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Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

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Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Are you ready for some FUN?

Queue some mellow Hawaiian tunes and pass the Kahlua pork!

These fruit kabobs in a pineapple are a great option anytime you want to serve fruit in a fresh, fun new way.   One of the more popular dishes at our last luau, your guests will love it.   Use a wide variety of fruit, in a festive range of colors including:

Cantaloupe

Pineapple

Watermelon

Strawberries

Kiwl or Honey Dew Melon

Mandarin Oranges

And it couldn’t be easier.  Start by cutting off the tops of your strawberries, like this.

Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Next, cut your fruit into 1 inch bite-size pieces and place in bowls.  Then slice off the bottom of a pineapple so it will stand upright solidly, like this.

Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Finally, simply thread your fruit onto the skewers and insert into the pineapple at an angle all around the pineapple in 4 rows.   I made this pineapple with 12 skewers for an Eclipse party we recently held.

It tastes every bit as great as it looks.

Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Pin for Later

Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple

Or Make Now

 

5 from 1 vote
Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple
Fruit Kabobs in a Pineapple
Prep Time
20 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 

An AlohaDreams.com recipe.

Course: Side Dish
Servings: 24 servings
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
  • 1 pineapple (for the center piece, not for the kabob pieces)
  • 24 wooden skewers
  • 24 pieces watermelon
  • 48 strawberries (Note: Get 3 pounds. Each pound of strawberries = about 18 strawberries)
  • 24 pieces cantaloupe (1 cantaloupe)
  • 24 pieces mandarin oranges (1 can or small jar)
  • 24 pieces pineapple (1 whole pineapple will yield about 6 slices with 6 pieces per slice to total 36 pieces)
  • 24 slices kiwi fruit or 24 pieces honeydew melon (About 6 slices per kiwi, so get 4 kiwi)
Instructions
  1. Cut the bottom off the pineapple so it sits flat on a plate.
  2. Cut the fruit into 1-inch, or bite-size, chunks.  Trim the leaves off the strawberries, but do not core them.

  3. If using wooden or bamboo skewers, make sure all the splinters are off of them by rolling two together in your hands, or rub them over each other, as if you are sharpening a knife.
  4. Skewer the fruit on the skewers, alternating fruit types and colors on each stick.

  5. Make sure to insert the skewers into the pineapple angled up, so the fruit don't slip off the end.

MAKE AHEAD NOTE:
  1. Pineapple Kabobs can be made earlier in the day for serving the same day.  For best results, I would not make them the day prior

 

 

Aloha Dreams

Welcome to Aloha Dreams!

I'm so glad you dropped by.  I'm Betsy.  Here you'll find my favorite fabulous, trusted recipes - everything from delicious, quick meals for your family to wonderful classics made easy.

I'm also here to help you with large group recipes from 20 to 200.  So next opportunity you get to cook for a large group - Say 'Yes!'  Then relax. I've got your back.

Ever wished you could build your dream home? How about building your dream home in a tropical paradise?  Join me, room by room, as we design and build a fabulous dream home in Hawaii!

Explore Aloha Dreams

Things to do Big Island of Hawaii
Dream Home Bathroom

EXPLORE

If you're planning a vacation to Hawaii, I've got you covered on the very best places to go!   From many amazing restaurants to incredible adventures in the surf and on land, this is your go-to source for unique and exciting things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.  Or just take a Virtual Vacation!!    Let's go!

SAY YES!

If you've been asked to cook for a large group activity, be it a Girl's Camp or a Graduation Party, say Yes!  I'm here to help.  From Menus to Game Plans to Recipes, I'll help you keep on schedule and turn out amazingly delicious food if you're cooking for a crowd!  My recipes are tested and trusted.    Let's cook! 

AHONUI

Ever wished you could build your dream home?  Like amazing house design and home building ideas?  Me too!  Join me as I design and build a home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Follow along while I design each room. Enjoy a front row seat for the entire amazing construction process.  Let's play!

PARTY

Would you like to throw a Luau, but not sure where to start?   Want to know how to build a tiki bar and roast a pig?  Here's everything you need to have a luau.  How about a Christmas Feast or even a fabulous dinner for your neighborhood supper club?  You've come to the right place.    Let's party!

Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken

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Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken

This is without a doubt one of the Best. Chicken. Recipes. Ever.

We fixed this for our luau last year.  I figured out of the 140 guests there had to be some folks who didn’t like roast pig.  I couldn’t imagine who, but I knew there had to be someone.  So we made 70 pieces of Huli Huli chicken to supplement the roast pig.  Turns out no one doesn’t like roast pig.  But NO ONE wanted to skip the chicken either.

I.  Ran. Out.

I NEVER run out of food.  Never.

