Cran-Waldorf Salad
A refreshing fruity salad with tart cranberry flavor, crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and a delicate gelatin base, perfect for light desserts or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 cup of cranberry juice to boiling in a small pan.
- Add the lemon gelatin to the boiling juice and stir until dissolved.
- Add the remaining cranberry juice and salt. Chill until the mixture is partially set.
- Stir in chopped apple, chopped celery, and coarsely broken walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into oiled individual molds or a loaf pan.
- Chill until fully set, then unmold onto pineapple slices.
- Top each serving with a teaspoon of mayonnaise.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Cran-Waldorf Salad, consider using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of lemon gelatin for a more natural taste. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. You can also add dried cranberries for a chewy texture and additional sweetness. For a twist, try incorporating ingredients from American recipes like apricots or peaches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cran-Waldorf Salad chilled, garnished with additional walnut pieces for crunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside dishes like Peach Or Cherry Crisp, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures on your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may become slightly watery as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. It's not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the gelatin may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cran-Waldorf Salad contains roughly 244 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% 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 the Cran-Waldorf Salad a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and allow it to chill overnight in the refrigerator. This will give the flavors more time to meld together, making it even tastier when served.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with pecans or sliced almonds. Both options will add a lovely crunch to the salad while complementing the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in the Cran-Waldorf Salad are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on the gelatin and mayonnaise to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have a gluten intolerance.
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).