Cherry Gelatin Salad
A refreshing and sweet cherry gelatin salad with pineapple and pecans, perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat the Jell-O and crushed pineapple until dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool.
- In a bowl, add the buttermilk, Cool Whip, chopped pecans, and the Jell-O and pineapple mixture.
- Mix well to combine.
- Let chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk. If you're looking to add a twist, try substituting the cherry Jell-O with raspberry or strawberry. Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor; simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Make sure to let the mixture cool sufficiently before adding the Cool Whip to maintain its fluffiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cherry Gelatin Salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be a delightful dessert on its own. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves. This dish is a fantastic complement to recipes like Peach Ambrosia, creating a vibrant spread for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so there's no need to reheat it. If it starts to separate, give it a gentle stir before serving. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination and prolong freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Gelatin Salad contains roughly 1056 calories, with 15g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 14g 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it. Fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent the Jell-O from setting properly, so briefly cooking the fresh pineapple before adding it to the mixture can help. This way, you’ll get the best texture and flavor in your salad.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
To make this Cherry Gelatin Salad vegan, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar. Use a plant-based whipped topping instead of Cool Whip and consider using coconut milk or almond milk in place of buttermilk. These adjustments will keep the flavors intact while accommodating a vegan diet.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
The salad typically takes about 4 to 6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures a firmer texture when you’re ready to enjoy it.
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).