Well, I ran out of Huli Huli chicken.  In the midst of all this luau goodness, EVERYONE WANTED THE HULI HULI CHICKEN.

Did I mention this is a great recipe.  You have to try this one before the summer’s over.  Find any excuse, but make this chicken.  You’ll love it.

Huli Huli Chicken

Huli-Huli Chicken is a quintessential Hawaiian dish.  It was created in 1955 by Ernest Morgado of Pacific Poultry.  Ernest barbecued his version of teriyaki chicken for a farmers gathering.

The chicken was such a hit, its popularity spread and it eventually became a favorite food for Hawaiian fundraisers.  It’s still often used by schools, softball teams and hula halau (hula groups) to raise money.  Huli Huli chicken is typically cooked between two grills or on a large rotisserie.  The grills are flipped over repeatedly to allow the chicken to cook evenly on all sides. And since huli is the Hawaiian word for turn, it became known as Huli-Huli Chicken.

If you’re ever on the Big Island, you owe it to yourself to check out GJ’s roadside Huli Huli chicken stand.  I promise you the smell alone will pull you over.  You can read all about GJ’s Huli Huli chicken here.  It’s amazingly good.

Huli Huli Chicken

There are several secrets to great Huli-Huli chicken.  First of all you need to marinate your chicken for at least an hour and preferable longer, but don’t exceed 8 hours or it will be too salty.  Secondly, use thighs – they are much less likely to dry out than breasts and they are more flavorful.  Third, apply the glaze right before you remove the chicken from the grill.  There is a lot of sugar in the glaze and if you apply it any sooner, the chicken can easily burn.

Huli Huli Chicken

To make cooking your chicken, steaks or any meat on your grill or oven a worry-free event, consider using one of these cool tools:

""

It will only take you seconds to get this sleek Bluetooth thermometer up and running.  It reports accurate readings on your smart phone up to 100 - 150 feet from its base.   From the moment your meat is placed in the oven (or grill) to the second it reaches the perfect temperature, the iGrill has your back.  Insert the temperature probe(s) into your meat and track the doneness of your food from your smart phone on the Weber iGrill app, without having to lift the lid.   It comes with 2 probes and you can order 2 more, for a total of 4!  And you can use it for everything including chicken, steak, burgers, pork roasts.  You'll love it for baking chicken because you'll know exactly when the chicken is done so it doesn’t get dried out.  It's the reason my dishes come out at just the right degree of done-ness time after time!

Fourth, don’t forget to huli the chicken.  And if you have an mesquite chips, now’s the time to bring them to the party.  In Hawaii they use kiawe (pron. key-AH-vey) wood, a tree from the mesquite family.  These are kiawe trees.  Don’t sweat it if you don’t have mesquite chips, it will be WONDERFUL even still.

Finally, feel free to invite us over.

Pin for Later

Easy Fried Rice

Or Make Now – Large Group & Family Size Recipes Below

Large Group

 

 

 

4.5 from 2 votes
Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huil Chicken for 100
Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
50 mins
Total Time
1 hr 20 mins
 
Like all my chicken grilling recipes, this recipe calls for basting at the end of grilling. That's especially important in this case because the sugar in the glaze will burn easily if you apply it any sooner. Also, don't increase the chili-garlic sauce amount. It is very potent.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cooking for a Crowd
Servings: 100 servings
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
For the Chicken Brine
  • 16 quarts water
  • 16 cups soy sauce
  • 16 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups minced garlic from a jar
  • 4 tablespoon grated fresh ginger from a jar
  • 100 chicken thighs
For the Chicken Glaze
  • 4 ½ (46 ounce) cans pineapple juice
  • 3 cups light brown sugar packed
  • 3 cups soy sauce
  • 3 cups ketchup
  • 3 cups rice vinegar
  • 1 1/3 cup minced garlic from a jar
  • ¾ cup grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
Special Equipment
  • 3 (approximately 54” x 29”) gas grills or 1 grill which will accommodate 100 thighs
Instructions
To Brine the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine water and soy sauce in large bowl. Set aside. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir into water/soy sauce mixture. Add chicken and refrigerate, covered, for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours. Go for the full 8 hours if at all possible, but no more than that or the chicken will get too salty.
To Make the Glaze
  1. In a medium sauce pan, combine the pineapple juice, sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili-garlic sauce. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium and let simmer until glaze is thick and syrupy about 20 to 25 minutes. This should result in about 12 cups of glaze.
To Grill the Chicken
  1. For a kettle grill: open bottom vents on grill. Light about 75 coals. When coals are covered with fine gray ash, spread evenly over bottom of grill. Set cooking grate in place and heat, about 5 minutes. For a gas grill: heat all burners to medium-low. Scrape and oil cooking grate.
  2. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange chicken skin-side up on grill. Grill, covered, until chicken is well browned on bottom and meat registers 120 degrees, about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip chicken skin-side down and continue to grill, covered, until skin is well browned and crisp and meat registers 170 to 175 degrees, 20 to 25 minutes longer. Apply glaze several minutes before removing chicken from grill.
MAKE AHEAD NOTE:
  1. You can make the chicken to this point up to 2 hours before serving. Transfer to a large disposable aluminum serving tray, cover with foil and hold in a 200 degree (warm) oven.

