Cherry-Cranberry Jello Salad
A vibrant, sweet-tart cherry-cranberry jello salad with crunchy nuts and crisp celery, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions needing a colorful, refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add hot water to the cherry jello and stir until dissolved.
- Add cold water to the dissolved jello and mix well.
- Immediately fold in the whole cranberries.
- Let the mixture cool until it begins to set.
- Once cool, add the diced celery and chopped nuts.
- Refrigerate until fully firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider using fresh cranberries instead of canned. If you want to switch things up, try adding diced apples or pineapple as a substitute for the celery. You can also use walnuts or pecans in place of the chopped nuts for added crunch. Make sure the jello mixture is adequately cooled before adding the celery and nuts to maintain their crispness.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry-Cranberry Jello Salad pairs beautifully with Inez'S Sauerkraut Salad for a festive meal. Serve it as a refreshing side dish during holiday gatherings or potlucks. It complements savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham, enhancing the overall dining experience with its tart and sweet flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad will firm up even more as it chills. If it begins to lose its shape, you can briefly let it sit at room temperature before serving, but avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the jello.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Cranberry Jello Salad contains roughly 175 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 make this jello salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Cherry-Cranberry Jello Salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it's stored properly in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an ideal dish for busy holiday preparations or gatherings.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this jello salad vegan by using a plant-based gelatin alternative or a vegan jello brand. Just be sure to check the packaging for compatibility with your dietary needs, and follow the preparation instructions accordingly.
What can I serve with this jello salad?
This jello salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with various main courses. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats, such as turkey or chicken. It also complements other salads, like Louisiana Green Beans, for a colorful and tasty meal spread.
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).