Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice

Featured in: The Perfect Side for Every Meal

This dish blends jasmine or basmati rice with creamy coconut milk, sweet pineapple juice, and gently sautéed grains for extra nuttiness. Crushed pineapple adds bursts of juicy flavor, while toasted coconut finishes the dish with a subtle crunch. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime for a tropical twist. It’s easy to prepare and makes an aromatic companion for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains—ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings where you want a taste of the tropics.

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Updated on Wed, 18 Jun 2025 13:53:39 GMT
A bowl of rice with pineapple and green onions. Pin it
A bowl of rice with pineapple and green onions. | tastygusto.com

Tropical coconut pineapple rice instantly captures the feeling of pure island comfort and has become my go-to side dish for anything grilled or when I just want something fresh and bright It is creamy slightly sweet and full of tropical flavor that turns even a weekday meal into a mini escape

Every time I make this coconut pineapple rice it gets so many compliments My family swears it reminds them of vacation and it is usually the first thing finished at the table

Ingredients

  • Coconut oil or butter: For richness and a delicate tropical aroma Choose cold-pressed coconut oil for maximum fragrance
  • Jasmine or basmati rice: For a fluffy texture and fragrant base Pick high-quality rice for the lightest and most aromatic results
  • Full-fat coconut milk: Brings a dreamy creamy texture Always shake the can before using to combine the solids and liquids
  • Pineapple juice plus optional water: For tangy sweetness Fresh juice tastes best but canned works in a pinch
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps things balanced Use fine sea salt for even seasoning
  • Crushed pineapple: Adds bright bursts of fruitiness Drain well to avoid soggy rice
  • Shredded coconut: Gives extra coconut crunch and can be toasted for more flavor Look for unsweetened flakes for a natural taste
  • Cilantro or green onions: Provide a pop of color and freshness Optional but highly recommended
  • Lime wedges: For a finishing squeeze of zesty contrast Fresh limes give the best flavor hit

Step-by-Step Instructions

Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear This step removes extra starch which helps keep the rice grains fluffy and prevents stickiness while cooking
Sauté the Rice:
Heat your coconut oil or butter in a sturdy saucepan on medium heat Add the rinsed rice and stir constantly for about three minutes You want the grains slightly toasted and a fragrant nutty smell wafting up This builds the base flavor for the entire dish
Add the Liquids:
Pour in the coconut milk pineapple juice and salt Stir everything gently to mix Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat Watch closely so it does not boil over
Simmer the Rice:
Lower the heat to the absolute minimum and cover the saucepan tightly Let the rice simmer undisturbed for about fifteen to eighteen minutes The rice will cook through and absorb almost all the liquid Try not to lift the lid too often to keep the steam trapped inside
Finish and Fluff:
Switch off the heat Gently fold in the crushed pineapple making sure it is evenly distributed Cover the pan again and allow the rice to rest for five minutes off the heat This steaming step ensures the rice becomes pillowy and tender
Garnish and Serve:
Use a fork to fluff up the rice and separate the grains Spoon the rice into a serving bowl and top with toasted coconut and plenty of chopped cilantro or green onions Add lime wedges on the side for anyone wanting a bright citrusy finish
A bowl of rice with pineapple chunks. Pin it
A bowl of rice with pineapple chunks. | tastygusto.com

My favorite ingredient is definitely the fresh lime at the end It makes the coconut and pineapple pop For my family this dish always brings us back to the beach vacation where we tasted something similar—now it is a comfort classic on our summer table

Storage Tips

Cool any leftover rice quickly and store in an airtight container in the fridge It stays fresh for up to three days For reheating sprinkle a tiny bit of water over the rice and microwave covered to bring back its fluffy texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you run out of coconut milk try swapping with light coconut milk or even half milk and water though it will be a little less creamy No pineapple juice on hand Use all water with a little extra pineapple if desired Brown rice works but will need a bit more liquid and longer cooking

Serving Suggestions

Serve this coconut pineapple rice under coconut shrimp black bean bowls or with grilled vegetables It is also delicious at room temperature as part of a tropical-inspired lunch spread A sprinkle of toasted macadamia nuts or a handful of diced mango makes it even more festive

A bowl of rice with pineapple and green onions. Pin it
A bowl of rice with pineapple and green onions. | tastygusto.com

If you ever get to share this rice at a potluck expect it to disappear fast It bridges sweet and savory beautifully and pairs well with just about anything grilled or spicy

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I prevent the rice from becoming sticky?

Rinsing the rice under cold water until clear helps remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy, separate grains once cooked.

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Jasmine or basmati rice offers the best texture and aroma, but long-grain white rice works as a substitute if needed.

→ Is it necessary to use full-fat coconut milk?

Full-fat coconut milk gives a creamy texture and rich flavor, but you can use light coconut milk for a lighter dish.

→ What proteins pair well with this dish?

This side pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork. The tropical flavors complement both savory and spicy mains.

→ How do I add more texture or flavor?

Try stirring in roasted cashews, adding extra toasted coconut, or topping with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint just before serving.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Fluff with a fork and refresh with a splash of coconut milk to keep the rice moist and flavorful.

Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice

Creamy coconut milk and pineapple brighten jasmine rice for a vibrant, sweet-savory side bursting with flavor.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes

Category: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Fusion

Yield: 4 Servings (Serves 4 as a side dish)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main

01 1 tablespoon coconut oil or unsalted butter
02 1 cup jasmine rice or basmati rice, uncooked
03 1 cup canned coconut milk, full-fat
04 1 cup pineapple juice (or a blend of pineapple juice and water)
05 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
06 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained

→ Garnish (Optional)

07 1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted
08 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or sliced green onions
09 Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 01

Place the uncooked rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water, agitating until the water runs clear. Drain well to remove excess starch.

Step 02

In a medium saucepan, heat coconut oil or butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring continuously until lightly toasted and aromatic.

Step 03

Pour in the coconut milk, pineapple juice, and salt. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 04

Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.

Step 05

Turn off the heat and gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. Re-cover and allow the rice to rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.


A bowl of rice with pineapple chunks.
Step 06

Spoon the rice into bowls and top with toasted coconut, fresh cilantro or green onions, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately.


A bowl of rice with pineapple and green onions.

Notes

  1. For a deeper coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry pan until golden before garnishing.

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains coconut and may contain dairy if butter is used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 310
  • Total Fat: 10 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 50 g
  • Protein: 4 g