Vibrant Tropical Paradise Rice

Name: Luau Pineapple Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chopped green onions, about 2 tbsp, if you wanna toss some on top.; Handful of macadamia nuts, toasted if you like, to finish (totally up to you).; One cup fresh pineapple, diced.; Quarter teaspoon white pepper.; Teaspoon of chicken bouillon or chicken powder.; Half cup unsweetened coconut, shredded.; Half cup of ham, sliced up thin.; Two cloves garlic, minced up.; Teaspoon fresh grated ginger or use a dash of dried if that's easier.; Half a cup chopped onion.; Two tablespoons coconut oil.; One and a half cups water (only if making rice from scratch).; A cup of raw basmati rice or take two cups already cooked rice.

As seen on: Easy and Flavorful Side Dish Recipes

Mix together leftover rice, ham, pineapple, and toasted coconut for a fast dish that brings tropical flavors to your meal. Done in no time—great for summer vibes.

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Shared By Emily

Last revised on Sat, 02 Aug 2025 11:35:43 GMT

Bowl of fried rice showing off ham chunks, juicy pineapple, green onions, and crisp coconut. | emilyscooks.com

If you want a taste of the tropics, my version of Hawaiian luau rice totally nails it. Sweet pineapple, smoky ham, and crunchy coconut turn everyday rice into a real treat. No joke, whenever I make this, my family polishes it off and always asks for more.

Dreamy Island Magic

I threw this together because I love Hawaiian flavors and easy meals. Mixing sweet, tangy, and just a bit salty makes simple rice extra special. It's a hit at outdoor parties but just as great for staying in with your crew.

Straight from Home

Coconut oil gives that island vibe
Cool, day-old fluffy rice works best
Cut-up ham brings that salty kick
Fresh pineapple is super tasty if you can get it
Sautéed aromatics start the flavor party
Toasted coconut adds crunch and color
Chopped macadamias when you're feeling fancy
Chopped green onions finish things off

Ready to Cook

Finishing Touch: Sprinkle green onions and nuts over the top, then serve up warm bowls
Get It Going: Heat up coconut oil, let onions, ginger, and garlic get nice and sweet in the pan
Mix All Together: Sear the ham, toss in rice, add pineapple and coconut, heat till everything's hot
Crispy Bits: Toast coconut till golden, do the nuts too if you like
Rice First: Make rice, let it chill in the fridge overnight so it stays fluffy

Nail It Every Time

Nothing beats fresh pineapple, so use it if you can. Make sure to toast your coconut so it gets that golden crunch. Letting rice chill keeps things from getting mushy. Swap out the meat or fruit depending on your mood and put your own spin on it.

Close up of fried rice loaded with chunks of ham, pineapple, and green onion. | emilyscooks.com

Fun Ways to Eat

This goes great with anything from grilled pork to teriyaki chicken or fish. Want that island vibe? Try it alongside a fruity punch. If you stash some for later, it'll keep happy in the fridge up to three days—warm it up gently and enjoy again.

Common Questions

→ Which kind of rice should I grab?: Chilled leftover rice is the way to go. Cold grains don't turn mushy.
→ Will canned pineapple work?: Go for it—either canned or fresh pineapple shines here.
→ Which meats should I toss in?: Try deli ham, fresh cooked ham, or keep it classic with Spam.
→ Should the coconut be sweet?: Pick unsweetened dried coconut. Toasting it really ups the flavor.
→ What's the deal with cold rice?: It keeps the rice from lumping together when you fry it up.