Bill'S Strawberry Congealed Salad
A colorful and fruity layered salad featuring strawberries, bananas, pineapple, and pecans, topped with creamy sour cream, perfect for potlucks or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve both packages of strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Mix mashed bananas, frozen strawberries in syrup, and drained crushed pineapple.
- Pour half of the fruit mixture into a dish or Jell-O mold and let it congeal for about an hour.
- Spread sour cream evenly over the congealed layer.
- Add the remaining fruit mixture on top and let the salad congeal completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the bananas are well-mashed and mix them thoroughly with the other fruits. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds for crunch. Consider using fresh strawberries if you have them on hand, as they can add a lovely flavor and texture. This recipe can easily be adapted for other fruits to create variations.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings or holiday dinners. Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted meats or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Florida Sweet Corn Cakes for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with additional chopped pecans for added texture and a pop of color on the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may continue to congeal, so it’s best enjoyed shortly after preparation. If it appears too firm, you can gently stir it to loosen before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the fruit.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bill'S Strawberry Congealed Salad contains roughly 364 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 6g 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 sugar-free Jell-O for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute sugar-free Jell-O for the regular strawberry Jell-O if you're looking for a lower-calorie option. The taste and texture will be slightly different, but it will still set well and provide a delicious fruity flavor.
What if I don’t have frozen strawberries?
If frozen strawberries are unavailable, you can use fresh strawberries, but you may want to slice them and sprinkle a little sugar to help release their juices. Alternatively, you could use other frozen berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this salad more visually appealing?
To enhance the visual appeal, consider layering the fruit and sour cream in a clear glass dish. You can also add fresh mint leaves as a garnish or use a variety of fruits for added color. Using a Jell-O mold can create an impressive presentation when served at gatherings.
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).