Cold Spiced Fruit
A refreshing and tangy fruit salad infused with warm spices and jello, perfect for summer gatherings and those who enjoy a sweet, spiced fruit medley.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut orange slices in half; place in water and simmer until rind is tender.
- Drain the orange slices well.
- Drain canned fruit; reserve all pineapple juice, half of apricot and peach juice.
- Combine the reserved juices, sugar, vinegar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and the cherry jello in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Pour the hot liquid over the mixed drained fruit.
- Refrigerate the dish for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice to the simmering mixture. You can substitute the cherry jello with raspberry or strawberry jello for a different fruit profile. For a vegan version, opt for agave syrup instead of sugar and ensure the jello is plant-based. This dish is a great complement to American recipes like grilled meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Cold Spiced Fruit as a side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork. For a delightful dessert, spoon it over vanilla ice cream or yogurt. This dish also complements flavors found in Grandma's Gelatin, making it a perfect addition to a summertime spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the fruit even tastier. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruit may change. To serve, simply scoop out the desired amount and enjoy cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Spiced Fruit contains roughly 748 calories, with 11g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (149% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and calcium (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 473mg per serving (21% 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 fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit! Just ensure the fruit is ripe and cut into similar sizes to the canned versions. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may require additional sweetening, so taste the mixture before pouring it over.
How long does this dish last once prepared?
Once prepared, Cold Spiced Fruit can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
Is it possible to make this dish without sugar?
Absolutely! You can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute suitable for your dietary needs. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as some sweeteners are sweeter than sugar.
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).