Cheesy Cherry Salad
A sweet, creamy cherry and pineapple salad with pecans and coconut, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cherry pie filling, drained crushed pineapple, Eagle Brand milk, Cool Whip, pecans, and coconut in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Chill the mixture overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat coconut cream instead of Cool Whip. If you want a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans and add extra coconut for crunch. For added flavor, a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the overall taste. This Cheesy Cherry Salad is a great option for potlucks and pairs beautifully with American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheesy Cherry Salad chilled as a delightful dessert or side dish at gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with lighter fare such as grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad. For a festive touch, you can garnish with extra cherries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day, but be cautious of the coconut and pecans, which may lose their texture over time. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping can separate when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Cherry Salad contains roughly 1112 calories, with 15g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (111% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 641mg 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 use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
While fresh cherries can be used, they will not provide the same sweetness and consistency as pie filling. If you choose fresh cherries, consider adding sugar and a thickening agent to mimic the flavor and texture of cherry pie filling.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients. Always double-check labels on canned goods like cherry pie filling to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I make this salad more tropical?
To give your Cheesy Cherry Salad a tropical twist, you can add diced mango or banana along with the pineapple. You could also substitute the pecans with macadamia nuts for an extra tropical flavor.
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).