Cranberry-Strawberry Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining the tartness of cranberries and strawberries with the sweetness of pineapple and jell-o. Perfect for holiday gatherings or summer picnics, this dessert offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will appeal to fruit lovers and those seeking a cool, easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the cranberry sauce until warm.
- Add the strawberry Jell-O and mix until dissolved.
- Combine the cranberry sauce mixture with the crushed pineapple and thawed strawberries.
- Mix well and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider adding mini marshmallows or chopped nuts for extra texture. You can substitute the strawberry Jell-O with raspberry or cherry for a different flavor profile. Ensure the cranberry sauce is not overly hot when mixing with Jell-O to prevent clumping. This salad pairs beautifully with American recipes like Honey Spiced Peaches for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cranberry-Strawberry Salad as a festive side at holiday gatherings or alongside grilled meats for a vibrant contrast. It also works well with a light brunch spread, complementing dishes like Potato Bread. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If the salad begins to separate, simply stir gently before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat; just serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Strawberry Salad contains roughly 92 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value).
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, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well in the fridge to maintain freshness, and give it a gentle stir before serving to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
What can I substitute for the frozen strawberries?
If you don't have frozen strawberries, fresh strawberries can be used instead. Just slice them and add them to the mixture. Alternatively, you can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor and color, keeping in line with the fruity theme.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Unfortunately, traditional Jell-O is not vegan as it contains gelatin. However, you can find plant-based gelatin alternatives or agar-agar to create a vegan version of this dish. Just ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly, such as checking the cranberry sauce for any animal-derived ingredients.
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).