Ethel Salad
Ethel Salad is a colorful, layered gelatin dessert with fruity and creamy flavors, perfect for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings seeking a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve lime jello in 1 cup boiling water.
- Add marshmallows to the lime jello mixture.
- Cover and let cool.
- Add crushed pineapple to the lime jello mixture and set aside.
- Mix cream cheese, whipping cream, and salad dressing; whip together until smooth.
- Add the whipped mixture to the cooled lime jello mixture.
- Pour the combined mixture into a shallow pan to set.
- When set, dissolve orange jello in 1 cup boiling water.
- Cool the orange jello and then pour over the first layer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant presentation, consider adding diced fruit like mandarin oranges or cherries to the jello layers. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Additionally, using a flavored whipped topping can enhance the taste. Remember to let each layer set properly before adding the next for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ethel Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at gatherings or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a sweet contrast to savory dishes like Broccoli-Mushroom-Cauliflower Casserole. For added flair, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the integrity of the jello layers, avoid stacking or pressing down on the salad. If you need to reheat it, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, but it's best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ethel Salad contains roughly 679 calories, with 10g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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, Ethel Salad can be made a day in advance. Prepare the layers and store them in the refrigerator. Just ensure you cover it well to prevent any odors from affecting the flavor. This makes it a convenient dish for parties or potlucks.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will keep the consistency creamy while reducing calories, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
How do I prevent the layers from mixing?
To prevent the layers from mixing, ensure that each layer is fully set before adding the next. Allow the jello to cool to room temperature before pouring it over the previous layer, and chill in the refrigerator until firm. This will create distinct layers in your Ethel Salad.
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).