Cherry Jell-O Salad
A creamy, fruity cherry Jell-O salad combining whipped cream, sweet milk, cherry flavor, pineapple, nuts, coconut, and marshmallows for a delightful dessert or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Chill in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a low-fat whipped topping instead of regular Cool Whip. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract or a handful of maraschino cherries. You can substitute chopped walnuts for pecans or use unsweetened shredded coconut to reduce sweetness. The balance of flavors makes it a delightful complement to other dishes like 'Low-Fat' Spiced Zucchini Bread.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Jell-O Salad is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a dessert option. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Tomato Somerset or a slice of Old-Fashioned Double-Lemon Cake. Consider garnishing with fresh cherries or mint for an extra touch when serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may lose some of its texture over time, but it will still taste delicious. Avoid freezing as it may alter the consistency of the whipped topping and jello. When ready to serve again, simply give it a gentle stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Jell-O Salad contains roughly 1301 calories, with 17g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (65% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. It also contributes 17g 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?
Absolutely! In fact, it's best to make Cherry Jell-O Salad at least a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together and the jello to set properly. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or raspberry for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, using fresh or frozen cherries with a bit of sugar and cornstarch can create a homemade version that is equally delicious.
Is it possible to make this salad without nuts?
Yes, you can easily omit the pecans if you have nut allergies or simply prefer not to include them. The salad will still be tasty without them, or you could replace them with sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch.
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).