David'S Dump Salad

Prep: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A creamy, fruity Jello salad combining cottage cheese, whipped topping, and citrus flavors, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or light dessert options for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups cream-style cottage cheese
  • 1 quart whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 large package orange pineapple Jello (3 oz.)
  • 1 can drained pineapple (13 1/2 oz.)
  • 1 can drained mandarin oranges (11 oz.)

Instructions

  1. Beat cottage cheese and whipped topping until well blended.
  2. Add Jello mix and stir until combined.
  3. Gently fold in drained pineapple and mandarin oranges.
  4. Pour into mold or serving dish and chill until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, ensure the cottage cheese is well blended before adding the whipped topping. You can substitute low-fat or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, and feel free to experiment with different flavored Jello to customize the taste. If you prefer a fruitier version, consider adding chopped strawberries or blueberries for extra flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vibrant salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light dessert option after a hearty meal. Consider garnishing with mint leaves or additional fruit on top for an appealing presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best served cold and will maintain its texture if kept chilled. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping may separate upon thawing, affecting the dish's consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of David'S Dump Salad contains roughly 396 calories, with 16g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 396 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.

396 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.3g 33% DV
Total Fat 17g 22% DV
Carbs 45.6g 17% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 33.5g 67% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 441.3mg 19% DV
Potassium 322.6mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 21.9mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 69mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 18.6mg 21% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 173.6mg 13% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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. Prepare it and store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the fruit and topping.

What can I substitute for whipped topping?

You can use homemade whipped cream as a substitute for whipped topping. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form. This will add a richer flavor and a more natural ingredient profile, making it a great alternative.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always check the ingredients of the Jello, as some brands may use gelatin derived from animal sources. Opt for vegetarian Jello if needed.

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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