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Discover the vibrant flavors and comforting traditions of Hawaiian cuisine with our collection of 22+ Hawaiian lunch plate recipes.
From tender Kalua pork to crispy Spam musubi, each dish captures the essence of island life — rich, savory, and bursting with tropical influences.
These recipes showcase the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors, alongside fresh, wholesome ingredients that make every meal a celebration.
Whether you’re looking to recreate a classic plate lunch or explore modern twists, these dishes are versatile enough to enjoy as a hearty lunch or share as a festive feast.
Get ready to infuse your kitchen with the aromas of aloha, where every bite tells a story of tradition and island hospitality.
22+ Flavorful Hawaiian Lunch Plate Recipes to Try at Home
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Hawaiian cuisine or discovering it for the first time, these 22+ Hawaiian lunch plate recipes offer a delicious gateway to the islands.
Each recipe brings its own unique flavor, texture, and story—inviting you to savor the harmony of sweet, salty, smoky, and fresh ingredients.
By incorporating these dishes into your meal rotation, you’re not just cooking—you’re celebrating the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Hawaii.
So, gather your ingredients, invite friends or family, and enjoy a taste of aloha right at your own table.
Kalua Pork
Smoky, tender, and irresistibly juicy, this slow-cooked dish brings the essence of a traditional Hawaiian luau straight to your plate.
The meat falls apart with every touch, infused with deep, woodsy notes and a gentle salinity that captures the magic of island cooking.
Its aroma is bold and earthy, reminiscent of smoked fire pits and savory depth that fills your kitchen with island nostalgia.
While it’s the star of any Hawaiian lunch plate, it also pairs effortlessly with rice, cabbage, or even sliders for a fusion twist.
Cook it low and slow with the Crock-Pot 8-Quart Slow Cooker, the Bear Paw Meat Shredders, and the Rubbermaid Brilliance Container Set to keep those leftovers juicy.
Shoyu Chicken
Sweet, salty, and deeply savory, this dish is bathed in a soy-based marinade that clings to each tender piece with rich, glossy intensity.
The texture is melt-in-your-mouth perfection, with hints of garlic and ginger that cut through the richness for balance.
As it simmers, the aroma becomes intoxicating—caramelized soy, warm spices, and that hint of island sweetness.
This dish fits beautifully in a classic Hawaiian plate lunch and holds its own next to rice, salad, or even tucked into wraps.
For best results, use the Staub Cast Iron Braiser, the Cuisinart Marinating Container, and the ThermoPro Instant-Read Thermometer.
Loco Moco
Rich, hearty, and pure comfort, this layered classic brings together fluffy rice, a seared beef patty, silky gravy, and a runny fried egg.
Each bite is a mix of umami-laden sauce, savory beef, and creamy yolk wrapped in the soft grain of warm rice.
The aroma is indulgent—meaty, buttery, and just a bit smoky from the pan-seared crust.
It’s a meal all its own, but easily adapts to different proteins or gravy bases for a fun twist on the original.
Make it flawlessly with the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker, and the OXO Egg Turner for that perfect sunny-side-up finish.
Macaroni Salad
Creamy, tangy, and deceptively simple, this dish is the cool, refreshing sidekick every Hawaiian lunch plate needs.
With soft pasta coated in a luscious dressing, it’s comforting yet bright—thanks to a touch of vinegar, pepper, or pickles.
The aroma is mild but fresh, with hints of mayo and celery that awaken your senses and pair beautifully with any bold entrée.
Perfect as a side, but just as welcome as a main on a warm afternoon with grilled meat or fresh greens.
Toss it right with the OXO Large Mixing Bowl, the KitchenAid Pasta Strainer, and the Chef’n Veggie Chopper for those crisp extras.
Garlic Shrimp
Buttery, garlicky, and kissed with citrus, this dish delivers bold flavor with a touch of beachside charm in every bite.
The shrimp is tender with just the right amount of snap, coated in a punchy, golden sauce that soaks perfectly into warm rice.
It smells like heaven—roasted garlic, sizzling butter, and a hint of the ocean in the air.
Equally at home on a plate lunch or tossed in noodles and salads, it’s a crowd-pleasing protein full of island flair.
Sauté it beautifully with the HexClad Hybrid Frying Pan, the Zyliss Garlic Press, and the Cuisinart Citrus Juicer for that tangy finish.
Huli Huli Chicken
Grilled to juicy perfection and glazed with a sweet, smoky sauce, this dish brings tropical barbecue straight to your backyard.
The flavor is a perfect dance of pineapple, soy, and brown sugar with just enough char to give it depth and complexity.
Its scent alone—smoky, sweet, and caramelizing—is enough to bring everyone to the table.
It’s perfect for the lunch plate but also slides easily into wraps, grain bowls, or paired with fresh fruit for a summery twist.
Grill it right with the Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill, the OXO Marinade Brush, and the ThermoWorks Meat Thermometer for juicy, safe cooking.
