderful addition to a potluck spread, standing out as a refreshing Hawaiian fruit dessert that everyone will rave about. Don’t forget to try it alongside some sweet pulled pork sliders for a delightful sweet and savory combination! If you’re looking for more summer side dishes, consider our Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad.
Nutrition Facts for Hawaiian Pineapple Delight Refreshing
This Hawaiian pineapple delight is a light and flavorful option, perfect as a side dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade Hawaiian pineapple refreshment. For more healthy eating tips, explore resources on MyPlate.
How to Store and Reheat Your Pineapple Frozen Treat
This delightful Hawaiian pineapple delight is best enjoyed fresh, but knowing how to store it properly means you can still enjoy its tropical flavors later. Once you’ve finished your delicious homemade Hawaiian pineapple refreshment, let any leftovers cool down completely. Then, transfer the salad to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer as a true pineapple frozen treat, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Hawaiian pineapple delight, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheating isn’t really necessary, as this is a chilled salad. However, if you find it’s too cold for your liking, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Remember, the texture might change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer than when it was first made. It’s still a yummy, quick pineapple dessert, though! For other frozen treat ideas, consider our dessert recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Delight Recipe
What is Hawaiian Pineapple Delight?
Hawaiian Pineapple Delight is a wonderfully refreshing and easy salad that captures the essence of a tropical getaway. It’s a delightful mix of sweet canned pineapple tidbits, a crunchy coleslaw base, and rich macadamia nuts, all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side. It’s a unique Hawaiian fruit dessert that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Can I substitute the macadamia nuts?
Absolutely! While macadamia nuts offer a distinct buttery crunch that’s characteristic of many Hawaiian dishes, you can certainly use other nuts if they aren’t available. Toasted almonds, pecans, or even walnuts would work well and add a lovely texture. For a nut-free version, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas for a similar crunchy element to this Hawaiian pineapple treat.
How do I make this a more substantial meal?
To turn this into a more filling dish, I love adding some protein! Grilled chicken breast, shredded kalua pig, or even some cooked shrimp tossed in can transform it into a hearty main course. You could also serve it alongside a protein like baked salmon or a veggie burger to make it a complete meal. It’s a versatile base for many delicious Hawaiian pineapple recipes. For a complete meal idea, try our Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh pineapple! If you opt for fresh, make sure to dice it into similar-sized pieces as the canned tidbits. You’ll want about 1 cup of diced fresh pineapple. You might need to adjust the dressing slightly as fresh pineapple can be juicier, so drain it very well. Using fresh pineapple will give you an even brighter, more intense tropical pineapple refreshment.
Variations of Refreshing Tropical Dessert You Can Try
Looking for more ways to enjoy this delightful Hawaiian pineapple treat? This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, offering plenty of easy pineapple dessert ideas to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to inspire your next culinary adventure:
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap the Greek yogurt for a rich, unsweetened coconut yogurt or a cashew-based cream. This maintains the creaminess while adding an extra layer of tropical flavor, making it a fantastic dairy-free refreshing tropical dessert.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño to the dressing. This creates a surprising and delightful contrast to the sweet pineapple and creamy base.
- Extra Fruity Fusion: Incorporate other tropical fruits like diced mango, papaya, or even some halved red grapes. This enhances the fruit salad aspect and makes it an even more vibrant Hawaiian fruit dessert.
- Coconut Cream Dream: If you adore coconut, add about 1/4 cup of shredded sweetened coconut to the salad mix along with the nuts and pineapple. This will really amp up the tropical vibes and bring it closer to a pineapple and coconut delight.
Hawaiian Pineapple Delight: 15-Min Tropical Bliss
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Hawaiian Pineapple Delight is a refreshing summer salad. It combines a creamy dressing with sweet pineapple, crunchy coleslaw, and nutty macadamia nuts for a tropical taste.
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 2 Tablespoons pineapple juice (saved from canned pineapple bits)
- 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped macadamia nuts
- 1 cup drained pineapple tidbits from a can
- A 10 – 15 oz. pack of coleslaw mix, or 4 – 5 cups of mixed shredded green and red cabbage
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk until smooth and lump-free.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, drained pineapple tidbits, and chopped macadamia nuts. Toss gently to mix.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Note that the salad may soften over time.
Notes
- Best served fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.
- The salad can be made ahead, but it may soften over time.
- Experiment with ingredient ratios to tailor the taste to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg