Cousin Judy'S Cassola Salad
A vibrant and tropical salad combining sweet pineapple, mandarin oranges, and acini de pepe, dressed in a luscious pineapple-flavored custard, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, flour, and salt.
- Stir in pineapple juice and beaten eggs.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Add lemon juice and cool to room temperature.
- Mix the cooled custard into the cooked and drained acini de pepe.
- Let the mixture sit for one hour.
- Add drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and crushed pineapple.
- Refrigerate until chilled and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar. You can also swap in fresh fruit instead of canned for a fresher taste. Ensure the acini de pepe is cooked al dente to maintain a good texture. If you want a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs beautifully with Aunt Winona'S Fruit Salad for a refreshing spread. Serve it as a side dish or a dessert, and consider garnishing with mint leaves for a pop of color. It also complements grilled meats, making it an excellent addition to any barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully as it chills, but the texture may soften. To serve leftovers, simply enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cousin Judy'S Cassola Salad contains roughly 479 calories, with 7g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1031mg per serving (45% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it after mixing in the fruits to allow the flavors to develop. However, it's best to add the fruit just before serving to maintain their texture and freshness.
What can I substitute for acini de pepe?
If you can't find acini de pepe, you can use couscous or orzo as alternatives. They won't have the same texture, but they will work well in the salad. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep them al dente.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this salad is suitable for vegetarian diets as it contains no meat or fish. It features a delightful mix of fruits and a creamy custard base, making it a great option for those looking for vegetarian recipes. Just ensure any additional toppings you add are also vegetarian.
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).