Recipe Notes

NOTE: Do not exceed approximately 36 - 40 thighs on a standard size gas grill. Many more than that and they will render so much fat that you can easily have a grill fire. Not good.

Family Size

 

 

4.5 from 2 votes
Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken - Family Size Recipe
Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
50 mins
Total Time
1 hr 20 mins
 

Like all my chicken grilling recipes, this recipe calls for basting right before you remove the chicken from the grill. That's especially important in this case because the sugar in the glaze will burn easily if you apply it any sooner than that. Adapted from Cooks Country (a WONDERFUL magazine).

Course: Main Course
Servings: 6 people
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
For the Chicken Brine
  • 2 quarts water
  • 2 cups soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 8 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 8 - 10 chicken thighs
For the Chicken Glaze
  • 3 (6 ounce) cans pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar , packed
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
Instructions
To Brine the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine water and soy sauce. Set aside. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir into water/soy sauce mixture. Add chicken and refrigerate, covered, for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours. Go for the full 8 hours if at all possible, but no more than that or the chicken will get too salty.

To Make the Glaze
  1. In a medium sauce pan, combine the pineapple juice, sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili-garlic sauce. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium and let simmer until glaze is thick and syrupy about 20 to 25 minutes. This should result in about 1 cup of glaze.
To Grill the Chicken
  1. For a kettle grill: open bottom vents on grill. Light about 75 coals. When coals are covered with fine gray ash, spread evenly over bottom of grill. Set cooking grate in place and heat, about 5 minutes. For gas grill: heat all burners to medium-low. Scrape and oil cooking grate.

  2. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange chicken skin-side up on grill. Grill, covered, until chicken is well browned on bottom and meat registers 120 degrees, about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip chicken skin-side down and continue to grill, covered, until skin is well browned and crisp. The meat should register 170 to 175 degrees, about 20 to 25 minutes longer.  Apply glaze several minutes before removing chicken from grill.

MAKE AHEAD NOTE:
  1. You can make the chicken to this point up to 2 hours before serving. Transfer to a large disposable aluminum serving tray, cover with foil and hold in a 200 degree (warm) oven.

 

 

Aloha Dreams

Welcome to Aloha Dreams!

I'm so glad you dropped by.  I'm Betsy.  Here you'll find my favorite fabulous, trusted recipes - everything from delicious, quick meals for your family to wonderful classics made easy.

I'm also here to help you with large group recipes from 20 to 200.  So next opportunity you get to cook for a large group - Say 'Yes!'  Then relax. I've got your back.

Ever wished you could build your dream home? How about building your dream home in a tropical paradise?  Join me, room by room, as we design and build a fabulous dream home in Hawaii!

Explore Aloha Dreams

Things to do Big Island of Hawaii
Dream Home Bathroom

EXPLORE

If you're planning a vacation to Hawaii, I've got you covered on the very best places to go!   From many amazing restaurants to incredible adventures in the surf and on land, this is your go-to source for unique and exciting things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.  Or just take a Virtual Vacation!!    Let's go!

SAY YES!

If you've been asked to cook for a large group activity, be it a Girl's Camp or a Graduation Party, say Yes!  I'm here to help.  From Menus to Game Plans to Recipes, I'll help you keep on schedule and turn out amazingly delicious food if you're cooking for a crowd!  My recipes are tested and trusted.    Let's cook! 

AHONUI

Ever wished you could build your dream home?  Like amazing house design and home building ideas?  Me too!  Join me as I design and build a home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Follow along while I design each room. Enjoy a front row seat for the entire amazing construction process.  Let's play!

PARTY

Would you like to throw a Luau, but not sure where to start?   Want to know how to build a tiki bar and roast a pig?  Here's everything you need to have a luau.  How about a Christmas Feast or even a fabulous dinner for your neighborhood supper club?  You've come to the right place.    Let's party!

