Annapolis Salad
A refreshing, nutty pineapple salad with crisp celery and green peppers, complemented by creamy cottage cheese and whipped cream, perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple and cut into small pieces.
- Dissolve the plain gelatin in 1/4 cup of pineapple juice.
- Bring the remaining pineapple juice to a boil and pour over the gelatin.
- Set aside to cool.
- Mix the chopped pineapple, chopped pecans, diced celery, finely diced green peppers, and salt with the cottage cheese and mayonnaise.
- Add the cooled gelatin mixture to the salad and mix well.
- Fold in the whipped cream sweetened with powdered sugar.
- Pour the mixture into a ring mold rinsed with cold water.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cottage cheese and mayonnaise. You can also use gelatin alternatives like agar-agar if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved by mixing it with warm pineapple juice, and let it cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to achieve the best consistency. You can enhance the flavor with a dash of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
This Annapolis Salad makes a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Consider serving it alongside light dishes like American recipes that feature fresh vegetables or fruit salads to create a vibrant meal. Garnish with additional pecans or a sprinkle of paprika for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the salad, as the cream and gelatin may separate upon thawing. If you need to reassemble the salad, serve it chilled straight from the fridge for optimal taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Annapolis Salad contains roughly 364 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 627mg per serving (27% 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 salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Annapolis Salad a day ahead. Just ensure it is tightly covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. Just make sure to let it set properly to achieve the right firmness before serving.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can substitute them with sunflower seeds or roasted pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. Both options will still provide a delightful texture and enhance the overall flavor of the salad without compromising its integrity.
How long does this salad need to chill?
The salad should chill for at least 4-6 hours to ensure it sets properly. If you have the time, leaving it overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to develop and the gelatin to firm up, giving you the best texture when serving.
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).