Cottage Cheese Lime Salad
A refreshing and creamy cottage cheese salad with zesty lime and lemon flavors, enhanced by pineapple and walnuts, perfect for light gatherings or brunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a very large bowl, dissolve the lime and lemon jello in boiling water.
- Chill until the mixture thickens but is not fully set.
- Add mayonnaise or salad dressing and blend well.
- Stir in the creamed cottage cheese, crushed pineapple, evaporated milk, and chopped walnuts.
- Spoon the mixture into a 12-cup fluted tube mold.
- Chill until the salad is firm.
- Serve on a leaf lettuce bed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat mayonnaise or salad dressing. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. Consider adding chopped fresh mint for a refreshing twist or mixing in diced fruit like strawberries for added sweetness. To speed up the chilling process, place the bowl in a larger bowl filled with ice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad on a bed of crisp leaf lettuce for an appealing presentation. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light lunch or as a side for a holiday meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Grandma Edith Nollan'S Cranberry-Orange Bread. Garnish with additional walnuts or pineapple for extra flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can lose its firmness, so if you prefer it firmer, you can remake it by re-dissolving the jello and re-mixing the ingredients. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cottage cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cottage Cheese Lime Salad contains roughly 972 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 662mg per serving (29% 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 different flavors of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with other jello flavors like orange or raspberry. Just keep in mind that the taste will change, and the color may vary as well. Mixing flavors can create a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
How long does the salad need to chill?
The salad should chill for at least 4 hours or until firm. For best results, prepare it the night before and let it set overnight. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is suitable for vegetarians. All the ingredients, including jello, mayonnaise, and cottage cheese, are plant-based or vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful addition to any vegetarian meal.
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).