Apricot Cream Salad
Apricot Cream Salad is a delightful dessert featuring tender apricots combined with a creamy, tangy dressing. The vibrant orange flavor pairs beautifully with the smooth texture, making it perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions where a refreshing, fruity treat is desired.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine apricots and 2 cups water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12 minutes or until apricots are soft.
- Drain the apricots, reserving the liquid.
- Prepare the Jell-O according to package directions, using the reserved liquid for part of the water, and refrigerate until partly thickened.
- Mash or puree the apricots in a food processor or blender.
- Add the mashed apricots to the partly thickened Jell-O and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly oiled 1 1/2-quart mold.
- Chill until the Jell-O is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the sour cream with the apricot mixture before folding it into the Jell-O. If you can't find apricot-flavored Jell-O, orange is a great substitute. You can also try using fresh apricots if they are in season, but remember to adjust the water accordingly. This dish can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Apricot Cream Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing presentation. It pairs beautifully with rich dishes like Rich Macaroni And Cheese, balancing the meal with its sweet and tangy flavor. For a complete brunch or potluck spread, consider adding Brenda'S Mini Rye Appetizers and a fresh fruit platter.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Apricot Cream Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the salad becomes too firm, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the Jell-O and sour cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Cream Salad contains roughly 835 calories, with 15g protein, 180g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (158% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (111% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1054mg per serving (46% 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 use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh apricots! Just be sure to adjust the water amount as fresh fruit contains more moisture. Simmer the fresh apricots until they are soft, then proceed with the recipe as directed for the best results.
How long does it take for the Jell-O to set?
The Jell-O typically takes about 4 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. For quicker results, you can place it in the freezer for short periods, but be cautious not to let it freeze solid.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and ensure the Jell-O is gelatin-free. There are several brands that offer vegan gelatin substitutes, which will work perfectly for this recipe.
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).