Autumn Gold Salad
A refreshing autumn-inspired salad featuring tangy lemon flavors, crisp apples, and creamy cheese, perfect for light gatherings and festive occasions with a delightful chilled presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make jello according to package directions.
- Cool slightly and add sour cream, lemon juice, grated onion, and salt.
- Beat until smooth and chill until partly set.
- Fold in shredded Cheddar cheese, diced apples, and chopped celery or green pepper.
- Fold in whipped cream.
- Spoon into a 6 to 6 1/2-cup mold.
- Chill until firm.
- Unmold on lettuce and trim with lemon-brushed apple slices, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the whipped cream is folded in gently to maintain its volume. You can substitute the diced apples with pears for a different flavor profile, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste. If you're short on time, pre-made whipped cream can save you a step. This dish is a great way to utilize seasonal fruits and can be customized with nuts for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Autumn Gold Salad makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can serve as a refreshing starter. Consider serving it alongside Red Apple Inn Rolls(From Heber Springs) for a comforting meal. For a festive touch, garnish with additional apple slices and a sprig of mint.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if it starts to separate, gently stir it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the jello and whipped cream may change. To refresh leftovers, you can add a bit of fresh diced apple or a sprinkle of cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Autumn Gold Salad contains roughly 190 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1142mg per serving (50% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, but it’s best to wait to fold in the whipped cream until just before serving to maintain its light texture.
What can I use instead of lemon jello?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute lemon jello with lime jello for a tangy twist or even use a sugar-free jello option if you’re looking for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the taste and color will slightly change, but it will still result in a delicious salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Autumn Gold Salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. The ingredients are all plant-based except for the dairy, making it a great option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just be mindful of any dietary restrictions regarding dairy when serving.
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).