Cranberry Mold(Relish Mold For Thanksgiving Dinner)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A colorful, tangy cranberry and citrus gelatin mold with pineapple, nuts, and celery, perfect for festive occasions and holiday tables seeking a sweet-tart side or salad.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (3 oz.) pkg. cherry flavored gelatin
  • 1 (3 oz.) pkg. lemon flavored gelatin
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 cups boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 (8 3/4 oz.) can crushed pineapple
  • 2 cups whole fresh cranberries, ground
  • 1 small unpared orange, quartered, seeded, and ground (about 2/3 cup)
  • 1 cup diced celery

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the cherry and lemon flavored gelatin and 1/2 cup sugar in the boiling water.
  2. Add lemon juice and undrained crushed pineapple; stir well.
  3. Chill until gelatin mixture is partially set.
  4. Fold in ground cranberries, ground orange, diced celery, and chopped walnuts or pecans.
  5. Pour the gelatin mixture into an 8 1/2-cup mold.
  6. Chill until firm.
  7. Drain the pineapple slices; serve the salad with pineapple slices.

Tips & Substitutions

For a vibrant flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture; they enhance the texture and taste. If you prefer a different fruit, try adding diced apples or pears instead of the orange. To make this dish vegan, use plant-based gelatin alternatives. Ensure the cranberries are fresh for the best results, and ground them just before use to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry mold pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner. Serve it alongside Marinated Steak Or Short Ribs for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best enjoyed chilled, so if the gelatin softens, return it to the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the mold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cranberry Mold(Relish Mold For Thanksgiving Dinner) contains roughly 509 calories, with 7g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

509 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.3g 15% DV
Total Fat 26.9g 35% DV
Carbs 70g 25% DV
Fiber 6.5g 23% DV
Sugar 51.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 50.8mg 2% DV
Potassium 278mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.6mcg
Vitamin C 7.2mg 8% DV
Calcium 52.1mg 4% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 use other flavors of gelatin?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavored gelatins like raspberry or lime for a unique twist. Just ensure the flavors complement the other ingredients, especially the cranberries and pineapple, for a harmonious blend.

How do I make this mold ahead of time?

Prepare the mold a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set properly. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This dish needs to be fixed the day before you serve it for the best results.

Can I add more fruits to the mold?

Absolutely! You can add diced apples, pears, or even chopped grapes for added texture and flavor. Just ensure to balance the sweetness with the cranberries and other ingredients to maintain the overall taste.

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).

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