27 Easy Hawaiian Recipes
Exploring Hawaiian food ideas is now easier than ever with these 27 Hawaiian Recipes. From traditional dishes like lau lau and lomi lomi salmon to local favorites such as Hawaiian pizza and garlic shrimp, this collection brings the vibrant, tropical flavors of the islands right to your kitchen.
Featuring main ingredients like fresh pineapple, sweet potatoes, and brown sugar, these recipes offer a delightful mix of sweet and savory tastes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Perfect for creating a Hawaiian party or simply enjoying a delicious meal, these easy recipes are sure to become your new favorites. Whether you’re planning a classic plate lunch with chicken thighs and mac salad or experimenting with pork chops and sesame seeds, you’ll find something for every occasion.
So fire up your grill or get out your Instant Pot, and start cooking these authentic Hawaiian dishes. Share the aloha with friends and family by serving up these tasty treats and enjoy the best things Hawaiian cuisine has to offer!

If you want even more sides to keep in your recipe box, stop by and take a look at this massive list of 100 side dish recipes!
While a trip to Hawaii may be out of the question right now, these Hawaiian-inspired recipes will have you dreaming of sitting on a warm beach with your toes in the sand, no tan needed!
Flavors of the Islands…
From Hawaiian coleslaw and pineapple salsa to mac salad and sweet Hawaiian rolls, you’ll find plenty of delicious food ideas to complement any main course.
These foods bring the best parts of traditional Hawaiian food right to your table, offering a range of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and refreshing.
Imagine enjoying a tropical cocktail paired with authentic Hawaiian recipes like fried egg on sticky rice, or a classic Hawaiian dish featuring sweet flavor profiles enhanced by lime juice and sesame oil.
These recipes aren’t just about taste; they create a special place in your culinary repertoire, perfect for entertaining or adding some island flair to your everyday meals.
So go ahead and explore these popular recipes, and let every meal feel like a mini vacation to the Pacific Islands. Your family and friends will be thrilled with these tasty treats, transporting them straight to paradise.
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What type of ingredients should you have on hand?
Pacific Island food is fresh, light, and typically has tons of flavor. Many of the recipes I have listed below call for ingredients that embody the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. Here are some key ingredients you should keep on hand:
- Pineapple and Pineapple Juice: These add a sweet flavor and are staples in many Hawaiian food recipes, from marinades to desserts.
- Soy Sauce and BBQ Sauce: Essential for achieving that savory and slightly tangy taste in dishes like shoyu chicken and Hawaiian beef patty.
- Garlic: A versatile ingredient that enhances the depth of flavors in both traditional and modern Hawaiian dishes.
- White Rice and Sticky Rice: Often used as a base for many Hawaiian meals, providing a neutral backdrop to highlight more vibrant flavors.
- Lime Juice: Adds a refreshing zing to both savory and sweet dishes, balancing out richer flavors.
- Sesame Oil and Sesame Seeds: Used in various recipes to give a nutty, aromatic quality.
- Local Favorites: Hawaiian sweet rolls, passion fruit, fried egg, and brown gravy often make appearances in local food and favorite Hawaiian recipes.
These simple ingredients serve as the foundation for creating a wide array of easy recipes that bring the taste of Hawaii to your home. From Hawaiian coconut pudding to lomi lomi salmon, having these ingredients on hand means you’re always ready to whip up a delicious, island-inspired meal.
So stock up and get ready to enjoy some of the best places and flavors that Hawaiian cuisine has to offer!
Delicious Hawaiian Recipes
You won't have to plan a vacation to your favorite island to enjoy these 27 Easy Hawaiian Recipes including main dishes, desserts, side dishes, and more!
Instant Pot Kalua Pork
Time to dust off that Instant Pot to make this easy and delicious Instant Pot Kaluha Pork from Simply Happy Foodie. This tender, savory pork is infused with a smoky flavor and can be served over tortillas, rice, mashed potatoes, or even in a Hawaiian-style sandwich. It's versatile and perfect for any meal!
Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe
This Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken is as delicious as it sounds and even easier to make. With a combination of juicy chicken thighs, tangy pineapple, and a savory soy sauce base, this dish captures the essence of tropical flavors. It's a quick, flavorful dinner option that will transport your taste buds straight to Hawaii.
Hawaiian Blue Mocktail
Enjoy this 3-ingredient Non-Alcoholic Hawaiian Mocktail Recipe anytime without traveling to the islands. Combining fresh pineapple juice, coconut water, and a splash of lime, this refreshing drink offers all the tropical flavors you crave. Perfect for a summer day or any time you need a taste of the tropics.
Vegan Tuna Sushi Bowl (with Spicy Tomato "Tuna!)
This Vegan Tuna Sushi Bowl is packed full of fresh flavors including Nori, Sriracha, ginger, and more. Made with marinated tofu or chickpeas as a tuna substitute, it offers a satisfying texture and rich taste. You won't even miss the meat with this vibrant, healthy, and delicious bowl.
Hawaiian Main Dish Recipes
Whether you are throwing a Hawaiian themed Luau or just feel like eating Hawaiian flavors, these Hawaiian Main Dish Recipes will not disappoint. From succulent Kalua pork to tangy Loco Moco, each recipe is designed to bring the authentic flavors of Hawaii to your table, making every meal a mini tropical getaway.
