Bridal Salad
A refreshing layered salad with tangy Jell-O, sweet fruits, crunchy walnuts, and creamy dressing, perfect for festive gatherings and light, fruity desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make Jell-O as directed using pineapple juice with water and let it set until it just begins to firm.
- Beat in cream cheese and Miracle Whip into the partially set Jell-O until smooth.
- Stir in chopped celery, halved grapes, chopped walnuts, and halved cherries.
- Pour into a mold or dish and chill until completely set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating it into the Jell-O mixture. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can substitute half of the Miracle Whip with Greek yogurt. You can also use sugar-free Jell-O for a lighter version. This salad is reminiscent of American recipes like the Green Chiffon Salad, which also uses Jell-O as a base.
Serving Suggestions
This colorful Bridal Salad makes a great addition to potlucks or holiday gatherings. Serve it alongside savory dishes like Grandma's Cornbread or as a refreshing side with lunch. It pairs beautifully with desserts such as Cherry Fluff Frosting for a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the salad, as it may become watery upon thawing. When ready to serve, simply scoop out the desired portion; there's no need to reheat as this dish is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bridal Salad contains roughly 624 calories, with 13g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 651mg per serving (28% 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 salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge. It will taste even better as the flavors meld together overnight.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. Alternatively, you could use chopped pecans for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Bridal Salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, ensure that the Jell-O used is vegetarian-friendly, as some gelatin-based products may not be. Always check the label for vegetarian certification.
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).