Cherry-Coke Gelatin Salad
A vibrant cherry and pineapple gelatin salad infused with Coca-Cola, perfect for parties or family gatherings, offering a sweet, tangy, and nutty flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve cherry gelatin in boiling water.
- Add drained red sweet pitted cherries, sugar, undrained crushed pineapple, and pecan pieces to the gelatin mixture.
- Pour chilled Coca-Cola down the side of the bowl, mixing carefully.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Refrigerate until congealed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer gelatin salad, use a little less Coca-Cola or add an extra packet of gelatin. If you can't find red sweet pitted cherries, you can substitute with maraschino cherries for added sweetness. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the mixture. This dish is a playful alternative to traditional salads, similar to Mary Miller'S Orange Balls in its fun presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry-Coke Gelatin Salad makes a delightful side dish for barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Grilled Amberjack for a refreshing meal. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint or whipped cream before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep the gelatin from becoming too watery, avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods. If you prefer a chilled dessert, serve it straight from the fridge. Reheating isn’t recommended, as the gelatin will lose its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Coke Gelatin Salad contains roughly 205 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 diet soda in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular Coca-Cola with a diet version. Just keep in mind that the overall sweetness and texture may be slightly different, as diet sodas often contain artificial sweeteners. However, it should still provide a refreshing flavor to your gelatin salad.
How long does it take for the gelatin to set?
Typically, the gelatin will take about 4 to 6 hours to fully congeal in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it a day in advance if you're planning to serve it for an event or gathering. This allows ample time for the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To create a vegan version of this Cherry-Coke Gelatin Salad, you can use plant-based gelatin alternatives such as agar-agar. Check the package instructions for the correct ratios, as they differ from traditional gelatin. This way, you can enjoy a similar texture while adhering to vegan recipes.
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).