Cherry Salad
Cherry salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines sweet cherry pie filling with tangy crushed pineapple and crunchy pecans. Topped with fluffy Cool Whip and miniature marshmallows, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or family picnics, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the Cool Whip. If you prefer a crunchier salad, consider adding sliced almonds or walnuts instead of pecans. To enhance flavors, a splash of vanilla extract can be mixed in. This Cherry Salad can also be made with fresh cherries when in season for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cherry Salad chilled as a refreshing dessert or as a side dish at barbecues and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Crunch for a delightful mix of flavors. For a festive touch, garnish with additional pecans or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become watery over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the Cool Whip and fruit will change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Salad contains roughly 834 calories, with 13g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 585mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 canned cherry pie filling?
Yes, using fresh cherries can enhance the flavor of the salad. Just remember to pit and chop them before mixing. You might need to add a sweetener, like sugar or honey, to balance the tartness of the fresh fruit.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To lighten up the Cherry Salad, consider using light Cool Whip or a whipped coconut cream alternative. You can also reduce the amount of pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a lower-calorie option while still adding crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cherry Salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or meat-derived ingredients. It's a great option for those looking for American recipes that cater to vegetarian diets, making it ideal for gatherings.
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).