Auntie Ahulani’s Amazingly Good Mac Salad

Auntie Ahulani’s Amazingly Good Mac Salad

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Auntie Ahulani’s Amazingly Good Mac Salad recipe

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Are you ready for flaming torches, tropical drinks, amazing roast pig, Huli Huli chicken and all things tiki??  The sound of the Hawaii War Chant is in the air and the leis are lined up.  It is SO on.  In just under 5 weeks… WE ARE HAVING A LUAU!

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Join me over the next month as I post some fabulous Luau Recipes – everything from Beach Baby Pudding Cups to Huli Huli chicken – perfect summer recipes for your next barbecue, cookout or family reunion.  We’ll be starting with one of my personal favorites – Auntie Ahulani’s Amazingly Good Mac Salad.

I received this recipe, along with many others, from Auntie Ahulani, a wonderful Hawaiian lady.   At 76 she is still going strong and, if you’re looking for her, is likely found in her tiny retro kitchen fussing over a bubbling pot of beautiful sun-orange lilikoi jelly. Small but feisty and very kind, Auntie Ahulani was quick to offer to share some of her most amazing recipes with me as long as I would pass them on.  I’ll be sharing them with you in the coming months. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.  Here is Aunti Ahulani’s Amazing Good Mac Salad recipe.

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Authentic Hawaiian Mac Salad is ridiculously simple. In fact, a true Hawaiian macaroni salad is basically just macaroni, carrot, mayonnaise, salt and pepper.  If you’re feeling frisky you can add celery, extra onion, potatoes, crab, or peas.  But don’t even think of mixing in ham or pineapple – it’s just not authentic.  This version omits the carrot.

Hawaiian Cole Slaw

Besides being true to the add-in options, there are 2 main things that make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad authentic:  lots of mayonnaise (which is partly why it’s so wonderful) and soft plump macaroni.  Actually the two go hand in hand.  Hawaiians cook their macaroni until it’s very soft. There’s a reason for this. It enables the macaroni to soak up more of the wonderful dressing.  In Hawaii it’s all about the mayonnaise.

And you don’t want to use just any brand of mayonnaise.  It has to be Hellman’s (sold as Best Foods to our friends west of the Rockies). That’s it.  Trust me, it just won’t taste right with any other brand.  And don’t hold back on the mayonnaise amount.  I know it sounds like a lot, but the creamy delicious results will speak for themselves.

 

Luau Recipes

Have you ever had a Hawaiian-style plate lunch?   Macaroni salad is a staple of the Hawaii-style plate lunch.

A plate lunch is great meal and consists of a scoop of mayonnaise-rich mac salad along with a couple mounds of white rice to mix into some huli huli chicken or teriyaki chicken with a sweet-and-tangy shoyu, sugar, garlic, ginger marinade.  This mac salad is right at home in the mix.

 

Pin for Later

Luau Recipes

Or Make Now

Let’s get started!

Family Size

 

5 from 4 votes
Macaroni Salad
Auntie Ahulani’s Macaroni Salad
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 
A classic authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. Perfect for your next BBQ! An AlohaDreams.com recipe.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 15 servings
Author: Auntie Ahulani
Ingredients
For the macaroni
  • 1/2 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 tablespoon salt
For the Dressing
  • 1 1/2 cups Hellman’s mayonnaise or Best mayonnaise
  • 1/2 small onion diced
  • 8 ounces imitation crab chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas cooked
  • 1 stalk celery chopped
  • 2 large hard boiled eggs chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 green onion chopped
Instructions
  1. In a very large pot bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add 1 tablespoon salt and pasta. Cook until soft, about 13 - 15 minutes (you don't want al dente pasta for this). Drain pasta and set aside.

  2. Meanwhile in a large bowl combine onions, crab, peas, celery, eggs, salt and pepper. Mix in the mayonnaise.

  3. Gently stir in the cooked and drained macaroni.
MAKE AHEAD NOTE:
  1. Can, and should, be made at least 4 hours in advance and preferably up to 1 day for the flavors to marry. Cover and refrigerate. Serve sprinkled with the chopped green onion.

Large Group

 

5 from 4 votes
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Auntie Ahulani’s Macaroni Salad for a Crowd
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 

A classic authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad.  Note: After multiple testing and considerable feedback, this recipe will reliably feed 30 as part of a buffet or multi-course dinner.  Makes 110 ounces or 30 3.6 ounce servings.  An AlohaDreams.com recipe.

Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Cooking for a Crowd
Servings: 30 servings
Author: Auntie Ahulani
Ingredients
For the macaroni
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon salt
For the Dressing
  • 3 cups Hellman’s mayonnaise (or Best mayonnaise)
  • 1 small onion , diced (or 1/2 larger onion)
  • 1 pound imitation crab , chopped
  • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas , cooked
  • 2 stalks celery , chopped
  • 4 hard boiled eggs , chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 green onions chopped
Instructions
  1. In a very large pot bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add 1 tablespoon salt and pasta. Cook until soft, about 13 - 15 minutes (you don't want al dente pasta for this).  Drain pasta and return to pot.

