Cranberry-Sour Cream Salad
A vibrant and creamy cranberry salad featuring cherry gelatin, whole berry cranberry sauce, crunchy celery, and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cherry flavored gelatin with hot water and let it congeal slightly.
- Mix the cranberry sauce, chopped celery, chopped nuts, and sour cream in a bowl.
- Stir the cranberry mixture into the partially congealed gelatin.
- Pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate until set.
- Serve on lettuce with mayonnaise.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. If you prefer a different flavor, raspberry or strawberry gelatin can work well. Make sure to let the gelatin cool slightly before mixing in the other ingredients to prevent curdling the sour cream. Adding finely diced apples can enhance the texture and flavor, making it a delightful addition to this vegetarian recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing appetizer or side dish. It pairs beautifully with Pecan Corn Bread for a hearty meal. For a festive touch, garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for potlucks and holiday gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing, as it may alter the creamy consistency. Enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Sour Cream Salad contains roughly 96 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is tightly covered and refrigerated. The flavors will meld beautifully, and it will be ready to serve when you need it. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cranberry-Sour Cream Salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients other than dairy. It's a great option for those following vegetarian recipes, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table.
What can I use instead of cherry gelatin?
If cherry gelatin isn't available, you can substitute it with raspberry or strawberry gelatin for a similar flavor profile. Both options will complement the cranberry sauce well. Just ensure that the gelatin is a similar color to maintain the visual appeal of 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).