Alma'S Lime Jello Salad
A refreshing lime jello salad with cream cheese, marshmallows, pineapple, pecans, and whipped cream, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or casual gatherings offering a sweet and tangy flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine lime jello, cream cheese, marshmallows, and boiling water in a bowl and let stand until the mixture begins to set.
- Drain the crushed pineapple.
- Add chopped pecans and maraschino cherries to the mixture and combine well.
- Refrigerate until the mixture is firm.
- Beat 1/2 pint of whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the jello mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is well softened before mixing it with the jello and other ingredients. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. For additional flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or zest. This salad can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for gatherings alongside dishes like Ruby Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant Lime Jello Salad makes an excellent side dish for barbecues and potlucks, complementing grilled meats and salads. Serve it in individual cups for a fun presentation or alongside dishes like Granny'S Cabbage Casserole for a delightful meal. Garnish with additional maraschino cherries and pecans for an appealing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The jello salad may become slightly watery over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat the salad, serve it chilled directly from the refrigerator as the texture is best when cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alma'S Lime Jello Salad contains roughly 1529 calories, with 31g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (148% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1883mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this jello salad in advance?
Yes, this jello salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just prepare it according to the instructions, then refrigerate until firm. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings.
What can I substitute for marshmallows?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to marshmallows, you could use mini yogurt-covered raisins or even chopped fresh fruit. However, keep in mind that this will change the texture and sweetness of the salad.
Is it possible to use a different flavor of jello?
Absolutely! While lime jello is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors like lemon, orange, or even berry varieties. This will create a unique twist while still maintaining the fun jello salad texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).