Dessert Salad
A refreshing and creamy dessert salad combining tart lemon jello, sweet cherries, crunchy pecans, and pineapple, perfect for parties, potlucks, or a light summer treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lemon jello and sugar in boiling water.
- Cool until slightly thickened.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the jello mixture and Cool Whip; beat until thoroughly mixed.
- Fold in chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, and crushed pineapple.
- Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the jello mixture. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or whipped topping. For added crunch, try using walnuts instead of pecans. Ensure the jello is not overly thick before mixing; otherwise, it may not combine well with the cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert salad as a refreshing finish to a summer meal or alongside grilled dishes. It pairs beautifully with Baked Sole or can be enjoyed as a light snack. Garnish with additional maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an appealing presentation. Consider serving it at potlucks or family gatherings for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some texture over time, but it will still taste delicious. Do not freeze, as the ingredients may separate upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dessert Salad contains roughly 309 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dessert salad in advance?
Yes, this dessert salad is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day before serving and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a firmer texture, making it easier to serve. Just ensure it's well covered to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for maraschino cherries?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute maraschino cherries with fresh or frozen berries, such as strawberries or blueberries. Diced peaches or mandarin oranges can also work well, adding a different sweetness and color to the salad. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness of the overall dish accordingly.
Is this dessert salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dessert salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or fish products. It is made with common vegetarian ingredients like cream cheese, jello, and fruits. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, try using non-dairy cream cheese and a plant-based jello substitute.
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).