Black Bing Cherry Salad
A refreshing cherry salad featuring black Bing cherries, nuts, and a light gelatin mold, perfect for festive occasions or elegant summer desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the juice from one of the cans of cherries, sherry wine, 1 1/2 cups of orange juice, and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Dissolve Knox gelatin in 1/2 cup of orange juice separately.
- Pour the hot mixture over the dissolved gelatin and stir until well combined.
- When the mixture is partially set, put cherries stuffed with pecans or almonds into the hot juice.
- Mold the mixture in a large ring or individual molds and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh cherries if they're in season, or swap out sherry wine for a fruity white wine for a different profile. If you prefer a lower-sugar option, you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved for a smooth texture. For a fun twist, try adding a splash of almond extract for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Black Bing Cherry Salad chilled as a refreshing dessert or a unique side dish at your next gathering. It pairs beautifully with Paula'S Wedding Punch for a festive touch. Garnish with additional nuts or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or grilled chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin may continue to firm up, so if you want to serve it again, consider letting it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may change the texture of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Bing Cherry Salad contains roughly 570 calories, with 9g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 13g 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 fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just make sure to pit and halve them before adding them to the gelatin mixture. Fresh cherries will give the salad a brighter flavor and a different texture compared to canned cherries.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes about 4-6 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. However, for best results, prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight to ensure a firm consistency.
What can I use instead of Knox gelatin?
If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider using agar-agar or pectin instead of Knox gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the equivalent amount needed, as the setting properties may vary.
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).