Apricot Jello Cheese Salad
A refreshing and creamy fruit salad featuring pineapple, apricots, and sharp cheese, set in orange Jell-O, perfect for light desserts or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple chunks and apricots, reserving 1 cup of apricot juice.
- Dissolve the orange Jell-O in 3 cups of boiling water, then add 1 cup of apricot juice and stir until dissolved.
- Pour the Jell-O mixture into a mold or dish and refrigerate until congealed, about 4 hours.
- While the Jell-O sets, prepare the apricot sauce: combine apricot juice, sugar, cornstarch, and butter in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, then remove from heat and let cool.
- Once the Jell-O is set, fold in drained pineapple chunks, apricots, and grated sharp cheese.
- Pour the apricot sauce over the top or serve on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream to the Jell-O before adding the fruit and cheese. You can also substitute the orange Jell-O with peach or lemon flavor for a different twist. If you want a more tart flavor, use low-sugar or sugar-free Jell-O options. Ensure the Jell-O is fully set before adding the cheese to prevent it from sinking.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light appetizer at a summer gathering. Serve it alongside dishes like Bill'S Sweet Potato Souffle for a delightful contrast. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor. Consider serving the apricot sauce on the side for guests to drizzle as they like.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the salad, as this can alter the consistency of the cheese and fruit. If serving chilled, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Jello Cheese Salad contains roughly 199 calories, with 2g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% 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 fruit instead of canned for this salad?
Yes, you can use fresh apricots and pineapple chunks instead of canned. Be sure to adjust the sweetness by adding a little more sugar if necessary, as fresh fruits may not be as sweet as their canned counterparts.
How do I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the Jell-O and apricot sauce a day in advance. Once the Jell-O is set, fold in the fruits and cheese just before serving to keep them fresh. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What can I substitute for the sharp cheese?
If sharp cheese isn't available, consider using a mild cheddar or even a cream cheese for a different flavor profile. For a vegan option, try a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well and complements the sweet flavors of the salad.
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).