Creamy Lime Salad

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 16 Cuisine: American

Creamy Lime Salad offers a refreshing blend of citrus and creamy textures, perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks. The tangy lime flavor combined with pineapple, cottage cheese, and crunchy nuts makes it a delightful side dish that appeals to a variety of tastes and complements many main courses.

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Ingredients

  • 6 oz. lime jello package
  • 1 can evaporated milk
  • 8 oz. crushed pineapple and juice
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 c. cream-style cottage cheese
  • 1 c. broken nut meats
  • 1 c. celery, finely chopped
  • 1 c. mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 c. boiling water

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the lime jello in boiling water.
  2. Cool slightly, then add the evaporated milk.
  3. Chill until the mixture is thick but not set.
  4. Stir in crushed pineapple with juice, lemon juice, cottage cheese, broken nut meats, and chopped celery.
  5. Add mayonnaise and mix well.
  6. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also replace the crushed pineapple with diced peaches or pears if preferred. Ensure to dissolve the jello completely in boiling water for a smoother texture. This recipe is great for summer gatherings, as it is a refreshing addition to any table. For a different flavor profile, try using orange jello instead of lime.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy lime salad as a light appetizer or side dish at barbecues and picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh green salad or the Broccoli-Lima Bean Casserole. Guests will appreciate its unique flavors and creamy texture, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become slightly more solid as it chills, so stir well before serving. It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the cottage cheese may change upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Creamy Lime Salad contains roughly 258 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).

258 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 14.5g 19% DV
Carbs 30.8g 11% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 15.1g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 251.6mg 11% DV
Potassium 207.9mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 1.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 63.1mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 8.3mg 9% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 138.3mg 11% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

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, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just ensure that it is covered well to maintain freshness. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings. Just give it a good stir before serving to re-integrate the ingredients.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with an equal amount of whole milk mixed with a bit of cream to achieve a similar richness. Alternatively, using unsweetened almond milk can work, but it may slightly alter the flavor. Just avoid using flavored non-dairy milk for the best results.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this creamy lime salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. It features cottage cheese and mayonnaise, which are both vegetarian-friendly. However, if you are preparing it for strict vegetarians, ensure the mayonnaise is egg-free or opt for a plant-based alternative.

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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