Eda Meissner'S Congealed Salad
A colorful, sweet and savory congealed salad with pineapple, cheese, nuts, and whipped cream, perfect for entertaining or festive occasions, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple and set aside the juice.
- Add the Knox gelatine to the pineapple juice and allow to soften.
- Add sugar to the drained pineapple and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Pour the hot pineapple mixture into the softened gelatine and stir well; let it cool.
- Once cooled, add the chopped nuts and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Fold in the whipped cream gently until well combined.
- Grease an 8 x 8-inch Pyrex dish with mayonnaise.
- Pour the salad mixture into the dish and chill well until congealed.
- Optionally, top with chopped maraschino cherries for color before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider adding diced celery or bell peppers for extra crunch. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the whipping cream with Greek yogurt. Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved in the pineapple juice to avoid lumps. This congealed salad pairs beautifully with American recipes that feature heavier meats, making it a refreshing side dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this congealed salad as a side dish during holidays or family gatherings. It pairs well with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert. For a festive touch, add chopped maraschino cherries on top before serving. It also complements dishes like Coventry Cheese Ball, creating a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. To serve leftovers, simply scoop out the desired amount and enjoy cold. If the salad has become too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eda Meissner'S Congealed Salad contains roughly 296 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 21g 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 use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but make sure to extract the juice and adjust the gelatin accordingly, as fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can prevent the gelatin from setting properly. Cooking the fresh pineapple briefly can help deactivate these enzymes.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the gelatin with agar-agar and use coconut cream or a plant-based whipped topping instead of whipping cream. Ensure the cheese is a dairy-free alternative and adjust the sugar to taste.
How do I prevent the salad from separating?
To prevent separation, allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly before adding the whipped cream and other ingredients. Mixing gently and ensuring all components are well incorporated will also help maintain a consistent texture throughout.
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).