Cream Cheese And Pear Salad
A refreshing and creamy fruit salad combining orange jello, pineapple, pears, and cream cheese—perfect for a light dessert or brunch with a sweet, tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the orange jello according to the package directions, using fruit juices as part of the liquid.
- When the jello begins to set, add the drained canned pears and crushed pineapple.
- Whip the cream cheese until smooth and blend it into the partially set jello mixture.
- Let the salad stand until the jello is fully firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh fruit juices like orange or pineapple instead of water for the jello. If you want a creamier texture, use whipped cream instead of cream cheese. Additionally, for a healthier twist, opt for sugar-free jello and low-fat cream cheese. This salad is a delightful addition to holiday meals, similar to Passover Fruit And Nut Kugel(Dairy).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light dessert after a heavy meal. For a festive touch, garnish with mint leaves or additional fruit slices. This dish is versatile enough to complement vegetarian recipes and can be enjoyed during any season.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad can be served chilled directly from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the jello may change upon thawing. If the mixture becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese And Pear Salad contains roughly 402 calories, with 6g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 pears instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pears can be used. Just make sure they are ripe and sliced thinly to blend well with the jello mixture. You may need to adjust the sweetness depending on the ripeness of the pears.
How long does it take for the jello to set?
Typically, jello takes about 4 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. However, if you add fruit, it may take a little longer. It's best to prepare it a day in advance for optimal results.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure it's covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
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).