Aunt Hazel'S Jello Salad
A bright, tangy Jello salad with creamy cottage cheese, a hint of horseradish, and sweet pineapple—perfect for summer gatherings or a playful side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the 2 cups boiling water into a bowl with the lemon and lime Jello powders and stir until dissolved.
- Let the mixture set until it starts to thicken, then fold in the cottage cheese and horseradish.
- Whisk together the salad dressing and the cup of evaporated milk.
- Add the dressing mixture to the Jello mixture and stir to combine.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
- Transfer the salad to a refrigerator and let it set for at least an hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese and consider adding a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, ensure the salad dressing is suitable for vegetarian diets. You can substitute the horseradish with prepared mustard for a milder flavor, or omit it entirely if preferred. This dish pairs beautifully with Grandmom Langebartel'S Pound Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This Jello salad makes a vibrant side dish for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs well with savory dishes like grilled chicken or ham. For a complete meal, serve alongside American recipes such as Missionary Bread for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Jello salad can lose some of its texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat it slightly, do so in the microwave in short intervals, but it's typically served cold, so reheating may not be necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Hazel'S Jello Salad contains roughly 454 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1224mg per serving (53% 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 a different flavor of Jello?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of Jello like raspberry or orange. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly, and you may wish to adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more or less horseradish.
Is this salad suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely! This Jello salad is a great potluck dish because it can be made ahead of time and served cold. Just make sure to bring a serving spoon and keep it chilled until serving to maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or soy yogurt. Ensure the salad dressing is also vegan, and consider using a vegan whipped cream instead of evaporated milk for creaminess.
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).