Spam Musubi
Savory, salty, and slightly sweet, this grab-and-go favorite is layered with umami flavors and a satisfying bite.
The rice is firm but tender, hugging the pan-fried spam tightly with a strip of nori that adds texture and a hint of the sea.
Its aroma is rich and comforting—like pan-seared meat and soy glaze meeting sticky rice warmth.
Perfect for lunches, road trips, or picnics, it’s both portable and addictive.
Shape it perfectly with the Musubi Press Mold, the Zojirushi Rice Warmer, and the Kitchen + Home Nonstick Pan for that ideal golden sear.
Lau Lau
Earthy, savory, and deeply traditional, this dish features meat and fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed until meltingly tender.
The flavor is distinct—herbal from the leaves, robust from the meat, and subtly briny when fish is included.
Its scent is unmistakable: warm, leafy, and aromatic, like something passed down from generation to generation.
While rooted in heritage, it’s a beautiful, nutrient-rich centerpiece that complements rice and pickled sides with ease.
Steam it to perfection with the Bamboo Steamer Basket Set, the Instant Pot Multi-Cooker, and the Stasher Reusable Silicone Bags for prep and marinating.
Chicken Long Rice
Light, aromatic, and soothing, this comforting dish weaves together clear broth, tender chicken, and soft glass noodles in a warm island embrace.
The texture is silky and gentle, perfect for days when you crave something both nourishing and flavorful.
Its aroma is filled with notes of fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions—delicate yet enticing, like a tropical chicken soup with a twist.
Ideal on its own or paired with rice and pickled vegetables for a full plate experience.
Achieve the perfect texture using the Le Creuset Dutch Oven, Imusa Noodle Strainer, and the Kyocera Ceramic Ginger Grater.
Teriyaki Beef
Sweet, savory, and grilled to juicy perfection, this dish brings the bold, caramelized flavor of island-style teriyaki to life.
Each slice of beef is seared to lock in juices, then glazed with a sticky, flavorful sauce that clings to the meat beautifully.
The scent is mouthwatering—smoky edges, hints of brown sugar and soy, and a lingering aroma that draws everyone to the table.
It pairs effortlessly with steamed rice, mac salad, or tossed in a stir-fry for a creative remix.
Make it flawless with the Cuisinart Griddler Deluxe, OXO Meat Tenderizer, and the Tovala Smart Oven for perfect caramelization.
Tofu Katsu
Crispy, golden, and wonderfully light, this plant-based twist on a classic delivers the crunch of a fried cutlet with a soft, creamy interior.
Each bite offers a satisfying texture—crisp on the outside, tender inside—balanced with a tangy dipping sauce or drizzled glaze.
The aroma is warm and nutty, reminiscent of panko and toasted oil, with a clean, comforting finish.
It works great in a bento box, on a plate with rice and greens, or stacked into a sandwich for something modern and fun.
For the best results, try the Breville Smart Fryer, Progressive Bread Crumb Bowl, and Global Santoku Knife for clean, precise slices.
Portuguese Sausage and Rice
Bold, spicy, and deeply satisfying, this dish delivers layers of smoky richness with every bite.
The sausage sears beautifully, releasing oils and aromas that flavor the rice and create an unforgettable flavor base.
Its smell is unmistakable—spiced meat, sizzling fat, and that sweet-savory balance that makes it perfect for lunch or brunch.
It shines solo or alongside eggs, fried rice, or greens for a complete Hawaiian-style plate.
Fry it up right with the Made In Nonstick Frying Pan, Camerons Grill Press, and Sistema Rice Container to keep leftovers fresh.
Beef Stew
Hearty, rich, and deeply comforting, this island-style version of beef stew simmers chunks of tender meat in a tomato-based broth with vegetables.
The flavor is both sweet and savory, with a slight tang that sets it apart from traditional stews.
As it bubbles, the kitchen fills with the scent of slow-simmered meat, garlic, and a hint of island spices.
It’s a soul-warming addition to any plate lunch and pairs beautifully with white rice and a scoop of mac salad.
Cook it slow with the Instant Precision Dutch Oven, Joseph Joseph Cutting Board Set, and the All-Clad Ladle for easy serving.
Fried Saimin
Salty, chewy, and packed with texture, this local favorite turns noodles into a stir-fried dream.
The noodles are lightly crisped on the edges, combined with savory bits of spam, eggs, or green onions in a nostalgic mix of flavors.
Its aroma is deeply satisfying—soy, sesame oil, and toasted noodles mingling in a skillet symphony.
It’s ideal on its own or with a side of kimchi, pickled veggies, or even tucked into a wrap for an on-the-go treat.
Create stir-fry perfection with the Joyce Chen Carbon Steel Wok, Helen’s Asian Kitchen Chopsticks, and the KitchenAid Tongs.
