Cranberry Apple Salad Mold
A vibrant, fruity salad mold combining tart cranberries, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans, ideal for festive gatherings or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften gelatin in cold water.
- Combine sugar and water and bring to a boil.
- Add cranberries and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in softened gelatin until dissolved.
- Cool the mixture and fold in diced apples, pecan halves, and diced celery.
- Pour into a 1 1/2-quart mold and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved before mixing in the fruits. You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used; just thaw them before cooking. This salad also pairs beautifully with Light And Fruity Salad for a refreshing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Unmold the salad onto a serving platter for an impressive presentation. Garnish with additional pecans or fresh cranberries for a festive touch. This mold makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals and pairs well with savory dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats or as part of a buffet spread. It also complements sweets like Strawberry Bavarian Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture. To refresh the salad before serving, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Apple Salad Mold contains roughly 223 calories, with 1g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 up to two days in advance. Just prepare it, let it set in the mold, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of gelatin for a vegetarian option?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative to unflavored gelatin. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for substituting agar-agar, as it has different setting properties and may require adjustments in the liquid ratios.
How do I enhance the flavor of the salad?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cranberry mixture. You can also incorporate some chopped dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
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).