Dump Cherry Salad
A sweet, creamy cherry salad bursting with fruit flavors and crunchy pecans, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings for a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, condensed milk, chopped pecans, marshmallows, and Cool Whip.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the Cool Whip. If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds. When mixing, ensure all ingredients are well blended to prevent clumping, which helps achieve a smoother texture similar to popular American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Dump Cherry Salad as a dessert at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with the Cookie Raisin Puffs for a sweet spread. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with additional chopped pecans or a sprig of mint. This dish is also perfect alongside grilled meats for a contrasting flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become slightly watery over time, so give it a good stir before serving. It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the Cool Whip and fruit may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dump Cherry Salad contains roughly 905 calories, with 13g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 11g 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 use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
While you can substitute fresh cherries, the texture and sweetness will differ. Cherry pie filling is thick and sweet, providing a unique flavor. If using fresh cherries, consider adding a bit of sugar and cornstarch to mimic the filling's consistency.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color, mix in diced fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or mandarin oranges. These fruits not only enhance the visual appeal but also add different flavors that complement the cherry and pineapple. Keep in mind that this will alter the overall taste.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Dump Cherry Salad is entirely vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or animal by-products. However, if you're concerned about specific ingredients, ensure your canned products, like the pie filling and Cool Whip, are verified vegetarian.
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).