Countryman'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant cranberry salad with sweet-tart flavors, complemented by apples and celery, perfect for holiday gatherings and family dinners with a refreshing, fruity profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cranberries, water, and sugar together until cranberries are soft.
- Add enough water to the mixture to make 4 cups in total.
- Add cherry jello and stir until dissolved.
- When the mixture thickens, add diced apples and chopped celery.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until set.
- When chilled, serve with Golden Dressing on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the salad for a crunchy texture. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by half or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar. Make sure to use fresh cranberries for the best results, as frozen ones may alter the texture. This recipe can also be adapted for vegan diets by simply ensuring the jello is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Countryman’s Cranberry Salad as a side dish for holiday meals or barbecues, where it pairs beautifully with Tony's Barbecue Sauce. It also makes a delightful addition to a potluck. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or a light sandwich for lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, but be careful not to cook it too long as the texture can change. This salad is best served cold, so consider serving it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Countryman'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 264 calories, with 2g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Prepare it according to the recipe, allow it to set in the mold, and store in the refrigerator. This will enhance the flavors, making it a convenient option for gatherings.
What can I use instead of cherry jello?
If cherry jello is not available, you can substitute it with raspberry or strawberry jello for a similar flavor profile. Just ensure the gelatin is compatible with your dietary preferences, especially if you're following vegan recipes.
Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this Countryman’s Cranberry Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the jello brand to ensure it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive guests.
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).