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Hawaiian plate lunch is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious celebration of island culture and flavors.
With 26+ Hawaiian plate lunch recipes, you can explore an array of dishes that blend sweet, savory, smoky, and tangy notes in every bite.
From tender Kalua pork and zesty Lomi Salmon to crispy Spam musubi and creamy macaroni salad, each recipe captures the unique spirit of Hawaii’s diverse culinary heritage.
Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a light and fresh meal, these recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.
Get ready to bring the vibrant tastes of Hawaii right to your table with these iconic, easy-to-make plate lunch favorites.
26+ Healthy and Tasty Hawaiian Plate Lunch Recipes to Try at Home
With these 26+ Hawaiian plate lunch recipes, you can easily bring the taste of the islands into your kitchen.
Whether you’re preparing a casual weekday lunch or a festive gathering, these dishes offer bold flavors and comforting textures that everyone will enjoy.
Take your time to explore the variety of sweet, smoky, and savory options, and discover your new favorite plate lunch combinations.
Celebrate Hawaiian culture and cuisine with meals that are as vibrant and diverse as the islands themselves.
Kalua Pork
Tender, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth, this traditional Kalua pork is slow-cooked to perfection with a subtle sea salt and liquid smoke flavor.
The aroma of smoky pork fills the air, promising a rich, savory bite.
Serve it alongside fluffy white rice and tangy macaroni salad for an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience that’s both hearty and comforting.
Loco Moco
This iconic Hawaiian comfort dish features juicy, seasoned hamburger patties topped with a rich brown gravy and a perfectly fried egg.
The savory aroma mingles with the velvety gravy, while the runny yolk adds a luscious creaminess.
Enjoy it over steamed rice, creating a satisfying, savory lunch that’s full of layers and textures.
Teriyaki Chicken
Glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, this grilled chicken boasts a beautiful caramelized exterior and juicy, tender meat inside.
The scent of ginger and garlic lifts the dish, while the sticky glaze adds a mouthwatering shine.
Perfect on its own or served with rice and a fresh side salad for a balanced, flavorful meal.
Spam Musubi
This fun and portable dish layers salty, crispy pan-fried Spam over vinegared sushi rice, all wrapped snugly in nori.
The contrast of textures—crispy edges and soft rice—makes every bite exciting.
Ideal for lunches on the go or as a snack that brings a taste of Hawaii’s unique fusion cuisine.
Haupia
A creamy coconut pudding dessert with a silky texture and subtle tropical sweetness.
Its smooth, cool consistency contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the plate lunch.
Haupia is the perfect finish to round out any Hawaiian meal with a light, refreshing touch.
Macaroni Salad
Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, this Hawaiian-style macaroni salad is rich with mayonnaise and a hint of vinegar.
Soft pasta bites mingle with crunchy shredded carrots, making it a comforting and satisfying side.
Its cool, creamy texture perfectly balances grilled meats and rice, making it an essential element of any Hawaiian plate lunch.
Shoyu Chicken
Tender chicken thighs soak up a rich, savory shoyu sauce made from soy, garlic, and ginger.
Grilled or pan-seared, the chicken caramelizes beautifully, creating a deep umami aroma and juicy texture.
Enjoy it with steamed rice and a side of crunchy greens for a classic, comforting Hawaiian lunch.
Kalbi Ribs
These Korean-style grilled short ribs are marinated in a sweet and savory soy-garlic sauce that caramelizes on the grill.
The smoky, sticky glaze gives each bite a tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality with just a hint of char.
Perfect alongside rice and macaroni salad, they bring bold, mouthwatering flavor to your plate lunch.
Chicken Long Rice
This comforting Hawaiian soup features tender chicken, clear noodles, and ginger in a fragrant, savory broth.
Light yet satisfying, its silky noodles and subtle spice make it a perfect complement to heavier grilled dishes.
Serve it as a side or a light main for a balanced Hawaiian meal experience.
Haupia Pie
A creamy coconut filling layered on a buttery, flaky crust, this dessert is tropical indulgence in every bite.
Its smooth texture and sweet coconut flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of a plate lunch.
A perfect treat to finish your meal with authentic island vibes.
Portuguese Sausage
Savory, slightly smoky Portuguese sausage slices are pan-fried until crisp on the outside and juicy inside.
Their bold flavor and satisfying texture add richness to any Hawaiian plate lunch.
Pair them with rice, eggs, and salad for a hearty, flavorful midday meal.
