Aunt Jenny'S Cherry Salad
A sweet and tangy cherry salad featuring cherry pie filling, pineapple, and crunchy pecans. Perfect as a cool dessert or side dish for family gatherings and potlucks, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cherry pie filling, Eagle Brand condensed milk, drained pineapple, and chopped pecans in a bowl.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat condensed milk or substituting Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. You can also swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor. For a twist, try incorporating shredded coconut or maraschino cherries.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Jenny's Cherry Salad as a delightful dessert or a refreshing side dish at summer picnics. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Hillbilly Salad or can be enjoyed alongside grilled meats. For a more festive touch, garnish with whipped cream or additional pecans on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If it thickens, just give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Jenny'S Cherry Salad contains roughly 1207 calories, with 17g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 12g 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 cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
While fresh cherries can be used, they won't provide the same sweetness and thickness as cherry pie filling. If you choose fresh cherries, consider cooking them down with sugar and cornstarch for a similar texture and flavor before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this salad vegan by using a plant-based condensed milk alternative. Also, ensure that the cherry pie filling contains no animal products. Check labels carefully and you can still enjoy this delightful dish without dairy.
What can I substitute for the pineapple?
If you're not a fan of pineapple, you can substitute it with diced peaches or mandarin oranges for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to drain any excess juice to maintain the consistency 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).