Cranberry Sauce Jello Salad
A refreshing and tangy cranberry jello salad with fruit, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions, served chilled with a creamy topping for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the cranberry sauce until it bubbles.
- Remove from heat and add the jello packet; stir until fully dissolved.
- Add the crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 10 x 7 x 2-inch pan and let it set in the refrigerator until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve on lettuce or watercress.
- Top with cream dressing before serving.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using cranberry sauce with whole berries instead of smooth. If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute the raspberry or lemon jello with another flavor, such as orange or cherry. You can add chopped nuts for a crunch, or replace the mandarin oranges with fresh sliced strawberries for a unique twist. Always ensure the jello is fully dissolved for a smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Sauce Jello Salad is a delightful addition to any holiday table, pairing beautifully with roasted meats. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or watercress for a fresh touch. It also complements dishes like Ever Crisp Onion Rings or Bar-B-Que Salad from Fort Morgan, Colorado. For a festive look, top with a dollop of whipped cream or your favorite cream dressing before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover jello salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain its firmness, avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods. It’s best served chilled, so there's no need to reheat. Simply take it out of the fridge when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Sauce Jello Salad contains roughly 131 calories, with 1g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries! Cook them with sugar and water until they burst and make a sauce. This fresh version will give your jello salad a more vibrant taste, but make sure to cool it down before mixing with the jello.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this jello salad vegan, use a plant-based gelatin alternative instead of traditional jello. Agar-agar is a great option that sets similarly. Ensure that your cranberry sauce and any other ingredients are also vegan-friendly, and you'll have a delicious vegan version of this classic dish.
What can I use if I don't have crushed pineapple?
If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can substitute it with diced peaches or even applesauce for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that any fruit you choose is well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
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).