Apple Cranberry Salad
A refreshing fruit salad combining tart cranberries, sweet apples, and optional nuts, set with fruity gelatin for a colorful, flavorful treat suitable for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the gelatin and salt in boiling water.
- Break up the jelled cranberry sauce with a fork.
- Add the jelled cranberry sauce to the gelatin mixture.
- Chill until the mixture is very thick.
- Fold in the chopped apples and nuts, if using.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this recipe, try using raspberry or cherry jello instead of strawberry or mixed fruit for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a less sweet salad, consider reducing the amount of jello. To enhance the crunchiness, substitute the coarsely chopped nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Make sure the apples are crisp to maintain texture after mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple Cranberry Salad is a delightful addition to any holiday table or potluck. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert. Pair it with savory dishes like a Quick Green Bean Casserole for a balanced meal. For a light lunch, enjoy it alongside a simple green salad or with toasted bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If the salad becomes too soft, you can serve it as a dessert topping by spooning it over yogurt or ice cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Cranberry Salad contains roughly 383 calories, with 4g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of jelled cranberry sauce?
Using fresh cranberries is an option, but you'll need to cook them down with sugar and water to create a sauce-like consistency. This will alter the texture and sweetness of the salad, so adjust the jello and sugar accordingly.
What other fruits can I add to this salad?
You can add diced pears or mandarin oranges for added flavor. Dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates can also enhance the sweetness. Just ensure the total fruit volume balances well with the apples for the best 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).