Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

Published: June 2, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Flavorful: The combination of pineapple and oranges adds a refreshing sweetness that awakens your taste buds.
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful side dish in no time.
Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for summer picnics, holiday gatherings, or as an everyday side, this coleslaw fits any occasion.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the fruits and healthy fats from the pecans, it’s as good for you as it is delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family without breaking a sweat.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pineapple Orange Coleslaw, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
Whisk: Perfect for blending dressings smoothly; it ensures every bite is flavorful.
Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of fruits like mandarin oranges, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

Fresh and delicious Pineapple Orange Coleslaw with fragrant oranges and crunchy pecans. Perfect for picnics and family gatherings.

For the Dressing

1/2 cup Mayonnaise
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

For the Salad

16 oz. bag of Shredded cabbage mix
1 10 oz can pineapple tidbits in pineapple juice, drained
1 cup whole or chopped pecans, your preference
4 peeled and segmented seedless mandarin oranges (Sweeties)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Combine mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Use a whisk to blend until smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients

Place the shredded cabbage mix, pecans, and drained pineapple tidbits into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 3: Add Mandarins

Gently fold in the mandarin orange segments to avoid breaking them apart.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the coleslaw and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This resting time allows flavors to marry beautifully.

Step 5: Serve

Mix well before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra pop of color!

How to Serve Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

Pineapple Orange Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful coleslaw.

On a Picnic Plate

Pair your coleslaw with classic picnic foods like sandwiches or wraps for a balanced meal.

As a Taco Topping

Add a scoop of coleslaw on top of fish or shrimp tacos for a tropical twist.

In a Salad Bowl

Serve it over mixed greens to create a colorful salad that bursts with flavor.

With Grilled Meats

Complement grilled chicken or pork with this sweet and tangy coleslaw for an added crunch.

As a Standalone Side

Enjoy it as a light side dish on its own, perfect for summer barbecues or gatherings.

How to Perfect Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

To achieve the best results for your Pineapple Orange Coleslaw, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage, ripe oranges, and quality mayonnaise enhance flavor and texture.
Chill before serving: Letting the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness.
Add more crunch: Incorporate additional nuts or seeds for extra texture in every bite.
Experiment with dressings: Try different dressings like yogurt-based ones for a lighter option.
Customize fruits: Substitute or add other fruits like mango or apples for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

Pineapple Orange Coleslaw pairs well with many dishes. Here are some great side options to complement your meal.

Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet and smoky, grilled corn makes an excellent summer side.
Baked Beans – A hearty and savory choice that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the coleslaw.
Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser at picnics and cookouts.
Deviled Eggs – These classic appetizers add richness that balances out the freshness of the coleslaw.
Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can enhance the tropical theme of your meal.
Jalapeño Cornbread – Spicy cornbread offers warmth and depth alongside the coolness of the coleslaw.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthy flavors that pair well with citrus notes.
Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat make a filling side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the Dressing: Forgetting to combine the dressing ingredients well can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure you mix mayonnaise, honey, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth before adding the cabbage.
Not Chilling Enough: Serving immediately after preparation can result in a less flavorful dish. Allow the coleslaw to chill for at least one hour in the refrigerator for flavors to meld.
Using Overripe Fruit: Choosing overly ripe mandarin oranges or pineapples can make your salad mushy. Opt for fresh, firm fruit for the best texture and taste.
Ignoring Texture: Not balancing crunchy and soft ingredients may result in an unappealing mouthfeel. Incorporate pecans and cabbage properly to maintain a satisfying crunch.
Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your coleslaw bland. Always check the seasoning before serving, as you may want to add a pinch of salt or more honey for sweetness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days.
Ensure all ingredients are well mixed before sealing.

Freezing Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in vegetables.
If necessary, keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but expect some loss of crunch.

Reheating Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe

Oven: Preheat oven at low heat (around 200°F). Spread coleslaw on a baking sheet until warmed through. This method helps retain crunchiness but is typically not needed for salads.
Microwave: Place coleslaw in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short increments (30 seconds) until warmed, stirring between sessions.
Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently just until warm. Be cautious not to cook it; this recipe is best served cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe?

Yes! You can add other fruits like apples or raisins for added sweetness or swap pecans with walnuts or sunflower seeds for different flavors.

How do I ensure my Pineapple Orange Coleslaw stays crunchy?

To keep your coleslaw crisp, avoid mixing dressing until just before serving. Chilling also helps maintain freshness and crunch.

What can I serve with this coleslaw?

This pineapple orange coleslaw pairs nicely with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread. Its bright flavors complement many dishes.

How long does this coleslaw last?

Your Pineapple Orange Coleslaw will last about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

The Pineapple Orange Coleslaw Recipe brings together vibrant flavors and textures that make it an irresistible side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or enjoying a family meal, this versatile recipe allows for customization based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try it out and add your twist!

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