Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe

If you’re looking to add a burst of color and flavor to your next cookout or taco night, Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw is the answer! This playful twist on classic coleslaw brings together sweet, juicy pineapple, crunchy purple cabbage, crisp carrots, and just the right amount of kick from fresh jalapeños—it’s as exciting to eat as it is pretty on the plate.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw is all about the mingling of colorful, crunchy, and creamy ingredients. Every component brings a little something special—sweetness, tang, color, or heat—so be sure to have everything prepped and ready to go!

• Purple Cabbage: The hero of this slaw! It lends gorgeous color and crunch; shred it thinly for best texture.
• Carrots: Shredded carrots add extra crunch and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Fresh Pineapple: Use ripe, juicy pineapple cut into tidbits for juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the zesty flavors perfectly.
• Purple Onion: Diced finely for pops of sharp, savory flavor without overpowering the slaw.
• Jalapeños: Remove seeds and membranes for a gentle heat, or leave a bit in for extra kick; always dice them finely and handle with care!
• Cilantro: Roughly chopped cilantro brings a fresh, herbaceous note that makes this slaw so lively.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone for your dressing; use a good-quality mayo for richness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tang and brings out the brightness in the fruit and veggies.
• Granulated Sugar: Just enough to enhance the sweetness of the pineapple and round out the acidity.
• Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and letting the produce shine!

Variations

Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw is endlessly adaptable—if you want to mix things up or tailor it to what you have on hand, you absolutely can. Here are some simple ways to get creative and make this slaw uniquely yours!

• Make it Creamy or Light: Swap some or all of the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier twist.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced bell peppers, scallions, or shredded green cabbage for extra color and crunch.
• Vegan Version: Use your favorite vegan mayo—just as creamy and every bit as delicious!
• Fruit Swap: Instead of pineapple, try mango or even peaches for a different kind of tropical flair.

How to Make Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw

Step 1: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and salt. You want a smooth, glossy dressing—make sure the sugar and salt fully dissolve so every bite is balanced. Set your dressing aside while you prep the veggies.

Step 2: Chop and Combine the Vegetables

Grab your largest mixing bowl and add the shredded purple cabbage, carrots, pineapple tidbits, diced purple onion, diced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. Give them a gentle toss to distribute the colors and textures—this already looks like a party!

Step 3: Mix in the Dressing

Pour the creamy dressing over your vibrant vegetable mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently fold everything together until every piece is beautifully coated and glossy. This is the moment when all those bold flavors start to mingle!

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate your Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw for at least 30 minutes—or longer if you want the flavors to deepen. The chill time lets everything marinate and reach peak deliciousness. Right before serving, give it a quick toss and adjust salt if needed.

How to Serve Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw

Garnishes

For a final pop of freshness and heat, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro, pineapple tidbits, or a few slices of jalapeño on top before serving. These garnishes make your Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw truly eye-catching and let guests know exactly what delicious flavors lie within.

Side Dishes

This coleslaw is an absolute knockout next to smoky barbecue, grilled chicken, or pulled pork sandwiches. It also shines as a cooling, tangy topping for spicy tacos or fish—think of it as your sweet and sassy sidekick for any summer spread!

Creative Ways to Present

Get festive and serve Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw in hollowed-out pineapple halves, or pile it into individual mason jars for picnics and potlucks. It also makes an unforgettable topper for sliders and grilled sausage sandwiches—layer it up for an irresistible crunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days—just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Freezing

While freezing is not recommended for coleslaw with mayo-based dressing (it tends to separate), you can prepare the chopped veggies and freeze them. Simply add the dressing and fresh pineapple after thawing for best results.

Reheating

Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw is meant to be served cold or at cool room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, just take it out 10–15 minutes before serving to let the flavors shine and the veggies crisp up a bit.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a bowl of Pineapple Jalapeno Coleslaw at a sunny gathering or a festive family dinner. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for the recipe—it really is that delightful! Give it a try and watch your meal (and your guests’ taste buds) get a vibrant, flavorful upgrade.

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