Fattening Salad

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A sweet, creamy fruit salad combining colorful fruits, marshmallows, and whipped cream for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large can fruit cocktail
  • 1 large can Mandarin oranges
  • 1 can pineapple tidbits
  • 1 jar red cherries
  • 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 small carton whipped cream or Cool Whip
  • 1/2 bag colored miniature marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Drain all the canned fruit thoroughly.
  2. Add softened cream cheese to the mixed fruit and gently stir to combine.
  3. Fold in the whipped cream or Cool Whip and mini marshmallows.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, preferably made a day in advance.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, you can use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. If you want to reduce sweetness, consider using fresh fruit instead of canned options. To enhance flavor, a splash of vanilla extract can be added. Make sure to drain the canned fruits well to avoid excess liquid, which can make the salad watery.

Serving Suggestions

This Fattening Salad is perfect for potlucks or as a sweet side dish at barbecues. Serve it chilled in a large bowl or individual cups for a fun presentation. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like grilled meats or a cheese platter, making it a versatile addition to any gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can lose some texture over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to serve it later, you can refresh it by adding a bit more whipped cream before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fattening Salad contains roughly 223 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value).

223 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.6g 9% DV
Total Fat 13.8g 18% DV
Carbs 22.2g 8% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 17.7g 35% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 153mg 7% DV
Potassium 275.6mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 42.3mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 173.6mcg 19% DV
Vitamin C 11.3mg 13% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 94.9mg 7% DV
Iron 1.9mg 11% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 different fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits. Fresh berries, diced apples, or even bananas can work well. Just remember to adjust the sweetness based on the fruits you choose.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by using vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream as substitutes. Ensure that all fruit options are free from any animal products, and you'll have a delicious vegan treat.

How can I make this salad more festive for a party?

To make it more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut or chopped nuts on top. You can also use colorful serving dishes or garnish with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant presentation.

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).

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