Cranberry Mold Salad
A vibrant cranberry mold salad combining tangy cranberries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy nuts, perfect as a refreshing side or holiday centerpiece for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the cranberries using a grinder, not a blender.
- Mix the ground cranberries, crushed pineapple, orange (without peel), sugar, chopped nuts, and chopped celery.
- Dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in half the specified liquid and let it cool slightly.
- Combine the Jell-O with the mixed ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the mix. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen ones can work as a substitute, just ensure they are thawed and drained. You can also swap out the nuts for seeds if you're looking for a nut-free version. Additionally, try using a flavored gelatin like raspberry for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Mold Salad is a delightful side for holiday meals, pairing well with roasted meats or served alongside American recipes like turkey or ham. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. It also complements dishes like Piquant Sauce, enhancing its fresh and tangy notes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed. If the salad becomes too soft, you can re-chill it briefly in the fridge before serving to firm it up again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Mold Salad contains roughly 371 calories, with 5g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. 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?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it's well covered while it sets in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of Jell-O?
If you're looking for a gelatin-free option, you can substitute Jell-O with agar-agar or a similar plant-based gelling agent. Follow the package instructions for the right proportions, ensuring to achieve a similar texture and setting time.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by using a plant-based gelatin alternative instead of strawberry Jell-O. Additionally, ensure that the nuts and other ingredients are also certified vegan to maintain the dish's integrity.
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).