  2. Meanwhile in a large bowl combine onions, crab, peas, celery, eggs, salt and pepper. Mix in the mayonnaise.

  3. Gently stir in the cooked and drained macaroni.
MAKE AHEAD NOTE:
  1. Can, and should, be made at least 4 hours in advance and preferably up to 1 day for the flavors to marry.  Cover and refrigerate.  Serve sprinkled with the chopped green onion.

 

Check Back Soon for updates from our 2019 Luau

Here’s some other fantastic recipes to put you in a Hawaii frame of mind.

Huli Huli Chicken

This is without a doubt one of the Best. Chicken. Recipes. Ever. We fixed this for our luau last year. I figured out of the 140 guests there had to be some folks who didn't like roast pig. So we made 70 pieces of Huli Huli Chicken to supplement the roast pig. Turns out no one doesn't like roast pig. But NO ONE wanted to skip the chicken either.

Big Island Fish Tacos

Missing summer? Let these easy, fantastic fish tacos transport you to lazy days on the beach. Even better, they are a hip-friendly choice after the holiday season.

Aloha Dreams

Welcome to Aloha Dreams!

I'm so glad you dropped by.  I'm Betsy.  Here you'll find my favorite fabulous, trusted recipes - everything from delicious, quick meals for your family to wonderful classics made easy.

I'm also here to help you with large group recipes from 20 to 200.  So next opportunity you get to cook for a large group - Say 'Yes!'  Then relax. I've got your back.

Ever wished you could build your dream home? How about building your dream home in a tropical paradise?  Join me, room by room, as we design and build a fabulous dream home in Hawaii!

Explore Aloha Dreams

Things to do Big Island of Hawaii
Dream Home Bathroom

EXPLORE

If you're planning a vacation to Hawaii, I've got you covered on the very best places to go!   From many amazing restaurants to incredible adventures in the surf and on land, this is your go-to source for unique and exciting things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.  Or just take a Virtual Vacation!!    Let's go!

SAY YES!

If you've been asked to cook for a large group activity, be it a Girl's Camp or a Graduation Party, say Yes!  I'm here to help.  From Menus to Game Plans to Recipes, I'll help you keep on schedule and turn out amazingly delicious food if you're cooking for a crowd!  My recipes are tested and trusted.    Let's cook! 

AHONUI

Ever wished you could build your dream home?  Like amazing house design and home building ideas?  Me too!  Join me as I design and build a home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Follow along while I design each room. Enjoy a front row seat for the entire amazing construction process.  Let's play!

PARTY

Would you like to throw a Luau, but not sure where to start?   Want to know how to build a tiki bar and roast a pig?  Here's everything you need to have a luau.  How about a Christmas Feast or even a fabulous dinner for your neighborhood supper club?  You've come to the right place.    Let's party!

Hawaiian Beach Club Coleslaw

Hawaiian Beach Club Coleslaw

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Hawaiian Beach Club Coleslaw

It’s fun to serve something and have someone call it extraordinary.  And that’s exactly the response I received when I handed Jeff (who actually IS a fairly un-biased critic) a plate of fish tacos with this (easy) wonderful Hawaiian Beach Club Coleslaw.  And I got the same response AGAIN with a pile of Slow Cooker Kalua Pork and this coleslaw on a buttery crunchy toasted bun.

Hawaiian Coleslaw

Jeff had just finished lunch about an hour before, but I needed a taste tester so I handed him this anyway and asked for his opinion. Never one to shirk from a duty, Jeff threw himself on that unexploded grenade and took a bite.

 

And then took another bite.

 

And then said… “extraordinary.”

And then proceeded to finish the whole thing and followed me back to the kitchen, looking around expectantly for some extra bits that just might have been left laying around.

Yep.  I think we have a winner.

Hawaiian Cole Slaw

This Hawaiian Beach Club Cole Slaw is inspired by the Lava Lava Beach Club on the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.   If you’re ever on the Big Island you should drop by.  It’s a wonderfully relaxed place to sit with your toes in the warm sand.  Can’t you just picture yourself here…

Hawaiian Cole Slaw

The slaw is great on a Kalua Pork sandwich or on fried fish tacos (I’ll also be posting this one shortly too).  You can make it with packaged coleslaw, like I did with my wonderful pulled pork, or shave some green and red cabbage and omit the carrots – and use it on fried fish tacos.  Either way, it’s fabulous.

