Banana Cherry Salad
Banana Cherry Salad is a delightful frozen dessert combining sweet bananas and maraschino cherries with creamy sour cream and Cool Whip. Its refreshing, fruity flavor makes it perfect for hot days or special occasions, offering a cool, sweet treat that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large flat pan, mash the bananas into small pieces.
- Add lemon juice and sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the chopped maraschino cherries, sour cream, and Cool Whip until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into a container and freeze.
- Serve frozen or allow thawing for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Make sure to mash the bananas well to avoid large chunks, ensuring a smooth consistency. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Cherry Salad is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs beautifully with Fruited Blue Cheese Dressing as a side. Serve it as a refreshing dessert after a light meal or alongside a barbecue. For added texture, consider garnishing with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of toasted coconut before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. If you want to enjoy the salad later, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. To serve, you can also let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for easier scooping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Cherry Salad contains roughly 238 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% 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 fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries for a healthier option. Just be sure to pit and chop them before adding to the salad. Fresh cherries will provide a more natural flavor and can complement the sweetness of the bananas well.
How long can I keep this salad in the freezer?
The Banana Cherry Salad can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. After that, it may lose its texture and flavor. To maintain the best quality, store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Banana Cherry Salad is suitable for vegetarians. All the ingredients used, including bananas, maraschino cherries, sugar, lemon juice, sour cream, and Cool Whip, are vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful choice for those following a vegetarian diet.
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).