Cheese, Orange Congealed Salad
A vibrant, creamy congealed salad combining tangy orange flavor, sharp cheddar, pineapple, nuts, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for potlucks and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the orange jello in hot pineapple juice.
- Add the evaporated milk and cool until thickened.
- Stir in grated sharp Cheddar, crushed pineapple, mayonnaise, chopped nuts, and chopped celery if desired.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator until the salad is firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat mayonnaise instead of light. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or use whipped cream for a sweeter version. If you're nut-free, leave out the chopped nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. For added crunch, finely chopped celery can be mixed in. This salad is reminiscent of Delight Salad, making it a delightful addition to any gathering.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or potlucks and pairs beautifully with Tavern Biscuits. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. For a fun twist, serve in individual cups for gatherings, garnished with extra maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be served chilled directly from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed. If it seems too firm after chilling, gently mix in a bit of additional mayonnaise to restore creaminess before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese, Orange Congealed Salad contains roughly 967 calories, with 11g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you will need to ensure it's juiced properly to get the right amount. Fresh pineapple juice can also be used instead of canned pineapple juice for a fresher flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes about 4 hours to set in the refrigerator, but it's best to prepare it the night before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more developed taste. Make sure it's covered to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this Cheese, Orange Congealed Salad is suitable for vegetarian diets. The ingredients are all plant-based, except for the cheese. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based mayonnaise to make it completely vegan-friendly.
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).