Aunt Nellie'S Salad
A light and creamy salad featuring cottage cheese, pineapple, and whipped cream, balanced with a hint of lemon jello and crunch from chopped nuts. Perfect for brunches, potlucks, or a refreshing side dish, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cottage cheese, lemon jello, and boiling water in a mixing bowl.
- Let the mixture cool until it thickens but is not fully set.
- Whip the cooled mixture until fluffy.
- Fold in crushed pineapple, salt, salad dressing, chopped nuts, and whipped cream.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cottage cheese and whipped cream. If you prefer a sweeter salad, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or using flavored jello. Ensure the boiling water is truly boiling to help the jello dissolve completely. If you're short on time, you can skip the whipping step for a denser texture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a delightful addition to brunch or a potluck and pairs beautifully with Zucchini Puffs. Serve it chilled as a side dish for grilled meats or alongside a fresh garden salad. It can also be a refreshing dessert option, especially in warmer months.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may separate slightly upon sitting, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nellie'S Salad contains roughly 393 calories, with 9g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and potassium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1892mg per serving (82% 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 jello flavors like raspberry or orange for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the salad will change accordingly, so choose one that complements the pineapple.
Is it necessary to whip the mixture?
Whipping the mixture adds air and lightness, making the salad fluffier and more enjoyable. However, if you prefer a denser consistency, you can skip this step and proceed to fold in the other ingredients directly.
Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Absolutely! You can incorporate fruits like diced strawberries, mandarin oranges, or even chopped apples for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as excess liquid may alter 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).