Carrie'S Cranberry Salad
Carrie's Cranberry Salad offers a delightful blend of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy nuts, all suspended in a tangy cherry jello. Perfect as a festive side or dessert, it appeals to those who enjoy fruity, refreshing dishes with a hint of citrus and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the cranberries; pour sugar, salt, and lemon juice over cranberries.
- Mix and let stand for 2 hours.
- Mix cherry jello with boiling water.
- When cool and syrupy, add the jello mixture to the cranberries, along with the chopped nuts and drained crushed pineapple.
- Place in the refrigerator until firm.
- This salad may be frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter twist, consider adding a touch of orange zest to the mixture. If you’re short on time, you can substitute fresh cranberries with canned cranberry sauce, although the texture will differ. If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the chopped nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. This salad can also be made a day in advance for added convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad is a delightful accompaniment to holiday meals, especially alongside turkey or ham. It pairs beautifully with Sweet And Sour Salad, creating a festive spread. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or serving it in individual cups for an elegant presentation. It’s also great as a light dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze the salad, ensure it’s fully set before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results, and enjoy it chilled for a refreshing taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrie'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 83 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% 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 frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before grinding. Keep in mind that frozen cranberries might yield a slightly different texture, but the flavor will remain delicious.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already quite close to being vegan-friendly! To ensure it’s completely plant-based, just check the jello for any animal-derived ingredients, as some brands may include gelatin. You can look for vegan jello alternatives available in stores.
What can I serve this salad with?
Carrie's Cranberry Salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish or dessert. It pairs well with roasted meats, like turkey or chicken, and complements rich dishes nicely. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Virginia Pickles or Gingered Carrots for a balanced flavor profile.
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).