Big Mama'S Cranberry Salad
A sweet and tangy cranberry salad featuring crushed cranberries, pineapple, whipped cream, and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed cranberries and sugar; let stand for 2 hours or more.
- Whip the cream until soft peaks form.
- Combine marshmallows with the whipped cream.
- Let the mixture stand for 2 hours or more.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple and chopped nuts to the cranberry mixture.
- Mix well and let stand overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the whipping cream. If you want a different texture, try adding diced apples or pecans instead of the nuts. Ensure the cranberries are crushed finely for a smoother consistency. Letting the mixture sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a perfect side dish for holiday meals, pairing wonderfully with roasted meats or served alongside dishes like Sondra's Strawberry Bread. For a festive touch, garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of coconut. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become a bit watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and marshmallows may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big Mama'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 1541 calories, with 19g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (102% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% 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 cranberry salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Allow it to chill overnight in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. Just be sure to stir it before serving to redistribute any liquid that may have accumulated.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent choices for this cranberry salad, adding a nice crunch. If you prefer a milder flavor, slivered almonds can also work well. Just ensure they are toasted for added depth.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the whipping cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar, and ensure the marshmallows are vegan-friendly. This will give you a delicious, plant-based alternative.
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).