Encore Cherry Salad
A vibrant cherry salad featuring raspberry and lemon Jell-O, cream cheese, Cool Whip, and pecans, perfect for gatherings and fruit lover desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve raspberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water and stir in cherry pie filling.
- Pour the raspberry Jell-O mixture into a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish and chill until set.
- Dissolve lemon Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Beat together cream cheese and mayonnaise, then gradually add the lemon Jell-O mixture.
- Stir in pineapple and fold in Cool Whip.
- Pour the lemon Jell-O mixture over the set raspberry Jell-O layer and sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- Chill until ready to serve.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. You can also add fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries for added flavor and nutrition. If you want a nut-free version, omit the chopped pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful salad is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, pairing well with dishes like Multiple Choice Ham Casserole or Region Three Treats. For added indulgence, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Pumpkin Bread With Crumb Topping for dessert. Garnish with fresh mint for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy upon thawing. To serve, simply cut into squares straight from the fridge, as this salad is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Encore Cherry Salad contains roughly 381 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 fresh cherries can add a nice touch, they won't provide the same sweetness and consistency as cherry pie filling. If you prefer fresh fruit, combine them with some sugar and a little cornstarch to mimic the filling's texture.
How long does this salad need to chill?
The salad should chill for at least 4 hours or until fully set. If you prepare it the night before, it will give the flavors more time to meld, making it even more delicious when served.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead of time! Prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other odors from the fridge.
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).