Black Cherry Jello Salad
A vibrant and refreshing gelatin salad featuring the rich flavor of black cherry, complemented by sweet dark cherries and a hint of lemon. Perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions, this cool dessert offers a delightful combination of fruity sweetness and creamy texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the black cherry Jell-O, sugar, and salt in boiling water.
- Drain the cherries, measuring the syrup.
- Add water to the syrup to make 3/4 cup total.
- Add the syrup and lemon juice to the Jell-O mixture.
- Chill until the Jell-O is thickened.
- Fold half of the cherries into 1 cup of the Jell-O.
- Pour the mixture into a large mold.
- Chill until set but not firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense cherry flavor, consider using fresh cherries instead of canned ones. If you want a lighter version, substitute the whipped cream with a dollop of Greek yogurt. Ensure the Jell-O mixture is sufficiently chilled before folding in the cherries to maintain their shape. If you prefer a firmer salad, allow it to chill longer, as this can vary based on your refrigerator's temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This Black Cherry Jello Salad makes a delightful side for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Old Fashioned Chicken Dumplings or grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light salad or as part of a potluck spread. Garnish each serving with additional whipped cream or fresh cherries for a decorative touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the Jell-O will not hold up well after thawing. To serve, cut into squares directly from the mold for a neat presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Cherry Jello Salad contains roughly 173 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1763mg per serving (77% 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 a different flavor of Jell-O?
Absolutely! While black cherry gives a unique flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or strawberry. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and color will change, so choose a flavor that complements the cherries well.
How long should I chill the Jell-O salad?
Typically, chilling the salad for about 4 hours should be adequate for it to set properly. If you're in a hurry, chilling it for at least 2 hours may suffice, but the texture might not be as firm. Always check for the desired consistency before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Black Cherry Jello Salad is suitable for vegetarians as it uses gelatin from plant sources. However, always check the gelatin packaging to confirm it aligns with your dietary restrictions, as some gelatins can be animal-derived.
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).