Easy Cranberry Salad("Yum-Yum")
A refreshing and sweet cranberry salad with crisp apples, fluffy marshmallows, and crunchy nuts, finished with whipped cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks, this chilled dessert offers a delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors with a creamy texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind cranberries and apples; add mini marshmallows and 1 1/2 cups sugar.
- Mix well; let stand.
- Beat whipped cream; add chopped nuts to the whipped cream.
- Combine the whipped cream mixture with the fruit and marshmallow mixture.
- Freeze in serving size containers until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using different types of apples like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. You can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. If you want to lighten the dish, use Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream. Also, make sure to chop the nuts finely for better distribution in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad is delightful as a refreshing dessert or side dish during holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Green Bean Bake With Onion for a festive meal. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a light snack. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprig of mint for visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry salad in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last for up to a month. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. If you've frozen it in individual portions, they can be thawed easily one at a time for quick access.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cranberry Salad("Yum-Yum") contains roughly 1166 calories, with 16g protein, 207g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 608mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
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 or two in advance. Just ensure it is properly sealed and stored in the freezer. The flavors will meld nicely, making it even more delicious when served.
What type of nuts work best in this salad?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are great choices as they add a nice crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, you can omit them or use seeds like sunflower seeds as a substitute.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of packaged ones?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they will need to be cooked or sweetened more since they are tart. Blending them with sugar and letting them sit for a while can help balance the flavors.
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).