And if you’re looking for an OUT OF THIS WORLD summer activity – it’s also a perfect dish for a summer luau. While you’re a it, take a minute and click here to see just how much fun a Summer Luau Party can be!!   (And just how EASY it is to pull together with my recipes.)

Luau Recipes

Or, if you simply would like a virtual romantic interlude in Hawaii, try one of these amazing 10 minute Virtual Vacations.

Luau Recipes
Aloha Dreams

Welcome to Aloha Dreams!

I'm so glad you dropped by.  I'm Betsy.  Here you'll find my favorite fabulous, trusted recipes - everything from delicious, quick meals for your family to wonderful classics made easy.

I'm also here to help you with large group recipes from 20 to 200.  So next opportunity you get to cook for a large group - Say 'Yes!'  Then relax. I've got your back.

Ever wished you could build your dream home? How about building your dream home in a tropical paradise?  Join me, room by room, as we design and build a fabulous dream home in Hawaii!

Pin for Later

Tropical Summer Salad

Or Make Now

Let’s get started!

 

5 from 8 votes
Hawaiian Cole Slaw
Hawaiian Beachcomber Coleslaw
Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

1.5 ounce servings (4 cups = 9 ounces)

Course: Side Dish
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons honey
For the Slaw
  • 1 cup pineapple diced into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 1 (14 ounce) package coleslaw cabbage mix (or 1 head green and 1 head red cabbage
  • 1 cup mango diced into 1/2 inch cubes
Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl combine all dressing ingredients.  

  2. Chop pineapple and mango into 1/2 inch cubes and add to the dressing.  

MAKE AHEAD NOTE - Can be made to this point up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated.
  1. When ready to serve, if making your own slaw, shave thin slices off the cabbage heads.  Otherwise, toss prepared coleslaw cabbage mix with dressing.  Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Recipe Notes

This is very good on its own, and EXTRAORDINARY on a Kalua Pork sandwich with a toasted bun.

 

Here’s some other fantastic recipes to put you in a Hawaii frame of mind.

Huli Huli Chicken

This is without a doubt one of the Best. Chicken. Recipes. Ever. We fixed this for our luau last year. I figured out of the 140 guests there had to be some folks who didn't like roast pig. So we made 70 pieces of Huli Huli Chicken to supplement the roast pig. Turns out no one doesn't like roast pig. But NO ONE wanted to skip the chicken either.

Big Island Fish Tacos

Missing summer? Let these easy, fantastic fish tacos transport you to lazy days on the beach. Even better, they are a hip-friendly choice after the holiday season.

Explore Aloha Dreams

Things to do Big Island of Hawaii
Dream Home Bathroom

EXPLORE

If you're planning a vacation to Hawaii, I've got you covered on the very best places to go!   From many amazing restaurants to incredible adventures in the surf and on land, this is your go-to source for unique and exciting things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.  Or just take a Virtual Vacation!!    Let's go!

SAY YES!

If you've been asked to cook for a large group activity, be it a Girl's Camp or a Graduation Party, say Yes!  I'm here to help.  From Menus to Game Plans to Recipes, I'll help you keep on schedule and turn out amazingly delicious food if you're cooking for a crowd!  My recipes are tested and trusted.    Let's cook! 

AHONUI

Ever wished you could build your dream home?  Like amazing house design and home building ideas?  Me too!  Join me as I design and build a home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Follow along while I design each room. Enjoy a front row seat for the entire amazing construction process.  Let's play!

PARTY

Would you like to throw a Luau, but not sure where to start?   Want to know how to build a tiki bar and roast a pig?  Here's everything you need to have a luau.  How about a Christmas Feast or even a fabulous dinner for your neighborhood supper club?  You've come to the right place.    Let's party!

Tropical Fruit Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing

Tropical Fruit Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing

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Tropical Fruit Salad with a Lime Ginger Dressing

Tropical Fruit Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing

So tell me, does this look good, or what?  It is!!!  This is a fabulous salad for a large group or you can make it for your family.  The recipe is very easy.  The dressing can be brought together in minutes made the day before.  And, with the exception of the kiwi, the fruit can also be prepped the day before.   An hour prior to serving simply peel and slice the kiwi and add it to the rest of the fruit.  Drizzle the dressing over, gently toss to coat and serve.

And the taste?  Really, really good.  The zesty lime and ginger go great with the tropical fruit.  It’s not too heavy, and it provides a wonder sweet glistening drizzle.   If you can find star fruit, it would be fun to add one of those, sliced, to garnish the bowl.  This is a great dish to accompany the breakfast tacos.

