Caribbean Slaw with Pineapple
Jump to RecipeWelcome to your new favorite dish: Caribbean Slaw with Pineapple! This vibrant, crunchy slaw is a tropical twist on the classic coleslaw, bursting with freshness and flavor. With its colorful mix of green and red cabbage, sweet pineapple chunks, and a zingy dressing, this slaw is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a zesty side dish for any meal. Not only is it visually appealing, but it's also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for those looking to add more veggies to their diet. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients, such as honey, lime juice, and cilantro, brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your table. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it on its own, this Caribbean Slaw is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a refreshing slaw that complements any dish!
Ingredients
green cabbage
Choose firm heads of cabbage without blemishes. If you need a substitute, napa cabbage or savoy cabbage can work well, though they have different textures. Shred the cabbage finely to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients.
red cabbage
Red cabbage adds color and a slightly peppery flavor. If unavailable, you can use more green cabbage or purple kale for a similar effect. Always rinse and dry the cabbage before shredding to keep it crisp.
carrots
Use fresh, firm carrots for the best crunch. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded carrots can save you effort. For a twist, try using shredded jicama or even zucchini as a substitute.
pineapple chunks
Fresh pineapple will provide the best flavor, but canned pineapple works in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well. For a tropical twist, you could substitute mango or papaya.
red bell pepper
Look for peppers that are smooth and firm. If you want a slightly different flavor, yellow or orange bell peppers can be used as substitutes. You can also roast the bell pepper for a sweeter, smokier taste.
green onions
Choose green onions that are bright green with firm, white bulbs. If you don't have green onions, chives or shallots can be good alternatives. Slice them thinly to enhance their flavor.
cilantro
Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor; however, if you don’t like it, you can substitute with parsley for a milder taste. Always chop cilantro just before using it to retain its freshness.
lime juice
Freshly squeezed lime juice is ideal for the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can work, but use it sparingly as it can be more concentrated.
honey
Honey adds sweetness and helps balance the acidity of the lime juice. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be good substitutes.
olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor. If you're looking for a different taste, avocado oil or a light vegetable oil can be used instead.
salt
Use kosher salt for better control over seasoning. If you need a low-sodium option, you can use sea salt or simply reduce the amount.
black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper will provide the best flavor. If you don't have it, white pepper can be used, but it has a different taste profile.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of shredded red cabbage, and 1 cup of grated or julienned carrots. Make sure to use fresh cabbages for the best crunch and flavor.Step 2: Add Pineapple and Peppers
To the bowl, add 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh is best, but canned can be used if drained well), 1 medium diced red bell pepper, and 2 stalks of chopped green onions. The sweetness of the pineapple will complement the crunch of the cabbage.Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. This tangy dressing will enhance the flavors of your slaw.Step 4: Combine the Slaw and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is well coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the slaw with 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro for added freshness and a pop of color. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I properly shred cabbage for slaw?
To shred cabbage, remove the outer leaves and cut the cabbage in half. Remove the core, then slice it thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform pieces. Aim for thin strips to ensure a nice texture in your slaw.
What’s the best way to cut a red bell pepper?
To cut a red bell pepper, slice off the top and bottom, then stand it upright and cut down the sides to remove the core and seeds. Lay the pepper flat and slice it into strips or dice it as needed.
How can I make sure my carrots are evenly grated?
Use a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. If grating by hand, choose a medium-sized hole to achieve a consistent size. For a finer texture, use the smallest hole on the grater.
How can I tell if my pineapple chunks are fresh?
Fresh pineapple should smell sweet and tropical. The flesh should be firm but slightly soft to the touch. Avoid any that have brown spots or an overly fermented smell.
What’s the best way to whisk salad dressing?
Using a small bowl, add all the dressing ingredients and use a whisk or fork to mix vigorously until combined and slightly emulsified. If you have a jar with a lid, you can also shake it well to combine.
How can I ensure my slaw stays crunchy?
To keep your slaw crunchy, prepare it just before serving. If you need to make it ahead, store the dressing separately and mix it in right before serving.
What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a different flavor, or simply omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I use a different type of oil for the dressing?
Yes! While olive oil is commonly used, you can substitute it with avocado oil or another neutral oil. Just be mindful that different oils may slightly alter the flavor of your dressing.
What should I do if I don’t have lime juice?
If you're out of lime juice, you can substitute it with lemon juice, which will give a similar acidity and brightness to the slaw.
How can I safely chop vegetables?
Always use a sharp knife and a stable cutting board. Keep your fingers curled under and use your knuckles as a guide to avoid cutting yourself. Take your time and don’t rush the chopping process.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
This slaw is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan option, substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce sugar, you can omit the honey altogether or adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. To make it low-carb, consider reducing the amount of pineapple or using a sugar-free alternative for the dressing.
Pairings
This Caribbean Slaw with Pineapple pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as jerk chicken or shrimp skewers, as the sweetness of the pineapple complements the spices in the jerk marinade. Additionally, it can be paired with fish tacos or served as a refreshing side for barbecued ribs. For beverages, consider serving it with a fruity white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a light lager beer, or a tropical cocktail like a Piña Colada.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Caribbean Slaw chilled in a large bowl as a vibrant centerpiece on your dining table. For an added touch, serve it in individual cups or mason jars for a fun, portable option at picnics or potlucks. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges on the side for guests to customize their servings. If you're serving the slaw as part of a buffet, provide a large spoon for easy serving and label the dish to highlight its vibrant flavors.
Caribbean Slaw with Pineapple
Cuisine:
Course:
Description
A vibrant, refreshing slaw bursting with tropical flavors from fresh pineapple and a zesty dressing.
Ingredients
- green cabbage: 2 cups
- red cabbage: 1 cup
- carrots: 1 cup
- pineapple chunks: 1 cup
- red bell pepper: 1 medium
- green onions: 2 stalks
- cilantro: 1 tablespoon
- lime juice: 2 tablespoons
- honey: 1 tablespoon
- olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- salt: 1 teaspoon
- black pepper: 1 teaspoon
Date Created:
3/9/2025