Delicious Salad
A light, creamy salad with a delightful mix of sweet cherries, pineapple, and cheese, perfect for hot days or as a refreshing dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese with the juice from the maraschino cherries.
- Chop all but 4 of the cherries and add them to the mixture.
- Mix well, but do not stir or beat hard.
- To serve, layer lettuce on an individual plate, then add a pineapple slice.
- Heap the cheese mixture in the center and top with a cherry.
- Alternatively, serve as a dessert by draining crushed pineapple and adding it to the cheese instead of sliced pineapple.
- Serve very cold in sherbet glasses with whipped cream and a cherry.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh cherries or strawberries for a different flavor. If you want a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. This salad is versatile and pairs well with a Mixed Vegetable Salad (A Burmese Vegetable Tray, Known As Assay-Tana) for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a refreshing starter or a light dessert. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream and can be accompanied by a light beverage like iced tea. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This dish can also be a beautiful addition to a brunch table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese mixture as it may become grainy when thawed. If you need to reheat the dish, serve it cold as intended, or allow it to come to room temperature before serving if it has been chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Salad contains roughly 177 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just layer it with the fruits and lettuce right before serving to maintain freshness. However, avoid adding the whipped cream until just before serving to keep it fluffy.
What kind of lettuce works best for this salad?
Butter or romaine lettuce works beautifully for this salad, providing a nice crunch and a mild flavor that complements the sweet cheese mixture. Avoid strong-flavored greens like arugula, as they may overpower the dish.
Can I add other fruits to the salad?
Absolutely! You can include fruits like diced peaches, berries, or even mandarin oranges for a burst of flavor. Just ensure that the fruits you choose complement the sweetness of the cream cheese and cherries.
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).