Creamy Pineapple-Lime Salad
A refreshing, creamy fruit salad with pineapple, cherries, and peaches, flavored with lime gelatin and whipped cream, perfect for summer gatherings and light desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lime flavored gelatin in boiling water.
- Drain crushed pineapple well, reserving the syrup.
- Add 1/2 cup of pineapple syrup to the gelatin mixture.
- Chill until very thick, about 1 1/2 hours, until a spoon leaves a definite impression when drawn through.
- Fold in crushed pineapple, cottage cheese, whipped cream, chopped maraschino cherries, and chopped peaches.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese and a sugar-free gelatin mix. If you can't find lime-flavored gelatin, lemon or orange can work as substitutes, adding a different but delightful twist. Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess liquid, which can make the salad too runny. This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy pineapple-lime salad as a refreshing side at picnics or potlucks, or enjoy it as a light dessert. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or alongside other salads, making it a versatile dish for any meal. For a fun twist, try it as a topping for pancakes or yogurt, or incorporate it into a summer brunch spread alongside American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some of its texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can re-chill it before serving, but avoid freezing, as dairy and gelatin do not freeze well together.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Pineapple-Lime Salad contains roughly 182 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 4g 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 pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice. Fresh pineapple will give a more vibrant flavor to the salad, though the texture may vary slightly compared to using canned. Just remember to adjust the syrup quantity accordingly.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
This salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the gelatin you use is certified gluten-free. Most brands of gelatin are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure. The other ingredients, like cottage cheese and whipped cream, are typically gluten-free as well.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the whipped cream?
Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping as a substitute for whipped cream. This will keep the salad creamy while making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet. Just ensure that the alternative you choose complements the flavors 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).