Cherry Cranberry Salad
A vibrant, sweet-tart cherry cranberry salad with marshmallows and pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry jello in hot water in a pan on the burner; stir in the cranberry sauce while hot and continue stirring until dissolved.
- Let the mixture chill until it becomes thick and syrupy.
- Gently fold in the sour cream.
- Add the crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and mini marshmallows.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat sour cream instead of low-fat. You can also substitute the crushed pineapple with chopped mandarin oranges for a different flavor. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try using walnuts instead of pecans. Be sure to let the jello mixture cool completely before folding in the sour cream to prevent it from curdling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cherry Cranberry Salad as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with herbed potato wedges and roasted meats. For a delightful dessert option, consider serving it alongside divinity fudge or bonbons. This salad is also a hit at brunch events, complementing breakfast casseroles perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may thicken slightly as it sits, so consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream before serving to refresh its texture. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cranberry Salad contains roughly 294 calories, with 4g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just ensure you cover it well and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh its consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cherry Cranberry Salad is completely vegetarian-friendly. The ingredients used, including jello, sour cream, and canned cranberry sauce, do not contain any meat products. It's a delightful addition to any vegetarian recipes spread, especially during festive occasions.
What can I substitute for mini marshmallows?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mini marshmallows, consider using chopped fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for added texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can use yogurt-covered raisins for a similar sweetness and chewiness without the added sugar of traditional marshmallows.
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).