Tropical Fruit Salad with a Lime Ginger Dressing

Pin for Later

Tropical Fruit Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing

Or Make Now

Large Group

Fruit Salad with a Wonderful Lime Ginger Sauce for 40
Makes 40 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup)
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
For the Dressing
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2/3 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 teaspoon fresh ginger finely grated
For the Fruit
  • 2 (23.5 ounce) bottles mandarin oranges - drained!! (5 cups)
  • 8 large mangoes peeled and cubed into 1/2 inch chunks (6 cups)
  • 2 fresh pineapple - peeled and cored (49 cups)
  • 2 quarts strawberries - hulled and quartered (8 cups)
  • 12 kiwis - peeled and sliced (4 cups)
Equipment
  • 1 micro-plane grater
Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, powdered sugar, and ginger until all the powdered sugar is dissolved. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  2. Cut fruit into bite-size pieces and combine in a large bowl. NOTE: If prepping the fruit the day before, don't cut up the kiwi.
MAKE AHEAD NOTE: Can be made up to this point up to 1 day in advance, keeping the dressing seperate. Cover both and refrigerate.
  1. Up to two hours prior to serving, peel and slice the kiwi. Add to the salad. Gently stir to distribute.
  2. Immediately prior to serving pour dressing over fruit, toss to uniformly coat and serve.
Recipe Notes

Did you know ginger can be stored up to 3 months in the freezer. Just peel it, wrap in a freezer proof bag and freeze. When ready to use, you can easily grate it with a micro-plane grater.

Family Size

 

Fruit Salad with a Wonderful Lime Ginger Sauce
Prep Time
30 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 

Makes 10 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup)

Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/3 cup pineapple juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger finely grated
For the Fruit
  • 1/2 (23.5 ounce) bottle mandarin oranges drained!! (1 1/4 cups)
  • 2 large mangoes peeled and cubed into 1/2 inch chunks (3 cups)
  • 1/2 fresh pineapple peeled and cored (2 cups )
  • 1/2 quart strawberries hulled and quartered (2 cups)
  • 3 kiwis peeled and sliced (1 cup)
Equipment
  • 1 micro-plane grater
Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, powdered sugar, and ginger until all the powdered sugar is dissolved. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

  2. Cut fruit into bite-size pieces and combine in a large bowl.  NOTE: If prepping the fruit the day before, don't cut up the kiwi.

MAKE AHEAD NOTE: Can be made up to this point up to 1 day in advance, keeping the dressing seperate. Cover both and refrigerate.
  1. Up to two hours prior to serving, peel and slice the kiwi.  Add to the salad.  Gently stir to distribute.

  2. Immediately prior to serving pour dressing over fruit, toss to uniformly coat and serve.
Recipe Notes

Did you know ginger can be stored up to 3 months in the freezer. Just peel it, wrap in a freezer proof bag and freeze. When ready to use, you can easily grate it with a micro-plane grater.

 

Aloha Dreams

Welcome to Aloha Dreams!

I'm so glad you dropped by.  I'm Betsy.  Here you'll find my favorite fabulous, trusted recipes - everything from delicious, quick meals for your family to wonderful classics made easy.

I'm also here to help you with large group recipes from 20 to 200.  So next opportunity you get to cook for a large group - Say 'Yes!'  Then relax. I've got your back.

Ever wished you could build your dream home? How about building your dream home in a tropical paradise?  Join me, room by room, as we design and build a fabulous dream home in Hawaii!

Want more fun recipes for a large group ?

Crunchy Gooey S’mors Bars

If you want all the fabulous flavors and texture of s’mores in a super easy s’mores bar, these are way better than cooking over a campfire. Great for your family as a snack over the Thanksgiving holiday or give away for Christmas gifts if they last that long.

Best Apple Cake

This amazing apple cake combines sweet juicy fresh Honey Crisp apples with brown sugar and toasted pecans for an unbelievably moist, sweet, apple-y, crunchy desert you don’t want to miss! What a great way to welcome in fall.

Asian Lettuce Wrap for a Crowd

If you’re looking for a healthy recipe for your family but are tired of salad, these Pork & Ginger Lettuce Wraps are for you. They are really easy and really fast, on the table within 30 minutes from start to finish. But the best part of all is they are REALLY good! Whip up a batch for your family this week, they’ll LOVE them.

Sausage, Egg and Cheese Sliders for a Crowd

You'll love this sweet and salty breakfast. It will have your house smelling so good your family will be waiting at the table, at least mine was! A few simple ingredients and a few minutes in the kitchen give you an extraordinary breakfast big enough to feed a crowd.

Ham and Cheese Sliders

These mini Ham & Cheese Sliders are easy to make and your family will love them! Whip some up this week. They will be DEVOURED faster than you can imagine.

