Cherry Cheese Salad
A creamy, sweet cherry cheese salad combining cream cheese, maraschino cherries, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream, perfect for entertaining or a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese with cherry juice until smooth.
- Add chopped maraschino cherries, drained crushed pineapple, and marshmallows; stir until well combined.
- Fold in whipped cream or Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese or Cool Whip. You can also substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries for a more natural flavor. This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cherry Cheese Salad as a delightful side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be a sweet addition to a brunch spread alongside dishes like the Country Breakfast Special(Microwave Recipe). Garnish with additional cherries or a sprinkle of coconut for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This salad is best served chilled, so there's no need to reheat. If it seems a bit thick after storing, gently fold in a small amount of whipping cream or cherry juice to refresh its texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cheese Salad contains roughly 1469 calories, with 28g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (173% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and protein (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1635mg per serving (71% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the Cherry Cheese Salad a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I substitute for whipped cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute whipped cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat whipped topping. This will still give you that creamy texture while cutting down on the calories. Just fold it in gently to maintain the fluffiness of the salad.
Is it possible to use fresh fruit instead of maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used in place of maraschino cherries for a more natural flavor. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding. This substitution will add a fresher taste and a lovely pop of color to the salad.
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).