Hawaiian Lava Flow Tropical Drinks for Two
If you are making a Hawaiian themed meal, what better beverage to serve than these Hawaiian Lava Flow Tropical Drinks from Zona Cooks?
This recipe serves two but can easily be doubled or tripled if needed. Combining coconut, pineapple, and strawberries, this vibrant drink is both beautiful and delicious, perfect for any gathering.
Healthy Roasted Hawaiian Medley
Pineapple, peppers, and onions along with Hawaiian-style seasonings come together to make a hearty, yet Healthy Roasted Hawaiian Medley!
This dish combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of roasted vegetables, creating a balanced and delicious option that's perfect as a side or a main course.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Serve this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe on its own or as a side dish for any Hawaiian-style meal. It's light, creamy, and delicious!
Made with elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, and a touch of vinegar, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to more robust dishes, making it a versatile party favorite.
Pineapple Shrimp Luau for a Tropical Island Dinner at Home
Chef Dennis knows his way around the kitchen, and this Pineapple Shrimp Luau is no exception.
Fresh shrimp and pineapple come together in a fantastic light Hawaiian dish that's both sweet and savory.
Perfect for a summer meal or a themed gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Hawaiian Bubble Bread Recipe
If you love traditional monkey bread, this Hawaiian Monkey Bread is a definite must-try!
Infused with tropical flavors like coconut and pineapple, this pull-apart bread is sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible.
It's an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert that brings a taste of the islands to your table.
Nori-wrapped Mochiko Chicken
Who says chicken is boring? This Nori Wrapped Mochiko Chicken is not only flavorful but will also have guests coming back for seconds!
Marinated in mochiko flour and soy sauce, then wrapped in nori, this chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, offering a unique twist on a classic dish.
Hawaiian Side Dishes for Pork
Struggling with Hawaiian side dishes for pork? These Hawaiian side dishes for pork would even be great with chicken. We won't tell!
From classic Hawaiian coleslaw to grilled pineapple, these sides offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that complement both meats beautifully.
Hawaiian Chili Pepper Water-Traditional Hawaiian Condiment
Looking for more flavor in your Hawaiian dishes? Homemade Hawaiian Chili Pepper Water is easy to make and store.
Use it on anything you would a hot sauce: from rice, fish, chicken, eggs, stews, to vegetables. With its spicy kick and tangy undertones, it adds a vibrant touch to any dish.
Easy Hawaiian Side Dish Recipes
Side dishes are always some of my favorites. They can be simple yet the flavor can be complex and complement any meal they are served with.
These Hawaiian side dishes will take any meal up a notch, featuring tropical ingredients like coconut, pineapple, and sweet potatoes that bring a burst of island flair.
Air Fryer Huli Huli Chicken
Use your air fryer to make this Huli Huli Chicken from Two Sleevers. Marinated in a savory-sweet sauce and cooked to perfection, it's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve with a side salad or starch to complete the meal, making it both convenient and delicious for any night of the week.
Hawaiian Tortilla Roll Ups for Lunch
Love hame and pineapple pizza? Why not try ham and pineapple in a wrap with these yummy Hawaiian Inspired Tortilla Ham Roll-Ups!
Easy Hawaiian Pork Kabobs
We love grilling and these Pork Tenderloin Hawaiian Kabobs are no exception. Bring the taste of the islands home!
Pohole Salad
If you want a 100% authentic Hawaiian side dish, this Pohole Salad is where it's at. Pohole (pronounced poh-HOH-lay) is an edible plant often found on the East side of Maui.
Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl Recipe with Ponzu Sauce
Craving seafood? This Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl is light, fresh, and full of Hawaiian flavors!
Hawaiian Butter Mochi Cake
Now you've got lots of Hawaiian meals to choose from, you need dessert! This Hawaiian Butter Mochi Cake will end any Hawaiian meal perfectly.
Hawaiian Salsa Recipe
Fresh, bright, colorful, and delicious, this Hawaiian Salsa Recipe is tasty with tortilla chips or served on the side of grilled chicken or pork.
Frosty Hawaiian Mocktail
Frosty, blue, and fruity, this Frosty Hawaiian Mocktail is perfect to enjoy for any special occasion.
The Best Hawaiian Pork Tenderloin
Slow-cooked pork, pineapple slices, soy sauce, sriracha, and garlic all come together in this Hawaiian Pork Tenderloin Recipe.
Incredible Hawaiian Pulled Pork and Rice
I love slow cooker recipes. You just throw everything in, turn it on and let it go! This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pulled Pork recipe is easy and delicious over rice!
Side Dishes for Hawaiian Sliders
Making Hawaiian Style Sliders? Let these Side Dishes for Hawaiian Sliders complete your meal!
Easy and Delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sliders
Let your Instant do all the work with these Easy and Delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sliders. Just cook, shred and serve!
Fun and Festive Hawaiian Luau Pretzel Rods
How cute these Fun and Festive Hawaiian Luau Pretzel Rods? Perfect for a Luau or Hawaiian themed party!
Hawaiian Side Dishes for Pork Recipes and Resources:
Pick up these affiliate resources from Amazon to make even more delicious Hawaiian side dishes!
- Easy Tropical Cooking: Delicious Caribbean, Island, and Hawaiian Recipes
- Over and Back: Sides – 4 pc. Porcelain Bowl Set
- The Little Hawaii Tastes & Flavors Cookbook
