Congealed Cheese Salad
A nostalgic, creamy congealed cheese salad featuring pineapple, nuts, and cherries, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings, offering a sweet and savory flavor blend.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon or lime jello and marshmallows in 1 cup hot water.
- Let the mixture thicken.
- Mix crushed pineapple with cream cheese.
- Add the pineapple and cream cheese mixture to the jello mixture.
- Stir in the nuts and drained cherries.
- Pour into a mold or dish and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. If you want to reduce sweetness, consider using sugar-free jello or replacing some marshmallows with diced apples or celery for a savory twist. For added flavor, a splash of lemon juice can enhance the jello. This dish can also be made with orange jello for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this congealed cheese salad as a delightful side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be a refreshing addition to a brunch spread. Consider serving alongside other American recipes like Upside-Down Vegetable Cake for a varied menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop out. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the jello and cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Congealed Cheese Salad contains roughly 2024 calories, with 43g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 160g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (165% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and iron (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2101mg per serving (91% 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 a different flavor of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with different jello flavors such as orange or raspberry to customize the taste. Each flavor will bring a unique twist to the salad, so feel free to choose your favorite or what you have on hand.
How long does it take for the salad to set?
Typically, it takes about 4 to 6 hours for the congealed cheese salad to set completely in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving to ensure it firms up nicely.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this congealed cheese salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, always check specific jello brands to ensure they use vegetarian-friendly gelatin.
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).