Betty'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, tart cranberry salad blended with crushed pineapple and sweetened with sugar, topped with Cool Whip for a cool, refreshing treat perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind cranberries in a blender.
- Cover cranberries with water in the blender, then drain.
- Add sugar to the cranberries and let set overnight or for 6 hours.
- Drain the crushed pineapple and the cranberries.
- Fold in Cool Whip no more than 2 hours before serving.
- This salad is freezable.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the cranberries while they soak. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. For a lighter option, you can substitute Cool Whip with a homemade whipped cream or a plant-based whipped topping for vegan recipes. Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant cranberry salad as a festive side dish during holiday meals, or as a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with Microwave Scalloped Potatoes or can be enjoyed on its own. Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. It also makes a delightful addition to brunch spreads or potluck gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the salad, but it may alter the texture of the Cool Whip. To serve leftovers, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying it again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 231 calories, with 1g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for this salad. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before grinding. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor balance in the salad.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar content and use a sugar substitute if desired. Additionally, swapping out Cool Whip for a low-fat or dairy-free whipped topping can make it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for crunch, or mix in mini marshmallows for added sweetness. You can also experiment with different fruits, like diced apples or pears, to give it your personal touch.
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).