Rice Hawaiian
A tropical-inspired dessert combining sweet pineapple, shredded coconut, and whipped cream with rice for a creamy, fruity treat perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed pineapple, lemon juice, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Fold the pineapple mixture into the whipped cream.
- Fold in cooked rice and shredded coconut.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you want more crunch, add chopped nuts or seeds. Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference, as it balances the sweetness of the pineapple. Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rice Hawaiian as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or fish, making it perfect for summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Grape Delight Salad for a fruity spread. Consider topping it with additional shredded coconut or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. For a delightful dessert option, serve it alongside Noodle Kugel for a unique twist on traditional pairings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the dish. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent overheating, as this dish is best served chilled. However, you can also enjoy it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Hawaiian contains roughly 261 calories, with 5g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1525mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice. Fresh pineapple will give a firmer texture and a more vibrant flavor. Adjust the lemon juice slightly to maintain the balance of sweetness and acidity.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Rice Hawaiian recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal by-products. For a vegan option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dessert that fits a vegetarian diet.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare Rice Hawaiian a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for parties. Just follow the recipe, assemble it in the pan, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before chilling in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop fully and makes serving easy on the day of your event.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).