Clara'S Jello Salad
A creamy and fruity Jello salad featuring strawberries, pineapple, cranberries, and banana, layered with sour cream, perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together Jell-O, hot water, crushed pineapple, cranberries, mashed banana, and frozen strawberries.
- Pour half of the mixture into a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Let stand until firm, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Spread sour cream evenly over the layer.
- Pour the remaining Jell-O mixture over the sour cream layer.
- Let cool until fully firm.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a different flavor, try raspberry or cherry Jell-O. To enhance the texture, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Ensure that the fruit is well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the setting. This dish pairs beautifully with Lemon Gem Muffins With Cream Cheese for a delightful brunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or family gatherings. This salad pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork. For a festive touch, garnish with mint leaves or additional fresh strawberries. It's also a great accompaniment to desserts like Coconut Rum Pound Cake for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing the Jello salad, as it may become watery upon thawing. If the salad begins to separate, gently stir before serving to restore its appearance.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clara'S Jello Salad contains roughly 214 calories, with 2g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 Jello salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. This allows the flavors to meld, and it will be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
What can I substitute for crushed pineapple?
If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can use finely chopped peaches or mango for a different fruit flavor. Alternatively, you can omit the fruit altogether or use a different fruit puree to maintain the sweetness and texture of the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Jello salad is suitable for vegetarians. However, confirm that the Jell-O you use does not contain any animal-derived gelatin, as some brands may include it. Look for plant-based gelatin alternatives if necessary.
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).