Best-Ever Chunky Chicken Salad

Your whole family will love this Best-Ever Chunky Chicken Salad recipe. It's hands down the perfect go-to chicken salad for sandwiches for a quick delicious lunch or a light supper. It takes hardly any time to pull together. The sweetness from the grapes always makes it a favorite with kids! Crowd version included, too!

 

Big Island Fish Tacos

Big Island Fish Tacos

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Big Island Fish Tacos

This is about to become your new favorite fish taco.  Scratch that – your new favorite taco!  It’s an explosion of flavors and textures – the tangy lime juice, the creamy avocado, the cool sauce and the savory fish.  (I shouldn’t write these when I haven’t had lunch).  But, man these tacos are good.  They’re easy too.   All you have to do is round yourself up some fresh fish.  In Hawaii they’ll use Opakapaka.  Isn’t that a great word?  But for the rest of us, cod works wonderfully.  You can either warm the tortillas briefly in a pan or fry them in a little oil.  Either way these are ridiculously easy and tasty.

 

Fish Tacos

They’re a great quick and delicious dinner.  Tonight!

 

Big Island Fish Tacos
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
25 mins
 

This will become your new favorite Fish Taco recipe.  The sauce is fabulous!

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 18 tacos (6 people - 3 tacos each)
Ingredients
For the Garnish
  • 3 limes cut into 6 wedges each
  • 3 avocados cut into cubes
  • 1/8 head red cabbage sliced very thin
  • 1 white onion sliced very thin
For the Sauce
  • 1 lime (3 tablespoons)
  • 8 ounces sour cream (1 cup)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann's or Best)
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayanne pepper
For the tacos
  • 18 corn tortillas (6 inch size)
  • 2 pounds fish skinless, white flaky fish, such as cod
  • cooking oil
Instructions
Prep the Garnish
  1. Cut 3 limes into 6 wedges each

    Cut the avocados into chunks

    Slice the onion into thin strips

    Slice the cabbage into thin strips

    Set the garnishes aside

Make the Sauce
  1. Add the sauce ingredients to a medium bowl. Whisk until combined.

Prep the Tacos
  1. Place several tortilla shells in a large skillet over medium high heat for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, or until browned in spots.  Alternatively, you can fry them in a small frying pan with 3/4 cup of oil (just enough to cover bottom of the pan to 1/4 inch), then drain on paper towels.


  2. Pat the fish dry on both sides. Season with salt and pepper and a light shake of cayenne pepper.  Liberally coat a grill pan or skillet with oil.  Heat pan over medium-high heat until hot.  Place fish in pan.

  3. Cook fish without moving until the underside of the fish is golden brown, about 3 minutes.  Flip fish and cook the other side until the inside of the fish is white and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes more depending on thickness.  You can cut into the fish to check for desired doneness.    The fish may break apart as you're flipping it and that's fine.  When done transfer fish to a plate or cutting board.  Break the fish up into 1/2 inch pieces.

  4. Divide the fish among the tacos.  Top each taco with the avocado pieces, cabbage and onion to your liking.

  5. Drizzle over the sauce.  Serve with lime slices.

 

Want More Fabulous Quick & Easy ?

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd

You’ll love this Delicious Easy Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole. They don’t get any quicker or easier than this! The great thing about this dish is that it comes together easily in 20 minutes night before and is simply the best Breakfast Casserole I’ve ever had. It’s the perfect Breakfast Casserole for your Crowd this holiday season. I’ve also included a smaller version which serves 12.

Asian Lettuce Wrap for a Crowd

If you’re looking for a healthy recipe for your family but are tired of salad, these Pork & Ginger Lettuce Wraps are for you. They are really easy and really fast, on the table within 30 minutes from start to finish. But the best part of all is they are REALLY good! Whip up a batch for your family this week, they’ll LOVE them.

Sausage, Egg and Cheese Sliders for a Crowd

You'll love this sweet and salty breakfast. It will have your house smelling so good your family will be waiting at the table, at least mine was! A few simple ingredients and a few minutes in the kitchen give you an extraordinary breakfast big enough to feed a crowd.

Ham and Cheese Sliders

These mini Ham & Cheese Sliders are easy to make and your family will love them! Whip some up this week. They will be DEVOURED faster than you can imagine.

Aloha Dreams

Welcome to Aloha Dreams!

I'm so glad you dropped by.  I'm Betsy.  Here you'll find my favorite fabulous, trusted recipes - everything from delicious, quick meals for your family to wonderful classics made easy.

I'm also here to help you with large group recipes from 20 to 200.  So next opportunity you get to cook for a large group - Say 'Yes!'  Then relax. I've got your back.

Ever wished you could build your dream home? How about building your dream home in a tropical paradise?  Join me, room by room, as we design and build a fabulous dream home in Hawaii!

Tropical Salad

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