Pipikaula
Salty, chewy, and packed with deep beefy flavor, this traditional Hawaiian jerky-style dish is as addictive as it is rustic.
Each bite delivers a punch of smoky, spiced meat, often finished with a bit of char for extra depth.
The aroma is earthy and bold—like seasoned campfire beef that’s been slow-dried under the island sun.
It’s a fantastic protein option on any Hawaiian plate, served hot or cold, and always satisfying.
Prepare it right using the Excalibur Food Dehydrator, Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer, and the Lavatools Digital Meat Thermometer.
Fish Lau Lau
Flaky, flavorful, and delicately steamed, this variation brings fish into the spotlight wrapped inside fragrant taro or ti leaves.
The fish absorbs herbal, earthy notes from the leaves, creating a moist, aromatic bundle that tastes both clean and complex.
Its smell is gentle and green, with a hint of the sea and the warm, vegetal essence of steamed greens.
It’s a nutritious, deeply rooted dish that complements any Hawaiian plate with lightness and tradition.
Steam it to perfection using the Cuisinart Digital Steamer, If You Care Parchment Paper Sheets, and the OXO Herb Snips for clean leaf trimming.
Haupia
Silky, creamy, and refreshingly sweet, this traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding is the perfect cool finish to any lunch plate.
Its smooth, velvety texture melts effortlessly on the tongue, delivering a delicate balance of rich coconut flavor and subtle sweetness.
The aroma is light and tropical, evoking the essence of island beaches and warm sunshine in every bite.
While it shines as a standalone dessert, it also complements savory dishes by offering a cool contrast.
For best results, use the Cuisinart Immersion Blender, Le Creuset Silicone Spatula, and Anchor Hocking Glass Dessert Bowls.
Spam Fried Rice
Savory, salty, and packed with umami, this dish elevates everyday rice with crispy cubes of pan-fried spam and flavorful seasonings.
The rice grains are fluffy but slightly caramelized, offering a delightful texture contrast with the tender, golden spam pieces.
Its aroma fills the kitchen with the comforting scent of sizzling meat and toasted garlic, tempting everyone nearby.
Perfect on its own or as a hearty side, it’s a quick, satisfying lunch that brings island comfort to your table.
Cook it best using the Calphalon Nonstick Skillet, Chef’n Garlic Press, and the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet.
Poi
Earthy, smooth, and uniquely Hawaiian, this staple made from taro root offers a slightly tangy, creamy texture that is both nourishing and traditional.
Its flavor is mild but distinct, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of fermented complexity that awakens your palate.
The aroma is faintly vegetal and comforting, carrying the spirit of the islands in every scoop.
While it pairs beautifully with rich proteins and savory sides, poi also stands alone as a wholesome, authentic treat.
Serve it best with the Pacific Living Hawaiian Poi Bowl, OXO Silicone Spatula, and KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer for whipping smooth.
Coconut Shrimp
Crispy, golden, and delightfully sweet, this shrimp dish is coated with toasted coconut flakes that add a tropical crunch to each bite.
The shrimp inside remains tender and juicy, offering a perfect contrast to the crunchy, nutty coating.
Its scent is a blend of warm coconut, fried batter, and a hint of ocean breeze—truly transporting you to a Hawaiian shore.
Great as a main or appetizer, it pairs perfectly with dipping sauces or a fresh side salad for a balanced lunch.
For the crispiest results, use the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer, OXO Nonstick Tongs, and Cuisinart Coconut Grater.
Sweet Potato
Roasted or mashed, Hawaiian sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture that complements any lunch plate.
Their vibrant orange flesh is tender and rich, with a caramelized exterior if roasted just right.
The aroma is warm and inviting, reminiscent of fall harvests and island gardens alike.
Perfect as a side dish or mixed into salads and bowls, they add color and nutrition effortlessly.
Prepare them with the Vitamix Blender, All-Clad Roasting Pan, and the Microplane Zester for added flavor layers.
Beef Patties
Flaky, savory, and bursting with seasoned ground beef, these handheld treats are a beloved Hawaiian lunch staple.
The crust is golden and tender, while the filling is rich, juicy, and spiced with island-inspired flavors.
Their aroma is hearty and inviting, a perfect mix of baked dough and meaty goodness.
Enjoy them solo as a satisfying snack or pair with rice and salad for a fuller lunch experience.
Bake them perfectly with the Silpat Baking Mat, KitchenAid Stand Mixer, and the OXO Pastry Blender.
Conclusion
Embracing the diverse flavors of Hawaii is easier than ever with these 22+ Hawaiian lunch plate recipes at your fingertips.
From the comforting heartiness of loco moco to the crispy delight of coconut shrimp, there’s something here for every palate and occasion.
These recipes are more than meals—they’re experiences that bring the spirit of island living into your everyday lunch.
Try them out, tweak them to your taste, and let each bite transport you to a sunny Hawaiian shore full of flavor and tradition.