Spam Fried Rice
Crispy cubes of Spam stir-fried with fluffy rice, vegetables, and soy sauce create a nostalgic Hawaiian favorite.
The dish is salty, savory, and packed with contrasting textures from tender veggies to crispy meat bits.
Enjoy it on its own or as a side to complement grilled meats and salad.
Shoyu Pork
Succulent pork marinated in a savory shoyu sauce, infused with garlic and ginger.
Grilled or pan-seared, the pork develops a rich caramelized crust while staying tender inside.
Perfect alongside steamed rice and a fresh side of pickled vegetables for a balanced Hawaiian plate lunch.
Garlic Shrimp
Juicy shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon zest.
The aroma is irresistible, with a tender, slightly crispy texture that complements fluffy rice perfectly.
A light yet flavorful option that shines as a main dish or a tasty side.
Teri Beef
Thinly sliced beef marinated in sweet teriyaki sauce, then grilled or stir-fried until caramelized.
Each bite bursts with a balance of smoky, sweet, and savory notes that make it crave-worthy.
Enjoy it with rice and a crisp salad for a satisfying lunch inspired by Hawaiian plate traditions.
Haupia Tart
A tropical dessert with creamy coconut filling nestled in a crisp tart shell.
Its smooth, cool sweetness is a perfect finish to any savory Hawaiian meal.
A crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance to your plate lunch spread.
Mahi Mahi
Grilled Mahi Mahi fillets seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
The fish is flaky, moist, and lightly charred, delivering clean ocean flavors with every bite.
Pair it with rice and a fresh pineapple salsa for a bright, island-inspired lunch.
Mac Salad
A creamy macaroni salad with mayonnaise, shredded carrots, and a hint of vinegar.
Its cool, soft texture and slight tang make it an essential side for balancing richer grilled meats.
A classic staple that completes the authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience.
Lomi Salmon
Fresh diced salmon mixed with ripe tomatoes, onions, and a hint of chili creates a refreshing side dish.
Its bright, tangy flavors and juicy texture perfectly complement richer grilled meats and rice.
A classic Hawaiian salad that adds zest and balance to any plate lunch.
Kalbi Chicken
Marinated in a sweet and savory Korean-style sauce, this grilled chicken boasts smoky caramelized edges.
Juicy and tender, it’s bursting with bold umami flavor.
Serve it with steamed rice and macaroni salad for a satisfying fusion-style Hawaiian lunch.
Hawaiian Meatloaf
A twist on traditional meatloaf, incorporating pineapple and soy sauce for a sweet-savory flavor.
Baked to juicy perfection, it’s tender with a caramelized glaze.
Ideal sliced and served with rice and a crisp salad for a comforting lunch plate.
Pineapple Chicken
Grilled chicken cooked with fresh pineapple chunks and a tangy teriyaki glaze creates a tropical flavor explosion.
The sweet acidity of pineapple balances the savory chicken beautifully.
Enjoy it alongside rice and macaroni salad for a quintessential Hawaiian meal.
Saimin Soup
A warm bowl of Hawaiian-style noodle soup with tender pork, green onions, and soft noodles in a clear broth.
Light and comforting, it’s the perfect complement to heavier plate lunch items.
A delicious way to add warmth and balance to your midday meal.
Spam Musubi
Slices of fried Spam atop sticky sushi rice wrapped in nori seaweed make a portable and savory snack.
Its salty, crispy edges contrast with soft rice for a satisfying texture.
A beloved Hawaiian treat that’s perfect for lunch or on-the-go bites.
Beef Patties
Flaky pastry pockets filled with seasoned ground beef, spices, and savory herbs.
Baked or fried until golden, these hand-held delights are crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
Perfect as a hearty lunch side or a satisfying snack that brings island flavors to your plate.
Tofu Aloha
Grilled tofu marinated in a sweet and tangy pineapple-soy glaze, infused with garlic and ginger.
The tofu is perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside.
An excellent plant-based option that pairs beautifully with rice and traditional sides for a balanced Hawaiian lunch.
Conclusion
The beauty of Hawaiian plate lunch lies in its simplicity and balance.
These 26+ Hawaiian plate lunch recipes provide you with a range of easy-to-make, flavorful dishes that are perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or sharing with family and friends.
From grilled meats and fresh salads to comforting sides and sweet treats, you can customize your plate to suit your tastes and schedule.
Start cooking today and enjoy the satisfying, wholesome flavors of Hawaii’s beloved plate lunches anytime you want.
