Smoked Pineapple Coleslaw with Tangy Lime Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing coleslaw featuring smoked pineapple chunks tossed in a zesty lime dressing, perfect as a smoky side dish. This bbq & smoked-inspired salads ready in about 50 minutes blends smoked pineapple chunks, shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves 6 150 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your smoker to 225°F and smoke 1 cup peeled pineapple chunks over indirect heat with mild wood for 30 minutes until fragrant and lightly caramelized. Let cool to room temperature.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups shredded green cabbage, 2 cups shredded red cabbage, and 1 cup shredded carrots.
  3. Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Chop the smoked pineapple chunks into smaller pieces and add to the cabbage mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Step 5: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Smoked Pineapple Coleslaw with Tangy Lime Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 50 minutes (20 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Smoked Pineapple Coleslaw with Tangy Lime Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Smoked Pineapple Coleslaw with Tangy Lime Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Smoked Pineapple Coleslaw with Tangy Lime Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Smoked Pineapple Coleslaw with Tangy Lime Dressing?

BBQ & Smoked salads like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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