Butterfly Salad
A light, fruity dessert combining pineapple, cherries, cottage cheese, and whipped cream, perfect for a refreshing treat suitable for all ages and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the crushed pineapple and pour it into the prepared lemon Jello; let it cool until set.
- Once cooled and set, fold in cottage cheese, halved cherries, and chopped pecans.
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form and fold into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 6-cup mold and refrigerate until chilled and firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and substituting Greek yogurt for the whipped cream. If you can’t find fresh cherries, canned ones work well too. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your salad. Allow the Jello to set completely for the best texture, similar to the popular Ohio State Buckeyes dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This Butterfly Salad is perfect as a light dessert or a refreshing side dish at summer gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a festive brunch spread. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside Quick Hot Muffins for a sweet and savory combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can lose some of its texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to rehydrate the salad slightly, you can add a bit of whipped cream just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterfly Salad contains roughly 323 calories, with 12g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Prepare it and refrigerate until firm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it is covered properly to maintain freshness.
What other fruits can I use in this salad?
You can customize the salad by adding fruits like diced peaches, mandarin oranges, or even strawberries. Just keep the overall liquid content in check to maintain the Jello's setting ability.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Butterfly Salad is a vegetarian recipe as it contains no meat or meat by-products. It's a delightful option for those seeking a fruity, creamy dish without any animal-derived ingredients.
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).