Cherry Pineapple Salad
A luscious and easy-to-make fruit salad combining sweet cherries, pineapple, and creamy whipped topping with crunchy nuts. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings, its vibrant flavors and sweet-tangy profile make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cherry pie filling, lemon juice, and drained crushed pineapple.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Fold in the chopped nuts and Cool Whip until smooth and creamy.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with Greek yogurt and use a low-fat whipped topping. If you're short on time, consider using pre-chopped nuts or even granola for added crunch. Feel free to customize with other fruits like mandarin oranges or blueberries for a twist. This recipe can also be made ahead of time for gatherings, making it perfect for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Pineapple Salad makes a delightful side dish for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Sally'S Pork Chop Casserole or All American Corn Bread for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed. Simply stir before serving if it separates slightly after storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Pineapple Salad contains roughly 500 calories, with 11g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium.
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 cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
While fresh cherries can be used, they will require additional sweetening. You can simmer them with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a saucy consistency similar to cherry pie filling. This will enhance the flavor and give a fresher twist to the salad.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, to make this Cherry Pineapple Salad vegan, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or a vegan condensed milk. Use a dairy-free whipped topping in place of Cool Whip for a delicious vegan-friendly dessert.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color, consider mixing in vibrant fruits such as diced strawberries, kiwi, or blueberries. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add different flavor dimensions to your Cherry Pineapple Salad, making it even more enjoyable and festive.
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).