Apricot Or Orange Salad
A refreshing fruit salad with pineapple, mandarin oranges, creamy cottage cheese, and a sweet jello swirl, topped with crunchy pecans – perfect for a light dessert or brunch treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle pineapple, oranges, Cool Whip and cottage cheese with apricot or orange jello.
- Top with pecans.
- Stir well and chill.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cottage cheese instead of low-fat. You can substitute the Cool Whip with whipped cream for a fresher taste. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of jello or use a sugar-free version. Adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, can enhance the crunch and flavor, making it a delightful addition to any picnic alongside Potato Salad With Parsley Pesto Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a light pasta dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light green salad or alongside Babes Chocolate Swirls for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may become a bit watery over time due to the fruit juices, so stir it gently before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cottage cheese and Cool Whip can change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Or Orange Salad contains roughly 795 calories, with 11g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can substitute fresh pineapple and oranges for the canned versions. Just ensure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces, and adjust the jello to taste, as fresh fruits may alter the sweetness of the dish.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
This salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to enjoy it within the first 24-48 hours.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients except for the pecans, which you can add right before serving to keep them crunchy. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
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).