This salad strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and tangy. The pineapple adds a burst of tropical freshness, while the teriyaki dressing ties everything together with rich umami flavor.
It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and ideal for warm-weather meals. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a potluck favorite, or a colorful dinner side, this recipe delivers both taste and presentation.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh pineapple chunks mixed salad greens red bell pepper, thinly sliced cucumber, sliced carrots, shredded red cabbage, thinly sliced green onions, chopped sesame seeds grilled chicken or shrimp (optional)
For the teriyaki dressing: teriyaki sauce rice vinegar sesame oil honey fresh ginger, grated garlic, minced
Directions
In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. Set aside.
Prepare the vegetables by washing and slicing them as directed.
In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, cucumber, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and green onions.
If adding protein, grill the chicken or shrimp until fully cooked, then slice and allow to cool slightly before adding to the salad.
Drizzle the teriyaki dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time (if adding protein): 10 to 12 minutes Total time: Approximately 30 minutes
Variations
For a vegetarian version, add crispy tofu or edamame instead of meat.
Swap mixed greens for spinach, romaine, or napa cabbage for a different texture.
Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
For a spicy kick, mix a small amount of sriracha or chili flakes into the dressing.
You can also grill the pineapple slices briefly to enhance their natural sweetness and add a subtle smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
If the salad is already dressed, it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain crispness.
Reheating is not necessary, but if you’ve added grilled protein, you may gently warm it before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but fresh pineapple offers better texture and flavor. If using canned, drain it well.
Is this salad gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free teriyaki sauce.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What protein works best with this salad?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even thinly sliced steak pair beautifully with the flavors.
Can I meal prep this salad?
Yes, keep the dressing separate and assemble just before eating for best results.
How do I keep the salad from becoming soggy?
Add the dressing right before serving and store components separately if preparing ahead.
Can I add nuts?
Yes, sliced almonds or chopped cashews add a nice crunch.
What greens are best for this recipe?
Mixed greens, romaine, spinach, or napa cabbage all work well.
Is the dressing very sweet?
The sweetness can be adjusted by reducing the honey or adding more rice vinegar.
Can I serve this as a main dish?
Absolutely. Adding a hearty protein makes it filling enough for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Pineapple Teriyaki Salad is a bright, flavorful dish that brings together sweet pineapple, crisp vegetables, and savory teriyaki dressing in perfect harmony. Whether served as a refreshing side or a satisfying main course, this colorful salad is sure to impress with both its taste and its presentation.
Pineapple Teriyaki Salad is a vibrant, tropical-inspired dish featuring juicy pineapple, crisp fresh vegetables, and a savory-sweet homemade teriyaki dressing. This Pineapple Teriyaki Salad recipe is perfect for a light lunch, refreshing side dish, or protein-packed main course. With bold flavors, colorful presentation, and simple ingredients, this easy teriyaki salad is ideal for warm-weather meals, meal prep, and entertaining.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cucumber, sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
3 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 cup grilled chicken or shrimp (optional)
For the Teriyaki Dressing:
¼ cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until smooth. Set aside.
Wash and prepare all vegetables and pineapple as directed.
In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, cucumber, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and green onions.
If adding protein, grill chicken or shrimp until fully cooked, slice if needed, and allow to cool slightly before adding to the salad.
Drizzle the teriyaki dressing over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to coat evenly.
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute grilled tofu or edamame for meat.To enhance flavor, lightly grill pineapple slices before adding to the salad.Add sliced avocado for creaminess.For extra crunch, include sliced almonds or chopped cashews.Adjust sweetness by reducing honey or adding additional rice vinegar.
